Examination Practice Questions And

Illinois Trench Rescue Technician Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the minimum slope requirement for a trench less than 20 feet

deep in Type C soil?

A. 1:1

B. 1.5:1

C. 1.25:1

D. 2:1

Rationale: In Type C soil, OSHA specifies a minimum slope of 1.25:1 (H:V) for trenches less than 20 feet deep.

• Which soil type is considered the most unstable in trench operations?
• Type A 1 / 4

• Type B
• Type C
• Cohesive

Rationale: Type C soil is granular and has the least cohesive strength,

making it the most unstable and prone to collapse.

• What is the primary purpose of a trench box?
• To prevent water accumulation
• To provide escape ladders
• To protect workers from cave-ins
• To support shoring materials

Rationale: Trench boxes are designed to protect personnel from soil

collapse while working inside a trench.

• How often must a competent person inspect a trench?
• Once a day
• Before each shift and after any hazard-increasing event
• Once a week
• Only after heavy rain

Rationale: OSHA requires inspections before each shift and whenever

conditions change that could increase hazards.

• What is the maximum allowable trench depth without protective

systems?

• 4 feet 2 / 4

• 5 feet
• 6 feet
• 8 feet

Rationale: OSHA allows trenches less than 5 feet deep to be unprotected if

the excavation is stable.

• Which type of personal protective equipment is essential for trench

rescue?

• Hearing protection only
• Helmet, gloves, boots, and eye protection
• Respirator only
• High-visibility vest only

Rationale: Comprehensive PPE including helmet, gloves, boots, and eye

protection is required due to potential hazards in trench operations.

• What is the purpose of benching in trench operations?
• To create a workspace
• To direct water flow
• To reduce soil collapse risk by creating steps in the trench wall
• To support heavy equipment

Rationale: Benching reduces collapse risk by cutting steps into the trench

wall, stabilizing soil.

• How often should trench rescue teams practice rescue scenarios?
• Once a year 3 / 4

• Quarterly or as determined by local standards
• Once a month
• Only during emergencies

Rationale: Regular practice ensures readiness and familiarity with

equipment and procedures.

• Which of the following is a common hazard in trench rescue operations?
• Confined space only
• Heat stress only
• Cave-ins, hazardous atmospheres, and water accumulation
• Electrical storms only

Rationale: Trench rescues pose multiple hazards including soil collapse,

hazardous atmospheres, and water hazards.

• What is the correct ratio for a Type B soil slope less than 20 feet deep?

A. 1:1

B. 1:1.5

C. 1.25:1

D. 2:1

Rationale: OSHA requires Type B soils to be sloped 1:1.5 (H:V) for trenches less than 20 feet deep.

• Which of the following indicates a potential trench collapse?
• Smooth soil walls
• Cracks or fissures in soil near the trench edge
• / 4