What is the required safety distance of a crane working near an excavation site?

The correct answer is that the required safety distance of a crane working near an excavation site is at least 1.5 times the depth of the excavation. This guideline is based on ensuring stability and preventing the possibility of the crane tipping or its load falling into the excavation.

The rationale for this distance is primarily to maintain a safe buffer that takes into account the potential for soil erosion or collapse around the edges of the excavation, which can be exacerbated by the weight of the crane and its load. The 1.5 times factor helps to mitigate risks by providing a sufficient distance to protect both personnel and equipment and to ensure that the operational area remains secure against any ground movement or instability that might occur during lifting operations.

This safety measure is aligned with best practices in the industry for maintaining a safe working environment near excavations.