Doc.

Ref MS-MAC-1031
Revision 0

Date 23 Nov 2018

Method Statement
For
Trench excavation
PROJECT:

Prepared by Engineer HSE Manager SPM

Name Muhammad Irfan Ansar Mumtaz Naeem Tariq

COMMENTS APPROVAL SIGNATURE

SAFETY

Contractor
 Method statement for trench excavation

Doc no: MS-MAC-1031 Rev:0

METHOD STATEMENT
TO : Mahindra Susten Company

From : Mashael Asser Contracting Est.

Title :

Purpose of Submission: X for approval for implementation &

information

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Table of contents

1.0 Purpose
2.0 Scope
3.0 Planning and preparation
3.1 Consultation
3.2 Planning
3.3 Planning by Mashael Asser Contracting Est.
3.4 Planning by contractor
3.5 Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
3.6 Hierarchy of control measure
3.7 Preparation
3.8 Emergency and rescue procedure

4.0 Work system and control measure

4.1 Prevention of collapse or failure of trenches and open excavations.
4.2 Design of engineering controls
4.3 Shoring
4.3.1 Removal of shoring support
4.4 Benching and battering excavation walls
4.5 Inspection of support system
4.6 Security of excavation
4.6.1 Fall prevention
4.6.2 Prevention of drowning
4.7 Underground services
4.8 Excavation adjacent to buildings or structures
4.9 Protection against rising, irruption or inrush of water or material
4.10 Material and loads above and near excavations
4.11 Protection from falling objects
4.12 Electrical hazards
4.12.1 Underground electrical hazards
4.12.2 Overhead power lines
4.13 Manual handling
4.14 Access
4.14.1 Lighting
4.14.2 Ramps
4.14.3 Ladders

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4.14.4 Scaffolding
4.14.5 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders
4.15 Works near traffic or moving plant
4.16 Noise
5.0 Inspection and maintenance of plant and equipment
5.1 Routine inspection
5.2 Repairs and maintenance
5.3 Reporting defects
5.4 Log book and inspection check list
6.0 Training and instruction
7.0 Personal protective equipment
7.1 Provision of PPE
7.1.1 Safety helmets
7.1.2 Eye protection
7.1.3 Personal hearing protection
7.1.4 High visibility garments/safety reflective vests
7.1.5 Safety gloves
7.2 Maintenance and use of PPE
8.0 Occupational health and safety
9.0 Risk assessment
10.0 Job safety analysis

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 Method statement for trench excavation

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1.0 Purpose
This method statement provides guidance to prevent injury to persons
engaged in excavation works.
2.0 Scope
Planning, preparation conduct and Method of excavation work.

3.0 Planning and preparation

3.1 Consultation
The Mashael Asser Contracting Est., the contractor doing the work,
employers, employees and their representatives will consult with each and
determine the provision of all safeguards. The consultation process will be
used during the planning and preparation stages to determine safe
systems of work based on the assessment of the risks. Structural or
geotechnical engineers will be involved in the consultation process when
appropriate.
The consultation process will at least cover the following:
a) Nature and condition of the ground or working environment.
b) Nature of the work and other activities that may affect safety
c) Static and dynamic loads near excavation
d) Interaction with other trades
e) Workplace access
f) Management of surrounding vehicular traffic and ground vibration
g) Work force safety

h) Type of equipment used for excavation

i) The provision of appropriate amenities, which will depend on the
type of work space.
j) Compliance with all HSE regulations

3.2 Planning
Planning and preparation will be the first essential step in ensuring that
work is done safely. Planning and preparation will involve consultation
with all relevant persons engaged in the work and will include hazard
identification, risk assessment and risk control processes. Where
appropriate, the advice of a geotechnical engineer will be sought before
starting excavation work. The Mashael Asser Contracting Est. and the

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contractor in their capacity as employers will:

1. Provide such information, instruction, training and supervision as
may be necessary to ensure the health and safety of his
employees; and
2. Provide or maintain means of access to and egress from the work
place safe and without risks.

