Utility Excavations – Category 2: Implement Safe (Digging) Excavating Practices
Category 2: Implement Safe (Digging) Excavating Practices covers the minimum training and assessment required for those working to safely excavate and maintain holes and trenches using both hand tools and hand-held power tools. The standard has been derived from the following National Occupational Standards:
- EUSEPUS043 Carry out Excavation Work on Underground Cables in Electricity Power Environment
- EUSMUNC07 Excavate and Maintain Holes and Trenches for Utility Networks Construction
- EUSGNC007 Excavate and Maintain Holes and Trenches for Complex Operations in Gas Network Construction
It also incorporates the relevant requirements of HSE guidance documents:
- HSG47 Avoiding Danger from Underground Services
- HSG150 Health and Safety in Construction
Achievement of the standard demonstrates effective performance, by being able to demonstrate the following skills and knowledge:
- Interpret utility drawings and identify symbols and coded information
- Ensure all necessary location, marking and site safety provisions have been carried out correctly prior to any excavation work commencing
- Identify the dangers and hazards associated with excavations
- Select and use safe digging techniques to carry out and maintain excavations