Excavation & Trench Safety Checklist

Excavations and trenches are deceptively dangerous. A collapse can happen in seconds, and even a shallow trench holds enough soil to crush or suffocate someone. Strict controls and daily checks are essential.

The main hazards

• Collapse — unsupported or unbattered sides giving way
• Falls — people or vehicles falling into the excavation
• Buried services — striking gas, electric, or water lines
• Flooding and water ingress
• Hazardous atmospheres in deep or confined excavations
• Materials and spoil falling back in from the edge

Daily checklist

• Sides supported, battered, or benched as the design requires
• Edge protection and barriers in place
• Spoil stored well back from the edge
• Safe access — ladders or ramps, properly positioned
• Services located and marked before digging
• Inspection by a competent person before each shift

Inspect before every shift

Excavation supports must be inspected at the start of every shift and after any event that could affect stability — rain, vibration, or a knock from plant. The ground changes; yesterday's safe trench may not be safe today.

Record the inspection

Excavation inspections need a written record. A digital check — photographing the supports and edges, flagging any movement — gives you a dated, defensible record at the start of each shift. SiteAudit makes excavation checks quick and keeps the evidence in one place.