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Moving or removing earth or other materials with tools or equipment is generally classed as excavation work. Excavations are used in a number of different situations, such as during the construction of buildings, building retaining walls, and installing underground utilities. It is important that when carrying out excavations that underground utilities are always identified first.

Common types of excavation

Here are a few types of excavation you’ll often come across in residential construction:

Cut & Fill
Also known as stripping excavation, this method is used to clear and level large areas. It involves removing unstable material like rock, sand, or topsoil so you’ve got a safe surface to work on.

Pile Holes
These are usually dug with a backhoe, drill, or hydro excavator. Always cover and barricade pile holes as soon as possible, and make sure only those involved in the work are nearby. Keep an eye on any water buildup and pump it out if needed.

Trial Holes
This is when you dig small holes to locate underground services before starting bigger works. Just make sure those holes are covered or barricaded when not in use — it’s an easy way to prevent someone from getting hurt.

Trenching
Trenching is used to install or replace underground utilities, build retaining walls, or check what’s under the surface. Trenches are long, narrow, and deeper than they are wide — which means they can be risky. The safest method depends on the depth, soil type, and what’s around it, so always take care and plan it out properly.

Large-scale excavations often need heavy machinery, so make sure you’ve got good traffic management controls in place too.

Managing the risk

Excavation work is classed as high risk under CDM 2015, no matter how shallow or deep. If there’s any chance of collapse, you need to complete a thorough Risk Assessment and Method Statement.

It’s also a good idea to check out the HSE guide to excavations, they outline what’s expected on-site.

Covering or bridging

When you’re covering holes or bridging shallow trenches, make sure whatever you’re using is strong enough to handle the weight, things like heavy-duty plywood or steel plates designed for that job.

• Fully cover holes and make sure the covers can’t move.
• Keep walkways clear of slip or trip hazards.
• Watch for water hazards after rain, they can cause sidewall collapse and even drowning risks.
  

Barriers and fencing

Keeping your site secure is a must. Think about how long the excavation will be open, if it’s left overnight, use plating, fencing, or backfill to make it safe.

Things like cones, plastic mesh, or lightweight hurdles aren’t enough to protect people from excavation risks. Safety fencing is the way to go, especially for long-term or unattended worksites.

Know your competency level

Under CDM 2015, you must be competent for the work you’re doing. For excavation work, this means having the right skills, knowledge, training, and experience to carry out the task safely.

• All excavation work requires proper planning, risk assessment, and appropriate controls, regardless of depth.
• More complex excavations such as those near structures, in unstable ground, or in confined spaces will need additional expertise. You may need input from a temporary works designer, structural engineer, or other specialists.
• The level of competency required depends on the specific risks involved, not just the depth of the excavation.

Make sure you understand what’s required before starting any excavation work. If in doubt, get advice from a competent person.

Need a hand?

If  you ever need a hand getting started or want more info, get in touch with the friendly HazardCo team, we’re always here to help keep you and your crew safe.