CSCS Excavation Safety

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of installing trench boxes during excavation work on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the collapse of trench sides and protect operatives working within the excavation

Answer

Trench boxes (also called trench shields) are structural supports placed inside excavations to prevent the sides from collapsing onto workers. Under the CDM Regulations 2015 and the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (which also cover work below ground), adequate support must be provided to prevent collapse in any excavation where there is a risk.

Question 2

What must be done before any excavation work begins on a construction site under CDM Regulations 2015?

Accepted Answer

A permit to dig must be obtained, underground services located using CAT and Genny, and a risk assessment completed

Answer

CDM Regulations 2015 require that before excavation, all underground services must be identified using utility plans, CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny scans, and trial holes where necessary. A permit to dig must be issued, a site-specific risk assessment completed, and a method statement prepared covering support systems, access/egress, and emergency procedures.

Question 3

At what depth must an excavation generally be provided with edge protection barriers under UK health and safety law?

Accepted Answer

Any depth where there is a risk of persons or materials falling in

Answer

There is no specific depth threshold for edge protection. Under the CDM Regulations 2015 and the Work at Height Regulations 2005, edge protection such as guardrails, barriers, or stop blocks must be provided at any excavation where there is a risk of persons falling in or materials falling onto workers below, regardless of depth.

Question 4

How often must excavations be inspected under the CDM Regulations 2015?

Accepted Answer

At the start of each shift, after any event likely to have affected stability, and after any accidental fall of material

Answer

Regulation 22 of the CDM Regulations 2015 requires excavations to be inspected by a competent person at the start of every shift, after any event likely to have affected the strength or stability of the excavation (such as heavy rain or vibration), and after any accidental fall of rock, earth, or other material. Written reports must be kept.

Question 5

What is the purpose of 'battering back' the sides of an excavation?

Accepted Answer

To slope the sides to a safe angle to prevent collapse, reducing the risk without using shoring

Answer

Battering back involves cutting the excavation sides at an angle (typically 45 degrees or less depending on soil type) rather than leaving them vertical. This reduces the risk of collapse by using the natural angle of repose of the soil. It is an alternative to shoring or trench boxes where space permits, as recognised in HSE guidance.

CSCS Green Card Practice Test

CSCS Green Card Practice Test

CSCS Excavation Safety