Excavation & Trench Hazard & Control – Toolbox Talk
Definitions
Excavation
Any man-made removal of soil to create a cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth’s surface. It can be a hole of any shape – even one-sided. An example of a one-sided excavation would be a hillside that has been dug into.
Trench
An excavation that is deeper than it is wide.
Excavation & Trenches Hazards.
- The most hazards are (Cave-ins) soil collapse
- Slip trip and fall
- Equipment fell in to the excavation area
- Accident from underground utilities.
- Falling object while in the trench
- Flood and drowning
- Atmospheric hazard [Oxygen deficiency, Oxygen Enrichment, Toxic chemical]
- Fire and explosion
How to Controls Hazards
- Cross Check the excavation PTW.
- Ensure Knowledge or Elimination of under ground and over head hazards.
- Determine which Protective system Shall be applied
- [Sloping/Benching/Shoring/Shielding/Barricading]
- Consult the Risk Assessment (RA)
- Ensure a Safe Means of Access/Egress.
- Traffic Controlled.
- Ensure Signs & Barricading in place.
- Atmospheric Test required if Excavation more than 1.2m depth. [SAFE ACCESS & BARRICADE]
- Materials and Equipment etc. to be Placed a Minimum 2m From the edge.
- Inspection by Competent Person.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Security of Nearest Structures / Buildings.
- Illumination, Blinker light of Excavation during Dark Hours.
Confined Spaces
- Trenches and excavations, deeper than 1.2 meter is considered Confined Space
- Trenches and excavations can also trap air and create hazardous atmospheres.
- A permit required prior to enter the trench or excavation
- Confined Space Training & authorization are required before entry into the trench or excavation is allowed
visit our in-depth article on excavation and confined spaces.
