You may need to comply with this code if you intend to operate a business involved in excavation work, including work done as an excavation contractor or as the manager or controller of a site at which excavation work is carried out. Excavation work means work involving the removal of soil or rock from a site to form an open face, hole or cavity using tools, machinery or explosives. If you intend to conduct a business or undertaking tasks that involve excavations at the workplace you must manage risks associated with all kinds of excavations, no matter how deep.
The code includes specific duties in relation to high-risk excavations. If you intend to conduct high risk excavation you will need a Safe Work Method Statement. High risk construction work includes any work connected with an excavation that is carried out in or near a shaft or trench with an excavation of depth of greater than 1.5 metres or, a tunnel.
