Excavation Emergency Procedures
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Excavation Emergency Procedures
Excavation emergencies including trench collapse, flooding, and gas ingress can develop rapidly and without warning. A buried worker can suffocate within minutes under displaced soil. Having a clear emergency procedure and the right rescue equipment on site can mean the difference between life and death. This talk covers what to do in an excavation emergency.
- Develop a site-specific excavation emergency plan before any excavation work begins.
- Ensure rescue equipment including a ladder, throw line, and breathing apparatus is available at the excavation.
- Brief all operatives on the emergency procedure and their roles before entering any excavation.
- Call 999 immediately for any trench collapse, flooding, or casualty trapped in an excavation.
- Do not enter a collapsed trench to rescue a casualty unless trained and equipped to do so safely.
- Locate and mark emergency access routes for the fire service and ambulance before work starts.
- Ensure a trained first aider is present on site at all times during excavation activities.
- Practise the excavation emergency procedure before deep or high-risk excavations commence.
- Keep the emergency contact numbers for utility companies displayed at the excavation.
If a trench collapses, call 999 immediately. Do not enter the trench. Direct the fire service to the exact location. Keep bystanders well clear. If the casualty is visible and accessible without entering, provide reassurance and keep their airway clear of loose soil.
- Call 999 immediately for any trench collapse, flooding, or trapped person
- Do not enter a collapsed trench to rescue someone unless you are trained and equipped
- Rescue equipment must be available at the excavation before anyone enters it
- Brief every operative on the emergency procedure before they enter the excavation
- Know the emergency access route so emergency services can reach the excavation quickly
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