Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00416:reg:3:p3
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00416
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 3 (pt 3/5)
Character Range: 26152–29067

at the workplace by contractors and/or subcontractors. For example, where there is:
    * a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres, and
    * a trench with an excavated depth greater than 1.5 metres.
In this case, the contractors or subcontractors can consult and cooperate to prepare one SWMS. Alternatively they can prepare separate SWMS. If they choose to do this they must consult with each other to ensure all SWMS are consistent and they are not creating unintended additional risks at the workplace.
Further guidance on SWMS and an example SWMS template is available in the Code of Practice: Construction work.

3.4              Adjacent buildings or structures
Excavation work may seriously affect the security or stability of any part of a structure at
or adjacent to the location of the proposed excavation which can lead to structural failure
or collapse. Excavation work must not commence until steps are taken to prevent the collapse
or partial collapse of any potentially affected building or structure.
Any excavation that is below the level of the footing of any structure including retaining walls that could affect the stability of the structure must be assessed by a competent person and secured by a suitable ground support system which has been designed by a competent person. Suitable supports to brace the structure may also be required and should be identified by a competent person.

It is also important that other buildings in and around the excavation site are not adversely affected by vibration or concussion during the excavation work. Special precautions may need to be taken in the vicinity of hospitals and other buildings containing equipment sensitive to shock and vibration.
Excavation work must be carried out in a way that does not cause flooding or water penetration
to any adjacent building.

3.5              Essential services
Essential services include the supply of gas, water, sewerage, telecommunications, electricity, chemicals, fuel and refrigerant in pipes or lines. The principal contractor must manage the risks associated with essential services at the workplace.
Specific control measures must be implemented before using excavators or other earthmoving machinery near overhead electric lines. The relevant authority should be consulted regarding approach distances and appropriate control measures implemented to prevent any part of the plant or any load carried on it from coming too close or contacting overhead electric lines.

Underground essential services
Regulation 304 A person with management or control of the workplace must, before directing
or allowing work to commence, take all reasonable steps to obtain current underground essential services information about the areas at the workplace where the excavation work is to be carried out. They must also obtain information about underground essential services in areas adjacent
to the site of