EXC/Support Systems/TBT-EXC-023
Excavation Inspection and Competent Person Duties
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Excavation Inspection and Competent Person Duties
CDM 2015 requires all excavations to be inspected by a competent person before use, at the start of every shift, and after any event likely to affect stability such as heavy rain, frost, or nearby vibration. The competent person must have the knowledge, training, and experience to identify dangerous ground conditions and specify the appropriate support measures. Inspection reports must be written and kept on site. Failing to inspect excavations is a common cause of collapse incidents.
Key Hazards
Undetected ground deterioration between shifts leading to sudden trench collapse
Incompetent inspections failing to identify warning signs of instability
Missing or incomplete inspection records leaving no evidence of compliance
Continuing work in deteriorated excavations because inspections were not carried out
Control Measures
- Appoint a named competent person to inspect all excavations on the project.
- Inspect every excavation at the start of each shift before any person enters the trench.
- Carry out additional inspections after heavy rain, frost, flooding, vibration, or material falls.
- Record every inspection in writing including the date, time, findings, and any actions required.
- Check the condition of all support systems including shoring, sheet piles, and trench boxes.
- Inspect the ground surface around the excavation for tension cracks, water seepage, and surcharge.
- Verify that access and egress provisions remain adequate and ladders are correctly positioned.
- Stop work and evacuate the excavation if any signs of instability are found during inspection.
- Keep all inspection records on site and available for review by the HSE or client at any time.
Remember
- Every excavation must be inspected by a competent person at the start of each shift without exception.
- The competent person must have the training and experience to identify dangerous ground conditions.
- Additional inspections are required after any event that could affect stability including rainfall.
- Written inspection records are a legal requirement and must be kept on site at all times.
- Tension cracks near the edge, water seepage, and bulging trench walls are all signs of imminent collapse.
- If conditions have deteriorated since the last inspection, evacuate the excavation and reassess.
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 (Schedule 4) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · BS 6031 (Code of Practice for Earthworks)
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