Final answer:
The rule of thumb for distance between excavations is at least 5 times the width side-to-side and 7-8 times the depth according to older guidelines, and as much as 8 diameters side-to-side and 15 diameters deep according to newer suggestions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rule of thumb when excavating a trench in proximity to another excavation is to maintain a horizontal distance that is safe to prevent any hazards that could arise from the two excavations affecting each other.
An older guideline suggested maintaining a distance of at least 5 times the width of the excavation side-to-side and 7-8 times the depth of the excavation deep.
However, more recent suggestions indicate a safer distance might be as much as 8 diameters side-to-side and 15 diameters deep, ensuring stability and safety around the excavation site.
The complete question is: What is the rule of thumb applied when excavating a trench in proximity to another excavation? (Is the horizontal distance from the trench to the excavation no less than what?) is: