Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00416:reg:4:p6
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00416
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 4 (pt 6/21)
Character Range: 45537–48440

industrial rope access systems), or
        +      fall arrest systems such as catch platforms.
Control measures include:
    * the support system itself, for example using trench box extensions or trench sheets longer than the trench depth (see Figure 6)
    * installing guard rails or covers on trench shields (see Figure 7)
    * inserting guard rails and toe boards into the ground immediately next to the supported excavation side
    * installing landing platforms or scaffold towers inside deep excavations
    * securing ladders to trench shields
    * installing effective barriers or barricades
    * providing clearly defined pedestrian detours
    * provision of alternative access and egress points to the excavation for emergency use, and
    * backfilling the excavation as work progresses.

Figure 6 Extending trench shields above the excavation

Figure 7 Steel mesh covers over trench shields

A SWMS must be prepared for excavation work that involves a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres.
Further guidance on controlling the risk of falls is available in the Code of Practice: How to prevent falls at workplaces.

4.5              Using explosives
Construction work that involves the use of explosives is defined by the WHS Regulations as high risk construction work and a SWMS must be prepared before this work commences.

A competent person experienced in the controlled application of explosives for the purpose
of carrying out the excavation work should be consulted before deciding whether explosives
may be used for the excavation.

All possession, storage, handling and use of explosives must be carried out in compliance
with the relevant dangerous substances/goods or explosives legislation applicable in your state
or territory.

The transport of explosives must be in accordance with the Australian Code for the Transport
of Explosives by Road and Rail.

Explosives must only be used by a competent person who is licensed in the use of explosives and has experience in the work to be undertaken. If explosives are used in excavation work,
a licensed competent person must develop the blast management plan and be responsible
for all aspects of the use of explosives.

For further information on the use of explosives for excavation work, refer to AS 2187.2: Explosives – Storage and Use - Use of Explosives

4.6              Atmospheric conditions and ventilation
The risk of atmospheric contamination through a build up of gases and fumes must be controlled in excavation work. Gases and fumes heavier than air can collect in tunnels and excavations for example: gases (such as sulphur dioxide), engine fumes (such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide) and leakage from gas bottles, fuel tanks, sewers, drains, gas pipes and LPG tanks.
Plant that uses a combustion engine (for example air compressors, electrical generators) should never be used in a confined