Pars Oil & Gas Company

Excavation Safety Procedure

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROCEDURE

Excavation Safety Procedure

DOCUMENT ID - PR-68-POGC-001
REVISION ‐ 0.0
 Excavation Safety Procedure
Pars Oil & Gas Company
Pages Revision Document ID.
64 00 HSE Department
PR-68-POGC-001

Excavation Safety Procedure

Document Authorization

Document
Document Type Security Classification Document Custodian
Authority/Owner

Safety Procedure Unrestricted P.O.G.C HSE

Document Author Approved By

HSE-S564392 M.Ansari

HSE-S593443
PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................... 3

2. PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 3

3. SCOPE ...................................................................................................................................... 3

4. RESPONSIBILITIES .............................................................................................................. 3

5. PROCEDURE .......................................................................................................................... 5
5.1 General ................................................................................................................. 5
5.2 Prepration ............................................................................................................ 6
5.3 Work Permit ......................................................................................................... 7
5.4 Before Work Starts.............................................................................................. 7
5.5 Excution of the Work ......................................................................................... 8
5.6 Support ................................................................................................................. 8
5.7 Completion .......................................................................................................... 8
5.8 General Consideration......................................................................................... 9
5.9 Backfill................................................................................................................. 9
5.10 Safe Practices Riminder .................................................................................. 10
5.11 Excavation near Telephone Cables ............................................................... 15
5.12 UnderGround Obstructions............................................................................. 15
5.13 General Precautions ........................................................................................ 15
5.14 Access and Egress ........................................................................................... 17
5.15 Hazardous Atmospheres and Materials.......................................................... 17
5.16 Edge Protection, Markers and Fixed Lighting............................................... 19
5.17 Roads and Side walks ..................................................................................... 19
5.18 Borrow Pits ...................................................................................................... 19
5.19 Tips and Excavation ....................................................................................... 20

6. TRAINING ............................................................................................................................. 24
7. DEFFINITION ...................................................................................................................... 25
8. REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 27
9. APPENDIXES ....................................................................................................................... 28
SUGGESTION FORM

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 2

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

1. INTRODUCTION
Pars Oil and Gas Company (POGC), a subsidiary of National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC),
was established in 1998. POGC is a developmental and manufacturing organization that
specializes in the fields of engineering and management of development projects, production,
operation and integrated management of oil and gas reservoirs. POGC’s mission is to ensure
sustainable and preservative production and development of Iran’s oil and gas industry in the
areas under its responsibility, development of oil and gas value chain as well as optimization of
energy supply processes at national, regional and international levels. POGC is also in charge
of development of joint and non-joint oil and gas fields of the country including South Pars,
North Pars, Golshan and Ferdowsi.

Aimed at creating superior value and boosting the level of satisfaction of the beneficiaries and
with an approach focusing on sustainable, integrated and knowledge-oriented production and
development, the company feels committed to comply with national and international
requirements, regulations and standards in such areas as quality, safety, as well as occupational
and environmental health.

2. PURPOSE
This procedure and guidance has been developed to define the actions required to safely control
civil works excavation activities on POGC Projects thus providing safe conditions for all
persons working in excavations and to protect other persons who could be affected by such
activities.
This is done by :
Requiring each department that works in excavations to name one or more people to
serve as their Project Manager;
Training site Managers and supervisors so they understand their duties and their role;
Requiring that all employees that work in excavations have been trained and are able to
demonstrate a complete understanding of the safe work practices that are to follow while
working in an excavation .

3. SCOPE
To be used by the POGC Project Management Team, Supervisor and Subcontractors personnel
who supervise and control civil works operations in all POGC projects and activities.

4. RESPONSIBILITY

4.1 The Contractor Civil Work Superintendent

The Civil Work superintendent in charge of the work shall carry out the following
activities:

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 3

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

• Prior to any excavation being dug, carry out a prior survey of the area to establish the
presence of any underground utilities.
• Establish ground conditions, e.g. the type of ground involved, clay, sand etc. and
compaction qualities and water table.
• Identify the presence of any overhead lines and other obstructions.
• Identify the need for any permits that are required in the area and arrange for them.
• Brief the Contractor carrying out the work of any adjacent operations that may impact
on the work, the presence of overhead and underground utilities.
• For any excavations of a depth of 2 meters or more, the subcontractor must submit an
excavation permit for approval of Contractor Civil Work Superintendent and HSE
department (copy of Excavation Certificate is attached).

