Australia Model Code of Practice: Excavation Work 5.1c: 5.1 Support trenches of any depth where there is a risk of engulfment

Where a worker entering a trench could be engulfed, the Code recommends that shoring, benching or battering be used whatever the depth of the trench. The Code states this as a recommendation separate from the 1.5 metre trigger in WHS Regulation 306, so a shallow trench carrying an engulfment risk should still have its sides supported.