Chapter 25 – Excavation and Trenching
This chapter emphasizes safe practices during excavation and trenching to prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
Key points include:
- Competent Person (CP) Responsibilities:
- Develops excavation plans and conducts hazard analyses.
- Performs soil classification and determines appropriate protective systems.
- Ensures all safety systems are in place and functioning correctly.
- Protective Systems:
- Includes sloping, benching, shoring, and shielding to prevent cave-ins.
- Addresses hazards such as falling materials, water accumulation, and hazardous atmospheres.
- Excavation Planning and Execution:
- Identify and protect underground utilities.
- Manage excavated materials safely.
- Ensure stability of adjacent structures.
- Access, Egress, and Perimeter Safety:
- Provide safe entry and exit for personnel.
- Implement barriers to prevent falls or accidental entry of equipment into excavations.
- Conduct regular inspections to identify and mitigate hazards.
Following these guidelines ensures a safe, compliant, and well-managed excavation site.