What should be done if contaminated soil is present while excavating?

When contaminated soil is present during excavation, it is crucial to adhere to established protocols for handling hazardous materials. This practice ensures the safety of workers, the surrounding environment, and public health. Handling contaminated soil involves specific actions, such as stopping work in the affected area, conducting necessary assessments, and implementing remediation processes according to regulatory standards.

Following protocols typically includes sampling and testing of the soil to determine the extent of contamination, proper storage and disposal of the contaminated material, and potentially notifying environmental authorities. Ignoring the presence of contaminated soil or simply continuing with excavation without addressing the situation can lead to further environmental damage and legal ramifications.

The other options suggest a lack of appropriate action or disregard for established safety protocols, which can pose significant risks. Thus, treating contaminated areas per established protocols is the correct path to ensure all necessary precautions and legal requirements are adhered to appropriately.