3.3 Planning by Mashael Asser Contracting Est.

The Mashael Asser Contracting Est. will plan for the work to be done
safely. The Mashael Asser Contracting Est. will ensure that a site specific
occupational health and safety management plan is prepared and
documented for each place of work where excavation is to be carried out,
before the excavation work commences. This plan will be developed in
consultations undertaken with the contractor/s and their employees or
representatives. The plan will include a documented work method
statement, provided by the contractor, describing how the work is to be
done safely. The health and safety management plan will be monitored to
ensure that work is carried out according to that plan and that the plan is
effective. The plan will be maintained and up to date during the course of
the excavation works. Before excavation work starts, the Mashael Asser
Contracting Est. in consultation with the contractor doing the work will at
least consider:
a) An assessment of the risks involved in carrying out the work.
b) The most appropriate method to prevent any risk of injury.
c) An assessment of the ground conditions and working environment
d) Providing suitable and safe access to and from the work place
including the work area.
e) The area of the excavation work will be clearly defined by barricades
and warning signs.
f) Where necessary the exact location of the work will be clearly
marked.
g) The identification and marking of the location of any above ground,
underground or overhead services
h) That the work does not affect the structural integrity of adjoining
buildings or structures, roads, footpaths.
i) Electrical safety, including the location of underground and
aboveground service cables and nearby overhead power lines and
providing systems of work which comply HSE regulations.
j) That all persons carrying out the work will receive appropriate
supervision, training and instruction.
k) Security of excavation during work and when left unattended.
l) Establishment of emergency and rescue procedures in the event of
an emergency.

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3.4 Planning by contractor

The contractor doing the work has an obligation under HSE regulations to
provide and maintain a workplace that is safe and without risks to health
for their employees in relation to those matters over which he has control.

In addition to consultation with the Mashael Asser Contracting Est. in the

overall job planning, the contractor will at least consider:
a) An assessment of the risks in carrying out the work
b) The most appropriate methods of preventing the risk of injury.
c) Providing a documented safe work method statement describing
how the work will be done safely. This safe work method statement
will take into account an assessment of the risk involved in carrying
out the work.
d) Providing suitable and safe access to and from the work area at all
times.
e) Preventing persons entering a work area where there is a risk of
injury.
f) An assessment of manual handling tasks which could cause back
strains and other injuries and providing systems of work which
comply with the provisions of HSE regulations.
g) That the location of overhead and underground services, i.e.
electricity and telecommunication cables, are identified and clearly
marked.
h) Electrical safety, including the location of underground electrical
service cables and nearby overhead power lines and providing
systems of work which comply with HSE regulations
i) The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) Eg: Safety
footwear, eye, coveralls, high visibility jackets, hearing protection,
safety helmets, gum boots, gloves, disposable clothing etc.
j) That all persons carrying out the work are provided with
appropriate training and instruction.
k) That supervision is provided by a competent person.
l) Establishment of emergency and rescue procedures in the event of
an emergency.

3.5 Hazard identification, risk assessment and control

A hazard identification risk assessment and control process will be carried
out by the contractor in consultation with the Mashael Asser Contracting
Est. to determine if persons are at risk. Safe systems of work will then be
put into place to control the risk. The identification of the hazards

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associated with excavation work, the risk assessment and the risk control
measures will be documented.
The process of hazard identification, risk assessment and control is made
up of the following steps:
1. Identification of hazard
2. Assess the risk(s) arising from the hazards.
3. Use appropriate control measures to eliminate or reduce the
risk(s).
4. Monitor and review the control measures to ensure continual
safety.
After identifying the hazards involved in carrying out the work the Mashael
Asser Contracting Est. in consultation with the contractor will assess the
health and safety risks and determine what type of safeguards or systems of
work will be implemented to ensure the health and safety of all persons on
site. This will always include eliminating exposure of persons to the hazard.

3.6 Hierarchy of control measure

The following hierarchy of control measures is listed in terms of levels.
selecting the highest level possible to develop each control measure.

Level 1: Eliminate the hazard:

• For example, choose different Excavation method.

Level 2: Minimize the risk by:

• substituting the system of work or plant (with something safer).
• modifying the system of work or plant (to make it safer).
• isolating the hazard (eg. introduce a restrictive work area).
• introducing engineering control (eg. dust control).

Level 3: Other controls:

• adopting administrative controls such as hazard warning signs and
specific training and work instructions.
• using personal protective equipment (eg. eye, respiratory and hearing
protection).

The control measures at Level 1 (eliminate the hazard) give the best results
and will be adopted. The measures at Levels 2 (minimize the risk) and 3 (other
controls) are less effective and they require more frequent reviews of the
hazards and systems of work. In some situations a combination of control
measures may need to be used.
The control measures recommended by the contractor will be considered by
the Mashael Asser Contracting Est. as part of the health and safety

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management plan. Any new control measures will be evaluated to ensure

that they are effective and safe and that new hazards are not created
(directly or indirectly) by them.

