Excavation: energy sources and direct controls

Excavation work combines ground collapse exposure, plant movement and buried services.

High-energy check

Treat excavations deeper than 1.2 metres as high energy for collapse. A cubic metre of soil weighs over a tonne.

Run the gravity calculator for this task Run the kinetic calculator for this task

Trigger checks

Mechanical
Moving parts, tools, tension, rotation or stored mechanical force.
Sound
Harmful noise or impulse sound.
Confined spaces (deep excavations)
Atmosphere, not structure, is the main killer in confined spaces. Oxygen depletion and toxic gas give no visible warning, and would-be rescuers become casualties without a plan.

Direct controls to verify

Ticks stay on this screen only. Nothing is saved or sent.

Excavation support or battering matches the depth and ground.
Safe access and egress exist within reach of every person.
Spoil and plant are kept back from the edge.
Services are located and marked before digging.
Excavation is inspected before each shift entry.
Stop if water, ground change or unexpected services appear.

For your SPA or pre-start

State the depth and support method, the access and egress, the spoil and plant standoff, the service drawings checked and the permit status.

Limitations: This tool supports planning and verification only. It does not replace competent risk assessment, legal duties, employer procedures, client requirements or competent supervision.