1. Excavation Hazards & Controls

2. Hazards

3. Collapse of sides zType of soil structure is an important factor zWhat might appear to be a safe soil structure can change dramatically with changes in the weather

4. Hazards - Physical zMaterials falling onto people working in the excavation zPeople & vehicles falling into excavation zPeople being struck by plant zUndermining nearby structures zContact with underground services zAccess to excavation

5. Hazards - Chemical zFumes from vehicles/plant (C0 2 ) zMethane/other gases zContaminated land/previous use?

6. Hazards - Biological zLeptospirosis zPrevious use e.g. hospitals zDrains/sewers zRubbish and waste

7. Control Measures Supported by timbering and props Poling boards extend above edge to act as toeboards Guard rails to prevent falls Tied ladder provides safe access and egress Exposed services are supported

8. Collapse of Sides zBatter sides and ends zSupport with timber, sheeting or proprietary support systems zUse 1.2m as a guide for support, but assess conditions at all times zEven work in shallow trenches can be dangerous, especially if bending or kneeling

9. Materials Falling into Excavations zDo not store spoil or other materials close to excavation – they could fall in or cause sides to collapse zProvide guard rails and toe boards where necessary zWear hard hat in excavations

10. People & Vehicles Falling into Excavations zProvide guard rails & toe boards (2m) zUse stop blocks to prevent vehicles over- running zKeep vehicles away from excavations wherever necessary

11. People Being Struck by Plant zKeep workers separate from moving plant where possible zPlant operators should be trained and competent zHigh visibility PPE

12. Undermining Nearby Structures zMake sure excavations do not affect footings of scaffolds or foundations of nearby structures zProvide temporary support for structure if necessary zSurveys of foundations and advice of a structural engineer may be necessary

13. Avoiding Underground Services zLook around for obvious signs of underground services e.g. drains, patching of surface etc. zUse cable locators to trace any services. Mark the ground accordingly zUse service plan zDig trial holes by hand zHand dig if in doubt (particularly for plastic cables which cannot be detected) zHave emergency procedures/contact in place

14. Safe Access & Egress zCreate steps in excavation zProvide good ladder access or other safe ways of getting in and out of the excavation

15. Fumes zDo not site petrol or diesel engined equipment such as generators or compressors in, or near the edge of, an excavation unless fumes can be ducted away or area can be ventilated

16. Protecting the Public zBarrier off all excavations in public places to prevent falls zNRSWA zWhere people may get onto the site out of hours, backfill or cover excavations to reduce risks

17. Supervision zA competent person must supervise the installation, alteration or removal of excavation support zPeople working in excavations should be given clear instructions on how to work safely

18. Inspections zCompetent person must inspect: yAt start of shift; yAfter any event likely to have affected strength or stability of excavation; and yAfter any accidental fall of rock, earth and other material. zA written report should be made after most inspections zStop work if inspection shows excavation to be unsafe