Checklist: Safe excavation
It must be in place before you go down into a trench or excavation
Excavations are one of the most dangerous tasks on a construction site because soil that slides can bury a person in seconds. This checklist helps you get the essentials in place before anyone goes down into the trench.
§Before you dig
- 01Has the ground been checked for cables, pipes and conduits?
- 02Do you know the type of soil — firm, soft or loose fill?
- 03Has a plan been laid for bracing or laying out slopes?
- 04Er adgangen ned og op sikret med stige eller rampe?
§While the gutter is open
- 01Keep heavy equipment and storage away from the edge
- 02Make sure that bracing is secure and hasn't moved
- 03Keep an eye on water that can weaken the soil
- 04Never let anyone work alone in a deep excavation
§If you are in doubt
If you are unsure about whether an excavation is safe, stop and ask your foreman or workplace representative. It is always better to spend ten extra minutes than to take a chance with the ground.