Trench / Excavation Inspection

Has a 'Permit to Dig' been completed?

Has the need for a Trench Protection system been considered?

Is there trench support available / in place onsite? (shoring, shielding, sloping, benching)

Has a ground type / condition assessment been carried out?

Is there a way to enter / exit the trench safely? e.g. lader every 6m

Has the site Foreman approved the trench for entry?

Is there protection of open trenches? e.g. plates, fencing etc.

If required, is de-watering equipment available?

Is a Confined Space permit required?

Excavations, adjacent areas, and protective systems inspected before start of work?

Surface obstacles removed or if not possible, supported e.g. posts, poles, trees

Loose rock or soil that could pose a hazard by falling or rolling into the excavation have been removed or made safe

Appropriate PPE is worn by all employees in and around the trench

Spoil, materials, and equipment set back minimum required distance from the edge of the excavation

Unattended excavations are adequately protected

All lifting and electrical equipment is certified and current

There is a system in place on site to prevent employees working under suspended loads

Precautions taken to protect employees from the accumulation of water

System in place to check water removal equipment at regular intervals

Surface water / runoff diverted or controlled to prevent accumulation in the trench

Atmosphere has been tested and proven safe by a competent gas detector operator

System in place for continuous testing to ensure atmosphere remains safe

Material and / or equipment for support systems has been selected based on ground conditions, trench depth and expected loads

Materials and equipment used for protective systems inspected and in good condition

Materials and equipment not in good condition have been removed from service

Damaged materials and equipment used for protective systems inspected after repairs and before being placed back into service

Appropriate protective systems can be put in place without exposing employees to hazards of cave-ins, collapses, or threat of being stuck by materials or equipment

Excavations below the level of the base of the footing supported, approved by an Engineer

Excavations of material to a level of no greater than 600mm below the bottom of the support system and only if the system is designed to support the loads calculated for the full depth

Shield system placed to prevent lateral movement

Employees are prohibited from remaining in shield system during vertical movement

System in place for moving and removal of protective structures meets manufacturers specifications / recommendations

Trench is safe to enter

Any other comments