Final answer:
The depth at which an excavation needs attention from a registered professional engineer depends on various factors such as soil type and nearby structures. Generally, if the excavation is deeper than 5 feet (or 10 feet in some cases) and there is a risk of instability or collapse, it requires the attention of a registered professional engineer.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the field of engineering, the depth at which an excavation needs attention from a registered professional engineer depends on various factors such as the type of soil, the stability of the excavation walls, and the presence of nearby structures. Generally, if the excavation is deeper than 5 feet and there is a risk of instability or collapse, it requires the attention of a registered professional engineer.
For example, if the soil in the excavation site is cohesive (such as clay) and the excavation is deeper than 5 feet, a registered professional engineer should assess the stability of the walls and design appropriate support systems if required. On the other hand, if the soil is non-cohesive (such as sand) and the excavation is deeper than 10 feet, it would also need attention from a registered professional engineer.
The specific depth requirements may vary depending on local building codes and regulations, so it is important to consult the relevant authorities in your area for the precise guidelines.