Pipe laying in open trenches combines the hazards of deep excavation work with heavy manual handling, plant operations at close quarters, and working in confined trench conditions. Workers are exposed to collapse risk, crushing from suspended pipes, and contact with contaminated ground or existing services. This talk covers the specific controls for safe pipe installation in open trench excavations.
Key Hazards
Trench wall collapse burying workers during pipe installation operations
Crushing injuries from pipes swinging or rolling during lowering into the trench
Striking existing underground services while preparing the trench bed for pipe
Back injuries from manual handling of heavy pipe sections and fittings
Control Measures
Ensure trench support systems are fully installed before any operative enters the excavation.
Use mechanical lifting equipment to lower pipe sections into the trench rather than manual methods.
Attach tag lines to all pipes being lowered by machine and never stand beneath a suspended load.
Confirm the location of all existing buried services before excavating or disturbing the trench bed.
Prepare the pipe bedding material to the correct grade and depth before positioning each section.
Maintain safe clearance from the excavator bucket swing radius when working in the trench.
Inspect the trench support before each shift and after any rainfall or ground disturbance event.
Use a banksman to coordinate between the machine operator and operatives working in the trench.
Provide safe access and egress from the trench using ladders positioned within 25 metres of any worker.
Remember
Trench support must be fully in place before anyone enters the excavation for pipe laying
Use mechanical lifting to lower pipes and never stand beneath a suspended pipe section
Confirm the location of all buried services before excavating or disturbing the trench bed
Maintain safe clearance from the excavator swing radius when working inside the trench
Inspect trench support before each shift and after rainfall or any ground disturbance event
Ladders must be positioned within 25 metres of any worker inside the trench at all times
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 · LOLER 1998 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974