Victoria: excavation risks extend beyond the hole

WorkSafe Victoria’s Excavation compliance code was published on 19 December 2019 and remains available on its official resource page.

Practical points

Excavation planning considers ground conditions, underground services, nearby structures, plant, access, weather and the period the excavation remains open. The risk assessment is not just a measurement of depth.

Employers must use the applicable hierarchy to eliminate risks where reasonably practicable, or reduce them using appropriate controls. Consultation with employees and HSRs should inform control decisions. Ground-collapse prevention and keeping unauthorised people out require deliberate planning.

An illustrative workplace example

For hypothetical pipe repairs near a correctional facility’s usual access route, ask how underground services were identified, how the work area is separated and what happens if weather changes conditions. Agree on safe alternative movement arrangements rather than leaving staff to improvise a route.

Status and source

Following the code provides deemed compliance only for duties it covers. Other lawful methods are possible; the code does not replace legislation. General education, not individual legal or engineering advice.

Read the official WorkSafe resource page and complete official PDF.