What is a common cause of cave-in deaths?

Suffocation or crushing is a common cause of cave-in deaths primarily due to the nature of the hazard associated with excavations or trench work. When soil collapses, it can bury individuals rapidly, leading to asphyxiation or physical trauma from the weight of the soil. In a cave-in scenario, the pressure exerted by the surrounding material can obstruct airways and block escape routes, making it difficult for an individual to breathe or move. This highlights the critical importance of safety measures, including proper sloping, shoring, or the use of protective systems to prevent cave-ins and protect workers in excavated areas.

This context emphasizes the severity of cave-ins as a workplace hazard, underlying the necessity for both training and adherence to safety regulations designed to ensure the well-being of those working in environments susceptible to such risks.