Many UK construction sites are built on made ground consisting of demolition rubble, industrial waste, domestic refuse, or imported fill of unknown origin. This material can contain asbestos, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and ground gas. Disturbing made ground without proper assessment and controls can expose workers to serious health hazards. This talk covers the risks of working in made ground and the precautions needed.
Key Hazards
Asbestos fibre release from demolition rubble encountered in made ground
Ground gas migration including methane and carbon dioxide from buried waste
Skin contact with chemically contaminated soil containing heavy metals
Unstable ground conditions causing excavation collapse in poorly compacted fill
Control Measures
Review the ground investigation report and contamination assessment before any excavation.
Monitor the atmosphere for ground gas including methane, CO2, and volatile organic compounds.
Wear the PPE specified in the COSHH assessment when handling visually contaminated material.
Stop work and report immediately if unexpected materials such as drums, tanks, or odours are found.
Segregate potentially contaminated material from clean excavated spoil on site.
Arrange laboratory testing of suspect material before deciding on disposal or reuse.
Ensure excavation support accounts for the variable and unpredictable nature of fill materials.
Brief all operatives on the expected ground conditions and the specific contaminants identified.
Dispose of contaminated material at a licensed receiving facility with the correct waste classification.
Remember
Review the ground investigation and contamination reports before excavating in made ground
Monitor the atmosphere for ground gas including methane and CO2 during all excavation work
Stop work and report immediately if unexpected materials, drums, or strong odours are found
Segregate potentially contaminated material from clean spoil for separate assessment
Wear the PPE specified in the COSHH assessment when handling any suspect material