3.7 Preparation
When preparing for the commencement of work the Mashael Asser
Contracting Est. and the contractor doing the work will ensure that the
workplace is safe based on the health and safety management plan. They will
also check to ensure that all controls identified by the risk assessment have
been put in place and that no new hazards exist.
Preparation will also at least include:
a) An assessment of climatic/environmental conditions.
b) Access to and from the workplace.
c) Specific instructions for employees.
d) That plant and equipment is suitable for the intended use and
inspected by a third party before use and is properly
maintained.
e) Personal protective equipment.
f) That the location of underground, above ground and overhead
services are identified and clearly marked.
g) Emergency and rescue procedures in the event of an accident,
injury or other emergency, including the means of protect any
other persons in the vicinity.

3.8 Emergency and rescue procedure

The contractor will ensure that, in the event of an emergency, adequate
arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of workers and other
persons on site. The emergency may result from an accident or injury,
landslip or other potentially dangerous occurrence. Natural disaster including
electrical storms, floods, plant or machinery fire etc. may also present hazards
to the working operations.

The contractor will plan for such matters and ensure that appropriate control
measures are in place. The risk assessment will take into account the
following factors:
a) Nature of hazard and possible emergencies;
b) Size and location of place of work;
c) Number and mobility of persons at the workplace; and
d) Location of nearest emergency services.
Control measures may include:
a) Development and communication of a warning system.
b) Development and communication of safe and rapid
evacuation procedures, including injured persons.

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c) Having trained personnel to oversee evacuation and rescue

procedures until emergency authorities arrive.
d) Appropriate medical treatment and evacuation of injured
persons.
e) Shutting down of work, including plant and electrical
equipment.
f) Provision of firefighting equipment at appropriate locations.
g) Display of evacuation procedures in appropriate location(s)

4.0 Work system and control measure

The Mashael Asser Contracting Est. and contractor have an obligation under HSE
regulations to provide and maintain a workplace that is safe and without risks to
health for their employees in relation to those matters over which they have
control. Control measures to prevent persons being injured during excavation
work will be provided and maintained as part of a safe system of work.

The system of work and control measures selected will be determined by

individual job factors identified in the
Consultation and risk assessment process. The following hazards are commonly
associated with excavation work and will be considered by the risk assessment
process:
a) The fall or dislodgement of earth and rock
b) The instability of the excavation or any adjoining structure
c) The inrush or seepage of water
d) Unplanned contact with utility services eg, electricity
e) The placement of excavated material
f) Falls into excavations
g) The movement and positioning of heavy plant and equipment affecting the
excavation
h) Ground vibration affecting the stability of the excavation
i) Vehicle movement
j) Excessive noise from the operation of machinery and plant
k) Manual handling injuries
l) Changes to excavation conditions.

4.1 Prevention of collapse or failure of trenches and open excavations.

A risk assessment will be conducted to determine which controls will be
implemented to prevent persons being injured by collapse or failure of all or
part of a trench or open excavation. It will consider at least the following:

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a) The depth of the excavation;

b) The nature of the strata - sand, clay, shale, floaters, etc including their likely
behaviour upon exposure to the elements;
c) Fractures or faults in rock.
d) The presence of moisture or water;
e) The possibility of exposure to wet weather and water from other sources;
f) Any load close to the edge or in the zone of influence of the excavation;
g) Vibration;
h) The exposure time;
i) Any previous disturbance of the ground, eg previous excavations; and
adjoining buildings or structures

Removal of soil from an excavation causes unbalanced soil stresses which reduce the capacity of
the excavation to support itself. There may be additional geotechnical engineering issues that will
be considered. Accordingly where the risk assessment identifies the risk of an unstable condition,
the following measures will be considered before starting excavation work:

a) Seeking advice from appropriately qualified engineers,

b) Carrying out a geotechnical analysis,
c) Engaging a competent person to supervise the progress of the excavation
work.

Shoring systems, benching and battering are engineering issues that involve both structural design
and soil mechanics. The use of adequate shoring, benching and battering is essential to control the
risk of a collapse or failure of a trench or open excavation.

4.2 Design of engineering controls

Design specifications for engineering controls such as shoring support
structures, benching or battering will be prepared by an appropriately
qualified person in accordance with relevant standards and codes. In
developing specifications, at least the following factors will be considered:
a) The size and strength of the component members of the shoring
b) Existing and changing ground conditions
c) The loads and types of ground or soil conditions to be shored
d) Static loads near excavation, eg. spoil pile, buildings and structures
e) Dynamic loads near excavation, eg. traffic and excavation equipment
f) Ground vibration, eg. heavy traffic, mobile plant, and pile driving.
g) Difficulties or risks that other services may pose ie overhead power lines,
existing or proposed underground services
h) Working environment such as exposure to dust, noise, water,
i) That systems of work are in accordance with any requirements of the HSE
regulations
j) Location of utility services

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k) Safety during installation and removal.

