Above-Ground Hazards at Excavation Sites
The Problem
Excavation work often draws attention to underground hazards such as cave-ins or utility strikes, but we must not overlook the risks above ground. Overhead power lines, unstable surfaces, moving machinery, and falling debris can cause serious injury or even death if they’re not identified and managed properly. Today, we’ll focus on recognising these above-ground hazards and taking the right precautions to keep everyone safe..
Identify the Hazards
Overhead Electrical Hazards
- Contact with live power lines can result in electrocution or serious burns.
Surface Encumbrances
- Unstable objects like utility poles, boulders, fences, or trees may shift and fall when soil is removed nearby.
Visibility Issues
- Machine operators may not see workers if high-visibility clothing or traffic control isn’t in place.
Moving Equipment
- Workers can be struck or pinned by diggers, loaders, or trucks.
Falling Debris During Loading/Unloading
- Items falling from trucks, excavators, or containers can cause blunt trauma or crush injuries.
Walking on Excavated Areas
- Surfaces like footpaths, foundations, or driveways may collapse without warning if the soil below is removed.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Avoiding Overhead Electrical Hazards
- Look Up First: Always identify power lines before starting excavation.
- Control Measures: If power lines are present, consult with the Competent Person and contact the local electricity distributor. Power may need to be isolated or insulated, and exclusion zones established.
Addressing Surface Encumbrances
- Check Surroundings: Look for trees, poles, fences, or heavy items near the excavation that could become unstable.
- Relocate or Support: Use temporary bracing or remove hazards where possible. This must be assessed and approved by the Competent Person.
Improving Visibility for Machine Operators
- Wear Hi-Vis: All workers in the vicinity of mobile plant must wear high-visibility PPE.
- Traffic Management: Implement a traffic management plan including spotters, barriers, and signage if mobile plant operates in shared spaces.
Keeping Clear of Moving Machinery
- Safe Distance: Maintain a clear zone around operating plant at all times.
- Avoid Blind Spots: Never stand where the operator cannot see you—maintain eye contact or use spotters.
Preventing Falling Debris
- Stay Back: Never stand near the rear of trucks, skip bins, or loading areas when material is being loaded or unloaded.
- Secure Loads: Make sure all loads are stable before lifting or dumping.
Walking on Excavated Areas
- Assess Structures: Don’t walk on footpaths, driveways, foundations, or slabs where soil has been excavated below—they may collapse
- Use Support Systems: Underpinning or temporary supports must be installed if walking on these surfaces is required. Only the Competent Person can authorise this.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a recent project, a worker walked under the boom of an excavator without realising the operator couldn’t see him. A quick-thinking coworker shouted out just in time to prevent a serious incident. This close call reminded the team of the importance of maintaining visibility and safe distances from moving plant.
Employee Responsibilities
- Always check overhead and surrounding areas before starting excavation work.
- Wear your high-vis clothing at all times.
- Maintain a safe distance from all moving machinery.
- Report any above-ground hazards or unsafe conditions to the Competent Person right away.
Employer Responsibilities
- Ensure a Competent Person has inspected the site for all overhead and surface hazards.
- Provide appropriate PPE, including hi-vis gear and safety helmets.
- Implement traffic control and exclusion zones where needed.
- Secure or relocate unstable surface objects before excavation begins.
Discussion & Questions
- “What above-ground hazards have you seen on our job sites?”
- “How do you make sure you’re visible when working near diggers or trucks?”
- “Has anyone seen a near-miss involving overhead lines or falling debris?”
Encourage open discussion and the sharing of past incidents—it’s a valuable learning tool.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to checking our surroundings above ground, not just below. Starting today, everyone must identify and report above-ground hazards before starting excavation. These steps are vital to keeping every worker safe.
Wrap-Up
Above-ground hazards are just as dangerous as anything hidden below the surface. With good communication, proper planning, and the right precautions, we can avoid serious injuries. Thanks for taking the time to focus on these risks—your awareness keeps the whole team safe.
Standards Overview
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and WorkSafe NZ Excavation Safety Good Practice Guidelines:
- A Competent Person must assess and manage all hazards, including those above ground.
- Employers must implement controls for mobile plant, overhead services, unstable structures, and falling object risks.
- Hi-vis PPE, exclusion zones, traffic control plans, and electrical hazard management are mandatory where risks are present.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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