SAFE EXCAVATION COURSE
The Echo3 online Safe Excavation course is designed for individuals working in construction and related industries. It provides a clear understanding of safe excavation practices and promotes the correct implementation of safety protocols to help prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to buried services.
Excavation work is among the most hazardous activities in the construction industry. Striking underground cables, whether by cutting or crushing them, can result in fatal electric shocks or severe burns.
To mitigate these risks, the UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) publishes guidance HSG47, which highlights the importance of providing employees with appropriate training before undertaking any excavation work.
This online Safe Excavation course follows the best practices outlined in HSG47. Upon completion, learners receive an accredited Echo3 certificate, helping organisations demonstrate compliance with health and safety regulations.
Safe Excavation Course Content
Unit 1 – Excavation Work: Dangers and the Law
Covers the definition of excavation, the associated hazards, legal responsibilities, employee duties, and the moral and financial implications involved.
Unit 2 – Excavation Control Measures
Covers work control procedures, excavation permits, interpreting drawings and markings, plant safety, risk assessments (RAMS), and best practices for safe excavation during and after the work.
UNIT 3 – Quiz
Complete a 15-question multiple-choice quiz, achieving a score of 80% or higher to receive your completion certificate via email. Your certificate will also be securely stored online for your records. If needed, the quiz can be retaken.
Safe Excavation Course Certificate
Download and Print Your Certificate
- Written in compliance with the Buried Services Guidance HSG47
- Developed by qualified health and safety professionals
- Accredited by CPD – learn more about CPD here
- Last Updated June 2023
- To gain the certificate you must complete the assessment which involves 15 questions.
- The online Safe Excavation certificate is valid for 3 years.
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What are Safe Excavation course objectives?
The Echo3 Safe Excavation course is designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed to work safely around buried services. Learners will gain the ability to identify and mitigate excavation hazards, interpret utility markings, and adhere to regulatory requirements.
The training also promotes proficiency in the correct use of safety equipment and effective emergency response procedures. Ultimately, it aims to foster a culture of safety by empowering individuals to reduce risks and maintain a secure working environment within the construction and utilities sectors.
Who should take safe excavation training?
Construction workers, supervisors, and project managers involved in excavation projects will benefit from completing an online Safe Excavation Awareness course.
This Safe Excavation training is essential for anyone engaged in ground-disturbing activities, providing the knowledge needed to identify and manage excavation hazards effectively. By following proper safety protocols, participants help create a safer work environment, minimise the risk of accidents, and support compliance with industry regulations.
What are excavations?
Excavation involves any work that penetrates or disturbs the ground or floor. This includes activities such as:
- Hand digging
- Hammering road pins
- Excavation using machinery
- Breaking up slabs
- Floor sawing
- Removal of trees and hedges
What are buried services?
Underground and buried services are interchangeable terms that refer to pipes, cables, and equipment installed below the surface. These services include essential utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications infrastructure.
What are the dangers from excavations?
Striking underground services, also known as buried services, can range from a minor inconvenience—such as temporarily damaging a data cable—to severe hazards. When high-risk services like electricity or gas are hit, the consequences can be serious injuries or even fatalities.
Injuries typically result from the explosive effects of electrical arcing and any resulting fires or flames caused when a live cable is pierced by a sharp object, such as a tool’s point.
Damage to water or sewage mains can also lead to significant problems, including flooding and contamination.
Moreover, strikes to underground services may cause extensive property damage, environmental harm, and secondary incidents such as fires, explosions, or flooding.
What is the UK buried services guidance?
The UK health and safety executive produces guidance on how to comply with health and safety laws.
Guidance document HSG47 is written for everyone work on or near underground services.
Guidance document HSG150 provides general safety guidance for anyone working in construction.
Related Courses
Electrical Safely – Gain awareness of workplace electrical risks and effective prevention methods.
Manual Handling – Safe techniques for conducting various workplace lifts.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Learn the vital role and value of PPE
Risk Assessment and Method Statements – How to assess risks and implement appropriate control measures.
Working At Height – How to safely work at heights.
Access all Echo3 courses for your staff using course credits.
