Excavations

• Pages: 277-281

31. Excavations

31.1. General provisions

31.1.1. Before excavation begins on any site, the stability

of the ground should be verified by a competent person.

31.1.2. Before work begins on any excavation site, the

employer should verify the position of all underground installa-

tions such as sewers, gas pipes, water pipes and electrical conduc-

tors that may cause danger during the work.

31.1.3. If necessary to prevent danger before an excavation

is started, gas, water, electrical and other public utilities should

be shut off or disconnected.

31.1.4. If underground pipes, conductors, etc. cannot be

removed or disconnected, they should be fenced, hung up or

otherwise protected.

31.1.5. If necessary to prevent danger, land should be cleared

of trees, boulders and other obstructions before excavation begins.

31.1.6. Sides of excavations should be thoroughly inspected:

after an interruption in work of more than one day;

after every blasting operation;

after an unexpected fall of ground;

after substantial damage to supports;

after a heavy frost;

after heavy rain; and

when boulder formations are encountered.

31.1.7. Safe means of access and egress should be provided

to every place where persons are employed in excavation.

31.1.8. No person should work on loose ground if the slope

is too steep to ensure a safe foothold.

31.1.9. When ground does not ensure a safe foothold, ade-

quate support should be provided.

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