EXC/General/TBT-EXC-007

Excavation Permits and Controls

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An excavation permit controls all ground-breaking activities to prevent service strikes and collapses.
The permit must be issued before any mechanical or hand excavation work commences.
It confirms that service drawings have been reviewed and a CAT and Genny scan completed.
The permit defines excavation boundaries, depth, support requirements, and access arrangements.
A competent person must approve the permit — typically the site manager or engineer.
Permits must be renewed daily or when conditions change, whichever comes first.
CDM 2015 and HSG47 set out excavation control requirements for all ground-breaking work.
The permit must be displayed at the excavation and all operatives briefed on its conditions.
Permit conditions include monitoring requirements, inspection frequency, and emergency procedures.
All excavations over 1.2 metres deep require formal support unless safely battered.

Prevent service strikes	Permits ensure underground services are identified before digging begins.
Avoid collapse	Formal controls require support systems appropriate to depth and ground.
Legal compliance	CDM and HSG47 require documented controls before any excavation work.
Clear accountability	Permits define who is responsible for inspection, monitoring, and safety.

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See also: Excavation Safety Awareness | CAT and Genny Safe Use

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