Whether Dave has enough experience to be an excavation competent person depends on whether he meets the definition of a "competent person" as defined by OSHA 1, 2. A competent person is someone who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them 1, 2.

To determine if Dave is qualified, consider the following:

• Hazard Identification: Does Dave have the skills and knowledge to recognize potential hazards related to excavation work? 1, 2
• Corrective Actions: Is Dave authorized and capable of taking prompt corrective measures to eliminate hazards? 1, 2
• Experience and Training: Does Dave possess sufficient experience and training in excavation safety practices? 1, 2

To classify soil, a competent person needs to perform visual and manual analysis [1]. Visual analysis involves observing the soil that is excavated and the soil in the sides of the excavation. The manual analysis involves quantitative and qualitative properties of the soil [2].

Ultimately, the decision to designate Dave as a competent person rests on a thorough evaluation of his abilities and knowledge in relation to the specific excavation tasks and potential hazards involved.