Pre-Task Plan: Excavating a Manhole

Date: [DATE] Work Area: [WORK AREA] Task Supervisor: [SUPERVISOR NAME]

1. Task Description

Excavation and entry into a manhole for [specific purpose, e.g., repair, inspection].

2. Task Duration

Estimated Start: [START TIME] Estimated Completion: [END TIME]

3. Personnel Involved

• [ROLE 2]: Attendant/Competent Person
• [ROLE 3]: [Other support personnel]

4. Task-Specific Hazards and Controls

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Cave-in/Collapse	Entrapment, burial, injury	Ensure a protective system is in place if the excavation is 5 feet or greater in depth, or if a potential cave-in is indicated by a competent person [1]. Protective systems include support systems, sloping and benching systems, or shield systems 2, 3.
Hazardous Atmosphere	Asphyxiation, poisoning, explosion	Test the atmosphere for oxygen deficiency, flammable gas, and toxic substances before entry and continuously if potential for changes exists 4, 5, 15. Provide ventilation to maintain a safe atmosphere, ensuring flammable gas concentrations do not exceed 20% of the lower flammable limit 1, 5.
Water Accumulation	Drowning, electrocution	Do not work in excavations with accumulated water unless adequate precautions are taken 1, 5. Use water removal equipment and monitor its operation 1, 5. Consider using a safety harness and lifeline 1, 5.
Falling Objects	Head injury, struck-by injury	Keep materials and equipment at least 2 feet from the edge of the excavation or use retaining devices [1]. Ensure workers stand away from vehicles being loaded or unloaded [2].
Traffic Hazards	Struck-by injury	Use warning vests or other suitable garments marked with reflectorized or high-visibility material for employees exposed to public vehicular traffic 15, 18. Implement a warning system for mobile equipment operating near the excavation 15, 18.
Unguarded Manhole Opening	Fall Hazard	When covers of manholes or vaults are removed, the opening shall be promptly guarded by a railing, temporary cover, or other suitable temporary barrier [3].
Underground Utilities	Electrocution, explosion	Prior to excavation, identify and locate any underground utilities in the area. Use safe digging practices to avoid damage. Metal measuring tapes, metal measuring ropes, or tapes containing conductive strands may not be used when working near exposed energized parts [3].

5. Required PPE for Today's Task

• Hard hat
• Safety glasses
• High-visibility vest
• Safety boots
• Gloves
• [Appropriate respiratory protection, if required based on atmospheric testing]

6. Tools and Equipment Needed

• Shoring or trench box (if required)
• Ladder or other safe means of egress
• Gas detector
• Ventilation equipment (if required)
• Excavation tools (shovels, etc.)
• [Barricades/warning tape]

7. Pre-Start Checklist

Area Preparation

• Barricade the work area to protect from traffic 15, 18.
• Ensure the excavation site is clear of obstructions.
• Establish a safe zone for equipment and material storage, at least 2 feet from the excavation edge [1].

Equipment Checks

• Inspect shoring or trench box for damage and proper function.
• Verify gas detector is calibrated and functioning correctly.
• Ensure ladder or ramp is secured and in good condition 15, 18.

Communication

• Review hand signals and emergency procedures.
• Confirm communication methods between entrant and attendant.
• Ensure all personnel are aware of the hazards and control measures.

8. Task Steps Overview

1. Conduct atmospheric testing before entry 4, 5, 15.
2. Set up ventilation if required 1, 5.
3. Install shoring or trench box if required [1].
4. Enter the manhole and perform the necessary work.
5. Continuously monitor the atmosphere and surrounding conditions.

9. Emergency Response for This Task

• Cave-in → Immediately evacuate the area (if possible), contact emergency services.
• Hazardous atmosphere → Evacuate, provide fresh air, administer first aid, contact emergency services.
• Water accumulation → Cease work, evacuate, implement water removal procedures.

10. Task-Specific Precautions

• Never enter an excavation without proper protection against cave-in [1].
• Continuously monitor the atmosphere for hazardous conditions 4, 5, 15.
• Ensure a competent person is always present to monitor the excavation 16, 17.

Pre-Task Briefing Confirmation

All workers understand the task, associated hazards, and required controls.

Team Lead Initials: [___] Date: [DATE] Time: [TIME]

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