Pre-Task Plan: Excavation

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

1. Task Description

Excavation of a trench for utility installation, including soil removal and shoring installation.

2. Task Duration

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

3. Personnel Involved

• Excavator Operator
• Laborer
• Safety Officer

4. Task-Specific Hazards and Controls

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Cave-ins	Burial or injury	Use protective systems such as shoring or trench boxes [1]. Ensure a competent person inspects the excavation daily [2].
Hazardous Atmospheres	Asphyxiation or poisoning	Test for hazardous gases and ensure adequate ventilation [3]. Use respiratory protection if necessary [3].
Water Accumulation	Drowning or slips	Keep excavation free of water using pumps and monitor by a competent person [3].

5. Required PPE for Today's Task

• Hard hat
• High-visibility vest
• Steel-toed boots
• Respiratory protection (if required)

6. Tools and Equipment Needed

• Excavator
• Shoring equipment
• Gas detector

7. Pre-Start Checklist

Area Preparation

• Verify location of underground utilities [4].
• Ensure spoil piles are at least 1.2 meters from the edge [5].
• Set up barriers and warning signs around the excavation site [6].

Equipment Checks

• Inspect excavator for operational safety.
• Check shoring equipment for integrity.
• Calibrate gas detector.

Communication

• Conduct a safety briefing with all personnel.
• Establish hand signals for communication with equipment operators.

8. Task Steps Overview

1. Conduct a site inspection and mark utility lines.
2. Set up barriers and warning signs.
3. Excavate trench to required depth.
4. Install shoring or trench box.
5. Monitor for hazardous atmospheres and water accumulation.

9. Emergency Response for This Task

• Cave-in → Evacuate area and call emergency services.
• Hazardous gas detection → Evacuate area and ventilate.

10. Task-Specific Precautions

• Ensure all personnel are trained in emergency procedures.
• Maintain clear access and egress from the trench [7].
• Avoid working under suspended loads [6].

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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