Service Delivery 2 Trench Collapse

Aim To introduce students to the difficulties faced at a trench collapse incident.

Learning Outcomes At the end of the session students will be able to: State the influences which effect an excavated face Identify the types of equipment likely to be required for a trench collapse incident Understand the operational considerations.

Influences on an excavated face Depth of excavation Loading at ground level Weather and climatic conditions Vibration from nearby heavy plant Insufficient piling and bracing.

Operational considerations Firefighters must be aware of the dangers of further collapse Consider how to clear the trench without causing further collapse What specialist equipment is available What specialist advice is available.

Specialist equipment Sheer-legs and timber for shoring

Specialist equipment Sheer-legs and timber for shoring Lifting equipment

Specialist equipment Sheer-legs and timber for shoring Lifting equipment Lighting

Specialist equipment Sheer-legs and timber for shoring Lifting equipment Lighting Special stretcher.

Type of stretcher likely to used at a trench collapse incident.

Specialist equipment Sheer-legs and timber for shoring Lifting equipment Lighting Special stretcher Thermal imaging camera.

Operational difficulties The conditions within the trench will be cramped, dirty, dangerous and very changeable.

Operational difficulties The conditions within the trench will be cramped, dirty, dangerous and very changeable Casualty care will be very important, victim maybe suffering major injuries Rescue work will be slow and arduous.

Points to be considered Keep all people at a safe distance Keep the number of personnel in the trench to a minimum Maintain good access and egress.

Communications It is vital that clear communications are established and maintained Consider the possibility of a flammable atmosphere, and use intrinsically safe equipment Establish a clear and concise evacuation signal.

Confirmation Assessments will be based on this lesson and the corresponding study note Learning Outcomes State the influences which effect an excavated face Identify the types of equipment likely to be required for a trench collapse incident Understand the operational considerations.

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