Excavation-Risk Assessment

Key Elements:

1. Potential Hazards Considered:
   • Falls from height
   • Falling materials
   • Lifting operations
   • Electricity hazards
   • Manual handling
   • COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
   • Adverse weather conditions
   • Deep excavation
   • Slips/trips
   • Environmental risks
2. Persons at Risk:
   • Employees
   • Subcontractors
   • Visitors
   • Public
3. Mandatory Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Requirements:
   • Safety induction
   • Tool box talks
   • Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
   • Safe workplace
   • Work permit
   • Proper tools and equipment
   • Proper supervision
   • Barricades and warning signs
4. PPE Requirements:
   • Safety helmets
   • Safety boots
   • Goggles/spectacles
   • Gloves
   • Masks
   • Overalls
   • Ear plugs/defenders
   • Respiratory/breathing apparatus
5. Risk Levels and Control Measures:
   • Striking Underground Services: Obtain permissions, check drawings, and follow work permit system.
   • Collapse of Excavation Edges: Provide support systems, place excavated soil away from edges, and use stop blocks/barriers.
   • Substandard Shoring System: Use standard shoring systems.
   • Structure/Scaffold Collapse: Provide adequate support systems and erect scaffolding away from excavation.
   • Persons Falling into Excavation: Use barricades, signage, safe access/egress, and guardrails.
   • Moving Vehicles/Equipment: Use licensed operators, audible alarms, speed limits, and barriers.
   • Flooding: Monitor shoring systems, provide drainage and de-watering systems, and stop work during rain.
   • Insufficient Oxygen: Follow work permit system, monitor oxygen levels, and use breathing apparatus.
   • Adverse Weather: Provide adequate lighting, and stop work during poor visibility or adverse conditions.
   • Heavy Noise/Dust: Maintain equipment, use soundproofing, water for dust suppression, and appropriate PPE.
   • Vehicle/Plant Sinking: Dispose of excavated soil properly, provide de-watering systems, and mark hazard areas.
   • Substandard Electric Connections: Use standard electric supplies, route cables correctly, and inspect daily.
   • Fire Risks: Proper refueling arrangements, closed containers, and no smoking/naked lights in refueling areas.

Ongoing Process:
Risk assessment is a continuous process and must be communicated to workers before starting the job. It is regularly reviewed to adapt to new activities and potential risks, ensuring a safe working environment.