Excavation Work Toolbox Talk

Excavation safety is imperative for anyone working in trenches and carrying out any kind of excavation work. There are many risks and hazards. Use this free excavation toolbox talk to identify and address risks for your business and project. You can also view and download 60+ toolbox talks with our free toolbax talks kit.

Excavation safety toolbox talk

Introduction

Trenches are potential killers. The majority of fatal trench accidents occur where the depth is less than 1.5m. A cubic metre of earth can weigh over 1.5 tonnes – which will crush a man.

Main points

Before any digging begins, carry out thorough checks for services.
Plan excavations including shoring requirements, safe access/egress, and more.
Ensure any support/shoring materials are present on site before commencing excavations.

Discussion points

Excavations must be supported/battered back where necessary to prevent collapse.
Use ladders for access/egress – do not climb supports.
Provide edge protection around excavations to protect other workers and the public.
Keep soil heaps, tools, and vehicles back away from the edge of excavations.
Never throw tools/materials into an excavation – always pass hand to hand or lower on a rope.
Wear suitable PPE, including head and foot protection.
Do not jump across excavations – provide suitable bridges where required.
If vehicles are used to fill then position stops to ensure vehicles cannot drive into excavations.
Never adjust/adapt supports/shoring without first getting approval from the person in charge.
Excavations must be inspected before entry, at the start of each shift, and after any destabilising event (including heavy rain).
Excavations must be formally inspected by a competent person at least once every seven days and the results recorded.

THE MESSAGE IS SIMPLE – DON’T DIG YOUR OWN GRAVE!

Name:

Company:

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Person carrying out TBT:

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Date:

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