Excavation > 1.2 m

Purpose

To help prevent serious workplace injuries or fatalities by informing employees of the coordination techniques and the hazards associated with excavations greater than 1.2 m (4 ft) where a worker must enter.

Hazards

• Exposure to hazardous atmosphere (P2:S2:F4=R8)
• Slip / Trip (P2:S4:F2=R8)
• Collapse of excavation slope or wall (P2:S1:F2=R6)
• Struck by mechanized equipment (P2:S3:F4=R9)
• Contact with energized underground utilities (P2:S2:F4=R8)

Prerequisites

Review and understand the PCML Excavation Checklist.

Precautions

All excavations must be clearly identified either by the current activity of workers and machinery or by clear visual identification (e.g. signage at all approaches, raised marking tape, or guardrails/fencing) where work is not actively taking place.

Procedure

1. Identify with Contractors where excavations will be required.
2. At least 3 business days prior to first excavation on site contact BC One Call (1-800-474-6886) and request a Ticket for underground services.
3. Provide information from the BC One Call Ticket to all Contractors involved in excavation.
4. Coordinate with all Contractors to minimize encroachment or overlap of activities once excavation commences.
5. Inspect excavation activities to ensure work is proceeding in accordance with Regulation

Control Measures

Regularly inspect and make use of checklist to ensure compliance on part of Contractor until excavation is filled.

Emergency Procedure

In the event of an incident (injury to worker, damage to equipment, any unplanned event)

1. Stop Work
2. All workers who can safely do so must exit the excavation
3. Follow the Incident Notification Protocol / Emergency Procedures for the site

References

• B.C. OHS Regulation Sections 20.78 to 20.95
• PCML H&S Program Excavation Checklist