Safe Digging Excavation Practice

Course Overview

The Safe Digging and Excavation Practices course is designed to equip workers and supervisors with the essential skills and knowledge to carry out excavation tasks safely and in compliance with legal and industry standards. This training is ideal for those working in construction, utilities, groundworks, and civil engineering. Learners will develop an understanding of how to plan, inspect, and execute excavations while avoiding damage to underground services and minimising the risk of collapse or injury.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

• Understand the legal and regulatory requirements for excavation work (e.g. HSG47, CDM Regulations)
• Identify common excavation hazards, including ground collapse, underground services, and access/egress risks
• Recognise the importance of site-specific risk assessments, method statements, and permits to dig
• Understand utility plans and how to interpret service drawings and records
• Demonstrate the correct use of cable avoidance tools (CAT) and signal generators (Genny)
• Apply safe systems of work when working near or around live services
• Understand the need for and use of protective systems (e.g. trench boxes, shoring, battering)
• Establish exclusion zones and safe pedestrian and machinery access around excavations
• Carry out daily visual inspections and record findings in line with regulatory standards
• Understand emergency procedures in the event of a service strike or excavation failure
• Maintain good housekeeping and environmental controls during excavation activities

Assessment Methods

This course is assessed through a written theory quiz and practical exercises, which may include the interpretation of utility plans and simulated excavation planning scenarios.

Additional Information

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, physically capable of working in groundworks environments, and possess an adequate level of English literacy to understand safety briefings and complete written assessments.