4.2 Site Manager

• To ensure that this procedure is applied for the execution of the works and
arrangements are in place for its effective implementation.
• To maintain a safe working environment and protecting employees and
subcontractors from injury or death as a result of electrical hazards.

4.3 HSE Site Manager

• The HSE Site manager is delegated the responsibility for assuring compliance with all
safety requirements that pertain to maintaining a safe working environment and
protecting employees from injury or death as a result of any hazard.
• Assign personnel for carrying out the functional checks necessary for the
implementation of this procedure.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of this procedure and change amends as he feels necessary
to achieve

4.4 Contractors
Shall be responsible for the following:
• Briefing personnel doing the work on the safe working practices required.
• Application of any provided work permit.
• Provision of equipment that is capable of carrying out the work safely has been
maintained and is certified for use on the project.
• Provision of adequate barriers ,flashing lights and signs for the work.
• Program the work to ensure that any trenches that go across roads are done so in a manner
that maintains access.
• Notify the Civil Work superintendent of any unmarked utilities found.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 4

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

5. PROCEDURE

5.1 General

Accidents due to cave-in can occur for excavations which are not shored or otherwise
supported. Even rock that looks solid from a cursory inspection can collapse without warning.
The sides of an excavation may need to be suitably shored, benched or sloped back to a safe
angle of repose, depth, and soil composition.

Other types of excavation accidents are caused by contact with underground pipes and cables,
by falls of equipment and persons, by persons being struck by excavating equipment, and by
hazardous atmospheres.

• No ground can be considered totally stable.

• No soil, whatever its nature, can be relied upon to support its own weight for any length
of time, let alone any additional loads imposed on it by plant and materials.
• The ground may be inherently weak, laminated or have previously been disturbed.
• Water can create instability in excavation, which can occur through:
1) The effects of rainwater.
2) Changes in groundwater conditions.
3) Erosion by water.
4) Drying out of soil.
5) No employees shall be permitted underneath loads handled by lifting and
digging equipment. Employees shall be required to stand away from any vehicle
being loaded or unloaded to avoid being struck by any spillage or falling
materials.
• All excavations must be made safe by:
1) Battering the sides to a safe angle of repose, or
2) Installing structural support, e.g. trench sheets, struts, sheet piling, proprietary
systems or the use of drag boxes.
3) People and vehicles may fall into excavations, therefore followings should
be considered :
− Take steps to prevent people falling into excavations. If the excavation is
2 m or more deep, provide substantial barriers, eg guard rails and toe
boards.
− Keep vehicles away from excavations wherever possible. Use brightly
painted baulks or barriers where necessary.
− Where vehicles have to tip materials into excavations, use stop blocks to
prevent them from over-running. Remember that the sides of the

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 5

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

excavation may need extra support.

• Excavations less than 1.2m deep may not require support if the ground is firm, provided
that proper safety procedures exist and are always carried out and monitored.
• All excavations deeper than 1.2 m must have their sides adequately supported or be
battered back to a safe slope.
• Excavation; angle of repose.
1) The side of an excavation more than 5 feet deep shall be sloped as prescribed in
figure 1, unless supported as prescribed in this part.
2) An excavation less than 5 feet in depth shall also be effectively protected when
examination of the ground indicates hazardous earth movement may be expected.
3) If 1 side of a trench is 5 feet or less in depth and the other side is deeper than 5 feet,
the side deeper than 5 feet shall be protected as provided in this part. All excavated
material shall be placed on the low side if possible.
4) Special attention shall be given to a side that may be adversely affected by weather
or moisture content.

Figure I:MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE ANGLE OF REPOSE FOR THE SIDE OF AN EXCAVATION IN EXCESS OF 5' DEPTH

• One cubic meter of earth weights approximately 1.3 tones, even if this does not kill a
person or persons it is capable of inflicting very serious and disabling injuries.

5.2 Preparation
Before any excavation work is carried out the following procedures and actions will be
carried out.
1) The ground conditions mentioned above will be determined by predetermined soil
analysis, boreholes or trial pits.
2) Hand digging requirements will be established for exposing existing utilities.
3) A determination with regard to the system of support to be used.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 6

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

5.3 Before Work Starts

In order to begin excavation work with minimum risk to men, plant and equipment and
to enable the work to proceed without interruption, the following factors must be
considered well before the job starts:

1) Size and purpose of the excavation.

