Safe Work Procedure: Install Pipe in Excavation

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe installation of pipes in excavations, including the identification and management of underground utilities, ensuring structural stability, and the use of protective systems to prevent cave-ins. It applies to all excavation sites where pipe installation is required.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with other relevant procedures, such as those for trenching and shoring.

2. Definitions

Excavation
A man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth's surface formed by earth removal.

Trench
A narrow excavation where the depth is greater than the width, but not exceeding 15 feet (4.6 meters) at the bottom.

Protective System
A method of protecting workers from cave-ins, including shoring, shielding, and sloping.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained and competent in excavation safety.
Verify that all underground utilities are located and marked before excavation begins.
Ensure protective systems are in place and maintained.

3.2 Workers

Follow all safety procedures and use protective equipment as required.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
Participate in pre-job briefings and safety meetings.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Conduct regular inspections of the excavation site.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Cave-ins	Burial, injury, or death	Use protective systems such as shoring or trench boxes [1]
Underground utilities	Striking utilities, causing damage or injury	Locate and mark utilities before excavation [2]
Falling materials	Injury from falling debris	Scale and trim loose materials from excavation sides [3]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to protect workers from hazards associated with excavation work.

Hard hat - Protects against head injuries from falling objects.
Safety boots - Provides foot protection from heavy materials and equipment.
High-visibility vest - Ensures workers are visible to equipment operators.
Gloves - Protects hands from cuts and abrasions.
Safety glasses - Protects eyes from dust and debris.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged or worn items.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safe and efficient pipe installation.

Excavator - Used for digging and moving soil.
Trench box - Provides protection against cave-ins.
Pipe laser - Ensures accurate pipe alignment.
Shovels - Used for manual digging and adjustments.
Lifting slings - Used for safely lifting and positioning pipes.

Inspect equipment regularly and maintain according to manufacturer guidelines.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in excavation safety, including the use of protective systems and emergency procedures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety measures. Ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the excavation site is clear of obstructions and that all utilities are marked. Set up barriers and signage to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Site Preparation

Prepare the site by marking utilities and setting up protective barriers.

Locate and mark all underground utilities [2].
Set up barriers and signage around the excavation site.
Ensure all equipment is inspected and ready for use.

Step 2: Excavation

Excavate the trench to the required depth and width.

Use an excavator to dig the trench, maintaining a safe distance from marked utilities.
Ensure the trench is sloped or shored to prevent cave-ins [1].
Remove loose materials from the trench sides [3].

Step 3: Pipe Installation

Install the pipe in the prepared trench.

Use lifting slings to position the pipe in the trench.
Align the pipe using a pipe laser for accuracy.
Secure the pipe in place and backfill the trench carefully.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ensure all workers are aware of the location of underground utilities.
Use protective systems to prevent cave-ins.
Maintain a safe distance from the edge of the excavation.
Monitor weather conditions and stop work if conditions become unsafe.
Conduct regular safety inspections of the site.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, stop work immediately and evacuate the area. Contact emergency services if necessary.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Cave-in - Evacuate the area and contact emergency services.
Utility Strike - Stop work and notify the utility company immediately.
Injury - Provide first aid and contact emergency services.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately. Conduct an investigation to determine the cause and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020) [2]
Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA) [1]
Occupational Health and Safety Code [3]

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]