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Refer to 2.1
Benching is a method of protecting employees from cave-ins by excavating the sides of an excavation to form one or a series of horizontal levels or steps, usually with vertical or near-vertical surfaces between levels.
Protective systems must be designed by a competent person in accordance with the Temporary Works Procedure.
Blinding around base of excavation and covering trip hazard of dewatering conduits
Keep the bed of the excavation clear of anything that would impede a workers’ safe egress in an emergency, including:
• Debris
• Loose spoil
• Timber
• Tools
Dewatering
Refer to 2.D
The stability of any excavated face depends on the strength of the soil in the face being greater at all times than the stresses it is subjected to.
The following situations all increase soil stresses in an excavated face, which may lead to failure:
• Deep cuts and steep slopes
• Loads placed near the excavation face inside the zone of influence
• Shock and vibration
• Water pressure from groundwater
• Soil saturation
This is the reason the dewatering system has been established due to the depth of the excavation and the water table levels. If we did not install this system then there would be potential water ingress to the pits.
Flagging
Refer to 2.4
Identify and implement barricading, signage and edge protection requirements for the planned excavation
Heavy loads kept at distance from bench
Refer to 2.3
Mechanical plant, vehicles, storage of materials (including excavated material) or any other heavy loads must not be located in the zone of influence of an excavation as this will place additional load onto that area.
Pedestrian Access Ramp
Refer to 2.B
Stairways, ladders or ramps must also be provided in excavations that are 1.2 metres or more in depth and located in positions that a worker will not be required to travel laterally more than 10m, from any point within the excavation.
Ramps used for foot traffic within the job should be no steeper than 1:6