Final answer:
It's unsafe and not permissible by regulations to use an excavator bucket to lift workers; appropriate personnel lifting equipment must be used.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, it is not safe or acceptable to use the bucket of an excavator to lift workers in and out of a trench. Excavators are equipped with hydraulic and mechanical lever systems designed for moving materials, not for hoisting people. Lifting a person with an excavator bucket does not provide the necessary safety features or controls that are required for safely lifting humans, such as those found on personnel lifts or hoists designed for carrying workers. Moreover, OSHA regulations strictly prohibit the use of heavy equipment buckets for transporting personnel unless the equipment is specifically designed for that purpose. Using appropriate safety equipment is paramount to ensuring the well-being of the workers on a job site.
The bucket of an excavator can be used as a platform to lift workers if it is equipped with a secure and stable work platform attachment. This attachment provides a stable surface for workers to stand on while being lifted.
It is also crucial to ensure that the excavator is operated by a trained and experienced operator who follows all safety guidelines and regulations.