• Appoint a named competent person for every excavation on the project.
• Inspect the excavation before each shift and record the findings in writing.
• Assess ground conditions, water ingress, and the need for support systems.
• Specify the support method — shoring, battering, or benching — based on conditions.
• Inspect after heavy rainfall, vibration from plant, and after any material fall.
• Retain written inspection reports on site for a minimum of 3 months.
• Control access into the excavation — only authorised, briefed personnel may enter.
• Stop work and evacuate if ground movement, water ingress, or cracking is observed.
• Brief all excavation workers on the hazards and controls before they enter.
• Review the assessment whenever the depth increases or conditions change.

• DON'T allow excavation work without a named competent person appointed.
• DON'T enter an excavation that has not been inspected at the start of the shift.
• DON'T skip the written inspection report — verbal assessments are not compliant.
• DON'T continue work if the competent person identifies unsafe conditions.
• DON'T appoint someone without the knowledge and experience to assess excavation risks.
• DON'T delay re-inspection after rainfall, vibration, or falls of material.
• DON'T allow anyone to enter the excavation without the competent person's authorisation.
• DON'T assume the excavation is safe because it was stable yesterday.
• DON'T overrule the competent person's decision to stop work.
• DON'T discard inspection reports before the required 3-month retention period.

See also: Excavation Safety Awareness | Excavation Inspection Requirements