- Complete a full ground investigation before starting shaft sinking work.
- Treat every shaft over 1.5 metres deep as a confined space entry.
- Install continuous gas monitoring with audible alarms at working depth.
- Maintain safe access with fixed ladders or a personnel hoist at all times.
- Use a crane or winch to lower all tools and materials into the shaft.
- Install edge protection and toe boards around the full shaft perimeter.
- Brief all operatives on the emergency rescue plan before entry.
- Monitor ground and support conditions throughout the sinking operation.
- Ensure a top man is stationed at the shaft opening at all times.
- Keep a shaft entry log recording all personnel entering and leaving.
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- DON'T enter a shaft without confirmed atmospheric monitoring results.
- DON'T throw or drop any items into the shaft — use controlled lowering.
- DON'T work in a shaft without a rescue plan and trained rescue team.
- DON'T remove or alter shaft support without engineering approval.
- DON'T allow unauthorised persons near the shaft opening.
- DON'T ignore water ingress — report and manage dewatering immediately.
- DON'T work below without overhead protection from falling objects.
- DON'T assume ground conditions are uniform — they change with depth.
- DON'T leave a shaft unattended without barriers and warning signage.
- DON'T bypass the permit to enter system for any reason.
See also: Tunnelling Safety Awareness | Confined Space Entry Procedures
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