Over the two days, this course combines classroom-based learning with hands-on practical experience to give learners a well-rounded understanding of excavation safety.

Day 1 – Theory & Classroom Learning
The first day introduces the core principles of safe excavation work, including the legislation and guidance that underpin safe practice.

Topics covered include:

• Key HSE guidance documents and excavation legislation
• Introduction to timber, steel, and proprietary shoring systems
• Understanding why excavations fail and how to prevent it
• Ground types and the angle of repose
• The principles of excavation-specific risk assessments
• Health hazards commonly encountered in excavation work
• Reading and interpreting temporary works designs

Day 2 – Practical Training & Assessment
The second day focuses on applying knowledge in a live site environment. Delegates will take part in supervised, hands-on training in a ‘Live-Dig’ site.

Activities include:

• Installing, inspecting, and removing a range of excavation support systems
• Working from specific temporary works designs
• Demonstrating best practice in a live dig setting with real equipment
• Completing practical assessments and being observed in action

Managers, supervisors, safety professionals and/or operatives who are required to oversee or carry out work in or around excavations. If you physically install, inspect or remove shoring systems and haven't had any formal training, this course is essential to minimise risk to yourself and those around you. 

This training also supports the requirements outlined in the following National Occupational Standards:

• EUSMUNC07 – Excavate and Maintain Holes and Trenches for Utilities Network Construction
• EUSGNC007 – Excavate and Maintain Holes and Trenches for Complex Operations in Gas Network Construction
• COSVR370 – Provide Temporary Excavation Support
• HSG47 – Avoiding Danger from Underground Services
• HSG150 – Health and Safety in Construction
• CIRIA –  Trenching Practice (second edition R97)

Learners will become familiarised with the necessity for identifying various ground conditions, and will come to understand a variety of methods for utilising the appropriate ground retention system(s).

Theory Assessment
At the end of the course, learners will complete a multiple-choice questionnaire covering only the topics taught throughout the training. An 80% pass mark is required to successfully complete this assessment.

Anyone with specific needs or requiring additional support is encouraged to speak to the trainer on the day of the course. Reasonable adjustments can be made to ensure the assessment process is fair and accessible.

Practical Assessment
Learners will be assessed on all Performance Criteria (PC) through direct observation while carrying out tasks that demonstrate the required skills, knowledge, and understanding.

These assessments will take place throughout the course as part of practical, hands-on activities. A realistic ‘Live Dig’ environment will be used to ensure the assessment reflects real-world conditions. Use of a pre-prepared, concrete-lined pit is not permitted.

Did you know that once you’ve completed and passed your course qualification(s) and EU Skills have registered them, they are available to view and check 24/7 here. You’ll just need to enter your EUSR ID and Surname.

Please note:

• EUSR qualifications that have not yet been registered by our administration team won’t show. For example, if you were on a course yesterday.
• EUSR qualifications that are expired won’t display (even if 1 single day expired)
• Groundforce Training are here to help with any questions, contact: 0800 0232663 groundforcetraining@vpplc.com