An excavation and ground disturbance permit controls all activities that break the ground surface on a construction site. This includes mechanical and hand excavation, piling, ground anchoring, and driving posts. The permit ensures that underground services have been identified, safe digging methods are specified, and the work is properly supervised. This talk explains the permit process and the responsibilities of everyone involved.
Key Hazards
Striking underground electricity cables, gas mains, or water services
Trench collapse due to excavation proceeding without adequate support
Work starting before underground service locations have been confirmed
Permit conditions not communicated to the operatives carrying out the dig
Control Measures
Obtain a signed excavation permit before any ground disturbance activity begins on site.
Confirm that up-to-date utility records have been obtained and a CAT and Genny survey completed.
Specify the safe digging method on the permit — hand dig, mechanical dig, or vacuum excavation.
Mark the extent of the permitted dig area on the ground using spray paint or marker posts.
Brief all operatives and machine drivers on the permit conditions, cable locations, and dig limits.
Display the permit at the work location where it is visible to all persons involved in the excavation.
Ensure the permit is signed off and closed by the issuer when the work is complete or at shift end.
Review and reissue the permit if the scope, location, or depth of excavation changes.
Do not proceed with any ground disturbance if the permit conditions cannot be fully met.
Remember
A signed excavation permit is required before any activity that breaks the ground surface
Utility records and a CAT and Genny survey must be completed before the permit is issued
The safe digging method must be specified on the permit for each area of excavation
All operatives and machine drivers must be briefed on the permit conditions before starting
Display the permit at the work location so it is visible to everyone involved in the dig
Do not proceed with any ground disturbance if the permit conditions cannot be fully satisfied
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · HSG47 (Avoiding Danger from Underground Services) · Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974