Safe Systems of Work, Trench Support, and Inspection for Utility Excavations
This course will provide the learners with the skills and knowledge required to safely install ground support systems to a depth of 2.5m. It also provides them with an awareness of the hazards associated with deep excavations. If required, learners can be certificated to City & Guilds, or EUSR registration.
On successful completion of the course learners will be able to:
• State the current legislation and company procedures.
• State the causes of trench collapse.
• Explain the different methods of trench support.
• Design a safe system of work and applying the principles of SCO Permits.
• Inspect existing installations of various trench support systems.
• Demonstrate how to safely install, and remove, a variety of ground support systems, depending on ground conditions. (Timber, steel and proprietary systems)
• Demonstrate methods of removing water from excavations.
• Install and remove mechanical support systems for excavations.
• Install and remove sheet piling support systems for excavation.
• Install and remove board and skeleton support system for excavations
The Deep Excavations Refresher course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of how to safely monitor, inspect, and manage trenching activities in line with current UK legislation, industry guidance, and company procedures.
The course explores the primary causes of trench collapse, including ground conditions, surcharge loads, water ingress, and inadequate support, before examining a range of trench support systems such as timbering, proprietary shoring, and trench boxes, with emphasis on correct selection and installation.
Learners are guided through what constitutes a safe system of work, including risk assessment, method statement development, and the practical design of controls that align with site conditions and organisational procedures. The principles of SCO (Safe Control of Operations) Permits are embedded throughout, reinforcing the importance of formal authorisation, supervision, and ongoing monitoring.
Finally, the course develops competence in inspecting existing trench support installations to ensure they remain compliant, stable, and fit for purpose throughout the life of the excavation, reflecting both legal duties and best practice expectations within the utilities sector
All utility operatives who are required to undertake work in or around deep excavations. Managers and supervisors will also benefit from attending this course. Note: Age restriction of 18+ applies to this course.
City & Guilds
Location
Date
Interested in Enrolling onto this course?