4.3 Shoring
Where necessary, all trenches and excavations will be adequately shored or
supported to prevent a fall or dislodgement of earth, rock or other material
forming the side of or adjacent to, any excavation work from burying, trapping or
striking a person that is in the excavation. Where such a risk also exists for those
installing supports, other appropriate control measures will be in place to
ensure the safety of persons entering the excavation. A shoring system will not
be required if, having regard to the nature and slope of the side of the excavation
and other relevant circumstances there is no reasonable likelihood that earth,
rocks other material will fall or dislodge from a height of more than1.5m and
bury, trap or strike a person that is in the excavation. The risk assessment process
will be used to identify unstable conditions and the risks involved. Shoring the
face of an excavation will proceed as the work of excavation progresses. Where a
mechanical digger is used, the risk assessment will be used to determine whether
any part of the trench may be left unsupported. Shoring may include any suitable
system of temporary supports and sheeting material used to maintain the
stability of the sides of an excavation. The installation and removal of shoring will
take place from outside an excavation.

4.3.1 Removal of shoring support

When removing shoring, the support system will be extracted /
dismantled in the reverse order of its installation. Persons performing the
work in the excavation will not work outside the protection of the ground
support system.

4.4 Benching and battering excavation walls

Both benching and battering of excavation walls are methods of work which may
be used to minimize the risk of the soil or rock slipping onto the excavation.

If battering is implemented, it will commence from the bottom of the excavation.

When benching or battering the walls of an excavation, an angle of repose of 45
degrees will not be exceeded unless certified in writing by a geotechnical
engineer.

4.5 Inspection of support system

Where risks or hazards that create a risk to health and safety of those carrying
out the work are identified, they will be controlled prior to any further work
being carried out. This may require further advice from geotechnical and design
engineers to review the adequacy of the control measures in place. The risk

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assessment will be reviewed at all terms during the excavation works.

The following conditions will be considered or monitored:

a) Shoring becoming unstable
b) Shoring components not secure or failing
c) Angle of batter remains sufficient to prevent collapse
d) Premature removal of shoring
e) Workers in excavations venturing outside the confines of shoring, benching or
battering
f) Cracks appearing near the edge of an excavation
g) Excavated and other material being placed within the zone of influence of the
excavation (h) machinery operating within the zone of influence of
excavations causing weight and vibration influences
h) Surface soil falling into the excavation
i) Water seeping into excavations from its side walls or base
j) Changes to soil and/or weather conditions
k) Extra loading
l) Ssurface water or run-off entering the excavations or accumulating on
surface near the excavation
m) Inclined bedding planes “dipping” into the excavation
n) Heaving or swelling of the ground at the bottom of the trench
o) Subsidence alongside the excavations
p) Unsafe access or egress
q) Exposure of contaminated ground
r) Undercutting of the excavation

4.6 Security of excavation

A risk assessment will be conducted in order to determine which controls will be
implemented to ensure the security of excavation both during work and when
left unattended.

The control measures implemented will be appropriate and effective for the
hazards and risks of the situation. Consideration will be given to factors such as
how long the excavation will be open, and who may gain access to the
excavation. The following control measures will be considered:

a) Isolating the hazardous area, such as by the use of perimeter fencing,

barricades, screens, barriers, handrails and/or covers, which are capable of
preventing access or preventing the fall of a person
b) Removal or lowering ladders on work site
c) Immobilization of plant to prevent unauthorized use
d) Compliance with relevant HSE requirements.
e) Hazard warning lights, signs, markers or flags

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f) Site security measures, including fencing or use of safety observer(s)

g) Night lighting.

Signs will be erected around the site showing the name and contact telephone
number (including afterhours emergency number) of the Mashael Asser
Contracting Est./contractor emergency numbers.

4.6.1 Fall prevention

A safe system of work and appropriate control measures will be provided
wherever persons are exposed to a risk of falling during excavation work. It is a
HSE requirement to effectively fence all excavations and holes more than 1.2m
deep. It will also be noted that all platforms, open sides of stairways and
stairway landings will be fenced.

In addition to the security measures listed above, the following measures to

prevent falls will be considered:

a) Use of intermediate platforms for deep excavation

b) Provision of a safe means of movement between different levels of the
excavation
c) Provision of an adequate fall arrest system
d) Backfilling as work progresses Control measures will be properly installed and
maintained until the work is completed or until there is no longer any risk of
persons falling into the excavation.

4.6.2 Prevention of drowning

Where, during excavation work, and excavation is likely to collect or retain
water so as to create a hazard to persons in the vicinity, the excavation will be
covered or fenced off.

