What is the purpose of erosion control devices during trench work?

• A. Control dust and sediment during trench work
• B. Increase soil density
• C. Mark pipe locations
• D. Speed up excavation

Answer: (A)

When you trench, the soil is left exposed and can easily be moved by wind or rain into streets, storm drains, or nearby waterways, creating sediment and dust problems. Erosion control devices are put in place to keep that soil from leaving the work area and to reduce dust and sediment during trenching. They slow and trap runoff, stabilize disturbed soil, and protect water quality and storm-water systems. This environmental protection role is why the option describing controlling dust and sediment during trench work is the best fit. Marking pipe locations or speeding up excavation aren’t the purposes of these devices, and increasing soil density isn’t achieved through erosion controls.