What is the maximum allowable lateral travel distance to access a means of egress in a trench greater than 4 feet deep?

In the context of trench safety, regulations dictate that for trenches exceeding 4 feet in depth, workers must have access to a means of egress within specified lateral travel distances to ensure quick escape in case of an emergency. The maximum allowable lateral travel distance to access a means of egress is 25 feet. This requirement is put in place to minimize the risk to workers who might be in danger of trench collapse or other hazards.

The rationale behind this specification is to enhance safety and ensure that workers can quickly reach a safe area without excessive delay. This distance has been established based on safety considerations and is widely recognized in regulations to protect workers in potentially hazardous environments.

Other distances listed in the options either exceed the regulatory standards or do not align with best safety practices in trenching operations. Thus, maintaining a maximum lateral travel distance of 25 feet aligns with safety regulations and promotes a safer work environment for individuals working in deep trenches.