Control measures will be provided where there is a risk of a person drowning

as a result of a fall into water or other liquid, eg slurry. The following
measures will be considered:
a) Provision of positive means of fall protection such as fencing, handrails and
safety harness
b) Provision of an observer.

4.7 Underground services

Before starting the work, the location of any underground services (eg.
electricity, telecommunication cables, etc) will be identified. Wherever service
plans are available they will be obtained by the Mashael Asser Contracting Est.
and also provided to the contractor and operator carrying out the excavation

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work. The contractor will allow for inaccuracies and the possibility of other
unknown or hidden services.

Further, the Mashael Asser Contracting Est. will arrange for these services to be
clearly marked according to the available plans and on site checks prior to
commencement of work. Services will be exposed at sufficient intervals to
positively identify their location and/or lie. The following are ways of checking for
underground services:

a) Using remote location devices

b) Hand digging, using hand tools with non-conductive handles.

All persons whose work may be affected by an underground service will be advised of the location
of every underground service.

Appropriate control measures will be implemented after consultation with relevant service
providers. These measures may include the protection, support or removal of services to ensure
safety of workers.

4.8 Excavation adjacent to buildings or structures

The contractor will ensure that excavation work which is likely to reduce the
security or stability of any part of any building or structure will not be
commenced or continued unless adequate steps are taken before and during the
progress of the work to prevent danger to any person from collapse of the
building or structure or a part of a building or structure.

In assessing the risk, measures such as the following will be considered before
starting excavation work:

a) Seeking advice from appropriately qualified engineers

b) Undertaking a geotechnical analysis
c) Engaging a competent person to supervise the progress of the excavation
work
d) Underpinning of structures
e) Construction of effective retaining walls
f) Minimizing ground disturbance and vibration by taking into account the
location of machinery, the sequence of work, the impact, severity and scale of
excavation
g) Backfilling as work progresses
h) Evacuation of affected areas.

The contractor will also ensure the stability of vehicular access which might be affected by the work.

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4.9 Protection against rising, irruption or inrush of water or material

The contractor will ensure that where there is risk from rising water or from an
eruption of water or material, the means to enable every person to reach a
position of safety will be provided.

If a risk assessment reveals a risk of rising, irruption or inrush of water or

material, appropriate control measures will be provided. These may include the
following:

a) Provision of exploratory or warning holes where water flows at a reduced rate to

warn of danger
b) Provision of sumps
c) Lowering the water table (eg use of spear pumps)
d) Increasing exit points eg increasing the number of exit ladders
e) Provision of pumps

4.10 Material and loads above and near excavations

To reduce the risk of excavation collapse, excavated or other loose material will
be effectively stored or retained away from the excavation. Excavated material
will be placed outside the zone of influence.

Alternatively the support system will be designed to accommodate such

additional load including ground water pressures, saturated soil conditions and
saturated materials.

Mechanical plant, vehicles, storage of materials or any heavy loads will be

prevented from approaching within or encroaching on the zone of influence of
the excavation unless the support system has been specifically designed for such
loads.

Where the risk assessment has identified a risk of collapse as a result of loads or
materials above or near the excavation, shoring will be in place before any
person enters the excavated area.

The following measures will also be considered before starting excavation work:
a) Controlling access to exclude persons from hazardous areas, eg relocating
means of access
b) Moving and storing loads outside the zone of influence of the excavation
c) Provision of wheel stoppers to limit movement of mobile equipment adjacent
to the excavation
d) Reducing the number of trench shields stored near excavation by pulling
along trench shields and backfilling as the excavation progresses.
e) Securing all loose materials in place. When working on a slope, a risk

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assessment will be conducted to determine the safest side of the excavation to

dump soil and excavated material. This will often be on the lower side of the
slope to reduce the risk of wall collapse or material falling into the excavation.
Site factors will be considered.
4.11 Protection from falling objects
The risk assessment will be used to determine appropriate control measures to
protect persons from accidental falls of objects including tools, plant and other
construction materials.

As far as practicable, loads will not be suspended or travel over a person. The following
control measures will be considered:
a) Fences
b) Hand rails and toe boards
c) Overhead protection
d) Enclosed walkways
e) Safety helmets and other adequate means of protection
f) Provision of safe means of lowering and raising plant, materials, spoil, etc
g) Use of lanyards to secure loose tools
h) Loads will be lifted/suspended within the safe working limits of the machinery load
used.

4.12 Electrical hazards

Specific control measures will be implemented when work is done in the
vicinity of power lines whether they are overhead or underground.
A power line or electrical conductor will always be assumed to be energized or
‘live’, including when a communication cable or wire is encountered.

