Utility Excavations - Category 2

Utility Excavations - Category 2: Implement Safe (Digging) Excavating Practices

Category 2: Implement Safe (Digging) Excavating Practices covers the minimum training and assessment required for those working to safely excavate and maintain holes and trenches using both hand tools and hand-held power tools. The standard has been derived from the following National Occupational Standards:

• EUSEPUS043 Carry out Excavation Work on Underground Cables in Electricity Power Environment
• EUSMUNC07 Excavate and Maintain Holes and Trenches for Utility Networks Construction
• EUSGNC007 Excavate and Maintain Holes and Trenches for Complex Operations in Gas Network Construction

It also incorporates the relevant requirements of HSE guidance documents:

• HSG47 Avoiding Danger from Underground Services
• HSG150 Health and Safety in Construction

Achievement of the standard demonstrates effective performance, by being able to demonstrate the following skills and knowledge:

• Interpret utility drawings and identify symbols and coded information
• Ensure all necessary location, marking and site safety provisions have been carried out correctly prior to any excavation work commencing
• Identify the dangers and hazards associated with excavations
• Select and use safe digging techniques to carry out and maintain excavations