What it covers
The sequence for locating services, excavating the trench, laying and bedding the pipe, connecting to the manhole, testing the run and backfilling. It records the permit to dig, the trench support or battering, and the excavation inspections.
Hazards and controls
Striking buried services, controlled by drawings and a CAT-and-genny survey before any digging. Trench collapse, controlled by support or battering and keeping spoil back from the edge. Gases and low oxygen at an existing manhole, controlled by working from outside the chamber and testing the air before anyone enters. Then plant near people, falls into the trench, and infection from sewage. Controls follow the hierarchy, so locating services and supporting the trench come before PPE.
Permits and inspection
Drainage work usually needs a permit to dig and regular excavation inspections. A connection to a public sewer may also need the water company's approval. The method statement names the permits and the inspection regime, so the document matches how the work is controlled on site.
FAQ
- Does it cover trench collapse?
- Yes. Trench support or battering is part of the numbered method, and collapse is in the risk assessment with the matching controls.
- Does it cover working at an existing manhole?
- Yes. The method keeps work outside the chamber where possible, and gases, low oxygen and sewage are in the risk assessment.
- Can I add my own steps?
- Yes. Download it as Word and edit anything to match the runs, the depths and the plant you are using.
- What does it cost?
- Your first document is free. After that, £15 each, three for £35, or ten for £89. No subscription. You can read a full sample before you decide.