4.12.1 Underground electrical hazards

A safe system of work will be devised to address electrical hazards associated
with underground services as the following:
a) De-energizing and isolating the cables and obtaining documentary evidence
of the continuing isolation of the power supply before proceeding with the
work
b) A system of lock out and lock out tags
c) Use of electronic surveillance prior to excavation to determine location of
services.
d) Hand digging using tools with non conductive handles
e) Wearing rubber boots and insulating gloves

4.12.2 Overhead power lines

When cranes, excavators, earthmoving machines or similar appliances are
operated near overhead power lines the following provisions will be observed:

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A thorough examination of the approaches and surroundings of the site will be

carried out before taking an appliance to the site or setting it up.

4.13 Manual handling

Manual Handling requires engineers and supervisors to design equipment, tasks
and work environments so that manual handling risks are eliminated or reduced
as far as reasonably practicable.

The contractor will assess and control the risks involved in carrying out manual
handling tasks. This will be done in consultation with employees who are
required to carry out the work.

The contractor will control risks by:

a) Designing or re-designing the manual handling task to eliminate or control the
risk factor. Where re-design is not practicable, the employer will:
b) provide mechanical aids and/or personal protective equipment. Using powered
mechanical equipment to lift and move materials may control manual handling
risks. Lifting equipment will include cranes, forklifts.
c) Providing appropriate training to employees in safe handling techniques. This
training will also include the prevention of manual handling injuries by an
approach based on a hazard identification, risk assessment and control through
job and task design. Employees will receive appropriate training in methods of
manual handling involving team lifting procedures, correct use of the mechanical
aids and PPE.
d) Weights that are manually handled will be minimized. Furthermore persons will
not be required to lift, lower or carry loads above 25kg, unless mechanical
assistance and/or team lifting arrangements are provided to lower the risk of
injury.
e) Where manual handling involves repetitive bending, twisting, over-reaching,
work overhead or where persons have pre existing injuries, these loads will be
further decreased. Often used items such as tools, etc, will be stored at waist
level. Where possible, most commonly used items will be stored between thigh
and chest height.
f) The rotation of work duties will be considered in consultation with employees so
that employees are not subjected to the same task for the whole shift.
g) Ensuring that work areas and passageways are kept clean and clear of debris.
Slippery floors and surfaces and trip hazards will be controlled.

4.14 Access
An assessment of access requirements will take into account the number of
persons using them and any tools and equipment that they may be required to
carry to and from the work site.

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Control measures may include:

a) Proper storage of materials and plant
b) Keeping work areas and passageways clear and free of obstructions
c) Removal of rubbish, including construction waste and excess excavated
material
d) Use of handrails
e) Traffic and plant controls
f) Safety fences and warning signs.

4.14.1 Lighting
Adequate lighting (natural or artificial) will be provided to ensure the
work areas and access ways are well lit. Adequate local lighting will be
provided for detailed work, for dangerous processes and where
machinery is being operated. When artificial lighting is used, including
lighting for night work, the contractor will ensure it does not create
excessive glare or shadows.

4.14.2 Ramps
When access ramps are provided they will not exceed 1:2.7 (20 degrees).
Ramps steeper than 1:8 (7 degrees) will be cleared, grated or have
surfaces which allow adequate foot grip. Where such ramps form part of
an excavation, a risk assessment will be conducted to determine the
maximum safe soil height above the ramp before some sort of soil
support (eg trench shield) is provided. Ramps will be designed and
constructed to effectively withstand any anticipated load that they may
be required to support during use.

4.14.3 Ladders
When ladders are used for access the contractor will provide the following:
a) The ladder will be secured at both top and bottom against
displacement. Ladders will have non-slip feet and whenever
practicable will be set up at an angle of 1:4 (75degrees).
b) A safe and adequately sized landing place when stepping off the
ladder will be provided.
c) The stiles of the ladder will extend at least one meter above the
landing place.
d) Metal or wire reinforced ladders will not be used where there is a risk
of contact with electrical conductor wires(power lines) or of electric
shock. Non- conducting ladders will be used or a clearance of at least
4metres from conductors will be maintained.

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4.14.4 Scaffolding
Scaffolding will be used to provide workers with a safe temporary
work platform. It will be planned, erected, inspected and tagged by
competent persons and will be regularly inspected to ensure there are
no risks to safety and will comply with the requirements of HSE
regulations.

