What is usually the first and most common problem encountered with a trench collapse?

The first and most common problem encountered with a trench collapse is the victims' reduced ability to breathe. When a trench collapses, it can lead to the victim being buried under soil, which significantly restricts airflow. The pressure of the surrounding earth can compress the chest, making it difficult for the victim to expand their lungs and breathe effectively. This situation can quickly lead to asphyxiation if the victim is not rescued promptly, making it a critical concern for first responders.

While physical injuries to the victims can certainly occur as a result of the collapse, the immediate threat to life is often the compromised airway. Exposure to hazardous materials may also be a serious risk, depending on the location of the trench, but it is not as universally applicable as the issue of breathing. Panic among the victims is a psychological response that may complicate rescue efforts but, like hazardous materials, does not represent the immediate physical danger presented by a trench collapse.