4.14.5 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders

Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders will comply with the
requirements of HSE regulations

4.15 Works near traffic or moving plant

Planning and preparation will also include the development of a vehicle
movement procedure for each worksite. Vehicle movement procedures will
identify the preferred travel paths for vehicles associated with a work site
entering, leaving or crossing the through traffic stream. A vehicle movement
procedure will include persons, moving equipment, plant and vehicle traffic in
the work area and also identify travel paths for trucks at key points on routes
remote from the work site, such as places to turn around, accesses, ramps and
side roads. A vehicle movement procedure will be a documented procedure, a
diagram, combined with or superimposed on a Traffic Control Plan, or may be
verbal information and instructions specific to the particular construction
workplace or site. The risk management process will be used to determine which
is the most appropriate.

A risk assessment will be conducted to determine what type of safeguards or

systems of work that be implemented on the site and will include eliminating
exposure of persons to moving plant. Vehicle movement procedures will be
developed based on the risk assessment and will be developed each time the
conditions on the site change in a way that may affect the health and safety of
persons. The risk assessment will consider at least the following:
a) Isolating vehicles and plant used in or around the site and work area from
persons on the site or work area, eg. vehicles or persons may be guided
around or past the work area.
b) Securing the area where moving plant is being used eg. fencing, barriers,
barricades, temporary warning or control signs or a combination.
c) Planning the direction that the plant moves so that the visibility of operators
is not restricted. This will also include an assessment of the visibility of plant
and traffic from all areas of the work site.
d) The use of spotters/safety observers to control traffic movement
e) Implementing safe working distances

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f) The use of audible reversing alarms and/or other technologies or other safe
work practices. Note: reversing
g) Aalarms may cause confusion where multiple plant is using the same area and
other systems of work may be required.
h) Minimizing the number of moving plant working at one time. Where multiple
plant is being operated around the work site a competent person will be used
to direct the plant:
i) When operating in close proximity to each other;
j) When reversing;
k) Where persons are on the ground; and
l) In other situations as indicated by the risk assessment.
m) Where construction vehicles or plant enter or leave the work area by public
roads, systems of control and notices will be placed at all entrances and exits
to the work area to protect and warn all persons approaching or in the vicinity
n) Where plant is being operated near persons, near underground or above
ground services (any other workers, soils technicians, surveyors, visitors etc)
o) Designated delivery and turning areas. The movement of delivery vehicles on
construction sites frequently
p) Presents a hazard particularly when reversing, loading and unloading.

q) Procedures will be implemented to warn all persons affected by the potential

hazard. These procedures will include:
r) the requirement for truck drivers to report to a suitably signposted area on
the site;
s) the requirement for a designated worker to act as an observer to ensure all
persons are clear of the reversing vehicle; and a system of communication and
warning to persons near delivery point.

All personnel on site will wear high visibility garments.

4.16 Noise
Noise management provisions will be carried out by the contractor doing the
work and will ensure noise levels from machinery or equipment being used do
not become a risk to hearing or health.

An appropriately qualified person will conduct a noise assessment to determine

the level of noise that employees are exposed to. Where the noise is in excess of
the noise exposure limits, engineering controls will be implemented. Where this
cannot be achieved or work cannot be organized to minimize exposure,
appropriate hearing protection equipment, hearing protectors, will be provided
to all persons in the vicinity of the noise.

The contractor will also ensure compliance with Environmental Protection

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requirements in relation to noise.

The contractors will ensure that all necessary prevention or protection measures
are taken to ensure the health and safety of persons who may be exposed to
excavated material.

Where there is a risk of inhalation of harmful airborne substances such as silica

dust or contact with harmful soil contaminants, the contractor will ensure a safe
system of work.

The risk assessment process will be used to determine the engineering controls,
work practices and site, atmospheric monitoring required.

Appropriate assessment of the exposure levels will be undertaken before

selecting the control measures.

The assessments will consider:

a) Any persons on site, including other contractors or persons working on the
site;
b) Persons conducting the assessment and site remediation, including
subcontract workers;
c) Visitors to the site (for example, couriers); and
d) Site neighbors (as appropriate).

The contractor will also ensure that exposure to nonhazardous substances such
as nuisance dust is at a level not greater than that established by safe exposure
standards. In dry conditions, frequent watering, where practicable, or other
similar methods will be used to reduce nuisance dust that will not exceed
20mg/m3.

5.0 Inspection and maintenance of plant and equipment

A risk assessment will be conducted before operating plant to identify any hazards
that may arise and the control measures to be implemented. The risk assessment will
consider at least the following:
a) That appropriate guards, including roll-over protective devices (ROPS) are fitted
b) That the safe working load is displayed
c) Record of testing, maintenance, servicing and repair
d) The general mechanical/electrical condition of plant, especially any wear or
damage that may affect safe operation
e) Specific controls to prevent entanglement or workers being trapped between
moving parts.

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All plant such as excavators, tractors, etc used for lifting will have their safe working
loads displayed and maintained. If the function or condition of plant represents an
immediate risk to health and safety, operation will cease and the plant will be
withdrawn from use until a risk assessment and appropriate control measures are
implemented.

5.1 Routine inspection

Regular planned inspection and adequate maintenance will be carried out to
ensure safe operation of all plant used on excavation work, whether leased, hired
or owned. Both mechanical and electrical testing will be done. The following
checks will also be carried out:
a) Daily checks: general condition and maintenance of the plant will be checked
daily by the person doing the excavation work.
b) Regular checks: the plant will be inspected by a competent person on a
regular basis, or at least every two weeks.

5.2 Repairs and maintenance

The contractor will ensure the plant repairs will be carried out by a competent
person and in accordance with the designer’s or manufacturer’s requirements.

5.3 Reporting defects

Any defects to equipment will be reported immediately to the person responsible
for maintaining such plant.
Where a defect is likely to pose an immediate risk to health and safety the
equipment or plant will not be used until the defect is rectified.

5.4 Log book and inspection check list

The contractor will keep logbooks and inspection check sheets containing a full
service and repairs history of the equipment.

6.0 Training and instruction

Under HSE regulations employers will provide training, instruction, information and
supervision, as may be necessary, to ensure the health and safety at work of their
employees. This will be provided by a competent person. All persons involved in any
excavation or associated work will:
• be trained to follow systems of work and work practices that enable
them to perform their work in a manner that is safe and without
risks to health, and;
• hold appropriate certificates of competencies where required,
particularly in the operation and use of load shifting equipment.
Only persons who have received training and instruction will carry

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out the work.

The training provided and the instruction given will at least include:
a) Induction training which complies with Construction Safety & HSE regulation
b) The work method to be used for the excavation or associated work and the manual
handling procedures for the work to be carried out, including control measures based on the
risk assessment to prevent injury.
c) The correct use, care and storage in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations where appropriate, of:
d) Personal protective equipment; and
e) Tools and equipment to be used.
f) The use of plant and associated equipment, including electrical safety and
hazardous substances.
g) Procedures to be adopted in the event of accident, injury or other emergency,
including evacuation.

7.0 Personal protective equipment

The use of PPE to control hazards and risks is the least effective measure and is
lowest on the hierarchy of control measures. Control measures will be selected from
the highest level possible and be adopted where practicable. The measures at the
lower levels are less effective and they require more frequent reviews of the hazards
and systems of work. They will only be used when other control measures are
impracticable or when, after implementing other controls, a residual risk remains.

7.1 Provision of PPE

Before commencing any work, the Mashael Asser Contracting Est. and or
contractors will identify any conditions likely to affect the health and safety of
persons. If other means of control are not practical, the provision and use of
appropriate PPE that complies with the relevant HSE regulations will be arranged.
Employees will be trained till they are competent in the proper selection, use and
maintenance of the PPE. There will be sufficient supervision and monitoring
conducted to ensure compliance.

7.1.1 Safety helmets

The use of safety helmets may prevent or lessen a head injury from falling
objects or a person hitting their head against something. Where there is a
likelihood of persons being injured by falling objects and overhead
protection is not provided, persons will be provided with and will use an
appropriate safety helmet. Appropriate safety helmets will also be
provided and used where a person may strike their hand against a fixed or
protruding object or where there is a risk of accidental head contact with
electrical hazards.

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7.1.2 Eye protection

Eye protection complying with HSE regulations will also be provided,
where there is a risk of eye injury. Selection, use and management
systems will comply with HSE regulations

7.1.3 Personal hearing protection

A noise assessment will be conducted to determine the level of noise that
employees are exposed to. Where the noise is in excess of the noise
exposure limits, engineering controls will be implemented.

7.1.4 High visibility garments/safety reflective vests

Persons working near traffic, mobile plant or equipment under operator
control, will be provided with and use high visibility garments. Other
clothing not covered by the high visibility garment will be light colored
and all garments will be selected for best contrast with the surrounding
background.

7.1.5 Safety gloves

Where there is a risk of hand injury hand protection that complies with
HSE regulations will be provided and used.

7.2 Maintenance and use of PPE

The contractor will provide such information, instruction, training and
supervision as may be necessary to ensure that PPE are used and maintained as
intended. All PPE used by persons during excavation work will be regularly
inspected and replaced as necessary.

8.0 Occupational health and safety

While the obligation for each person is different, all persons will ensure that the way
they carry out their work will not interfere with the health and safety of the other
persons who are present at the workplace. All work practices must comply with HSE
regulations.

9.0 Risk assessment

Find attachment

10.0 Job safety analysis

Find attachment

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