2) Nature of the ground including the proximity of made-up ground.
3) Stability of adjacent structures.
4) Position of underground obstructions such as pipes, electric cables, and other
utilities.
5) Weather and soil moisture conditions, especially high water table.
6) Sources of soil vibrations (highway traffic, railroads, machinery, etc.).
7) Adjacent roads and footpaths.
8) Method of excavation.
9) Excavation plan submitted to HSE.

Consideration of these factors will indicate the safety measures which must be
implemented to proceed with the job and whether the sides of the excavation can be
sloped and benched to a safe angle or whether other protective systems will be required.
It is important to provide adequate and suitable protective systems for use whenever
excavation work is to be carried out to a depth of 1.5 meters (5 feet) or more.
Excavation work to a depth of less than 1.5 meters (5 feet) may also require protective
systems.

5.4 Work Permit

Work permits must be obtained from the appropriate operations supervisor before
excavation work is started in any POGC facility, including residential areas and
roadways, and in any place where the presence of underground/utility obstructions is
known or suspected. Outside of clearly defined responsibility areas, work permits shall
be obtained from the Superintendent, Utilities and the Communications Foreman, Oil
and Gas Dispatch Unit or their delegated representatives. A Confined Space Entry Work
Permit is a second work permit and is required for trenches deeper than 1.2 meters (4
feet). (See MA-64-POGC-001 for work permit requirements.)

All protective shoring systems and configurations, such as timber shoring, hydraulic and
pneumatic systems, sloping, benching, shielding, sheet piling and freezing must be
designed in accordance with POGC HSE requirements. Excavation plans must be
submitted to HSE before work start up.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 7

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

5.5 Execution of the Work

During the process of earth removal the following safe working procedure will be
followed:
1) Personnel will be kept clear of machinery whilst it is operation, minimum
distance of 5 meters.
2) Barriers and signs will be erected to keep unauthorized personnel clear.
3) Trucks used for the removal of spoil will be controlled and sited by a banks man.
4) The ongoing provision of side supports shall be programmed into the work to
maintain the integrity of the excavation.
5) Personnel engaged in hand digging operations will be briefed on the actions to be
taken when uncovering marker tiles, cables, pipe work etc.
6) Excavated soil will be stacked a minimum distance of one meter from the edge
of the excavation edge.
7 ) Due to stricking People by plant following cares should be done :
− Keep workers separate from moving plant such as excavators. Where this is
not possible use safe systems of work to prevent people being struck.
− Plant operators should be competent.

5.6 Support
The manner of side and structural support may be of the following types:
1) Sloped back to a safe angle of repose as required by the soil conditions.
2) Shored by timber or steel support piles/sheets, timbers should be close
boarded and braced, sheet piles should be interlocked.
3) Provision of trench or drag boxes for trenching activities which are pulled along
as the work progresses.
So consider the followings:
• Do not go into unsupported excavations.

• Never work ahead of the support.

• Remember that even work in shallow trenches can be dangerous. You may
need to provide support if the work involves bending or kneeling in the trench.

5.7 Completion
The completed excavation will be provided with the following:
1) Means of escape from the excavation will be provided at 8 meter intervals by
purpose built staircases or ladders.
2) The need for gas tests will be determined and if necessary no work will be
3) Carried out unless a gas test has been done and the permit validated.
4) Walkways a minimum of 600 mm wide will be placed across trenches where

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 8

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

5) access is required and shall be fitted with handrails.

6) Uncovered services and utilities will be adequately supported by
propping/slinging or any other method identified as appropriate.

5.8 General Consideration

The following general considerations will be applied for the purpose of this procedure:
1) Dewatering equipment shall be sited in locations that avoid creating trip hazards.
2) Electric pumps used for dewatering shall be covered by the temporary electric
procedure and shall only be worked on by authorized persons.
3) Where numerous electric dewatering pumps are in use, a numbering systems
shall be employed that identifies the panel and distribution points.
4) Excavations shall be checked daily or before use by a competent person
employed by the Subcontractor who is experienced in recognizing signs of
subsidence or other evidence of potential failure of the support system.
5) Following any sudden rainfalls or other environmental conditions that may affect
the integrity of the excavation.
6) Subcontractor shall keep a register of all excavations with details and records of
checks made including date of back filling and any other pertinent points related to
the history of the excavation. These records will be kept in the office of the
Subcontractor controlling the work.
7) Adequate lighting will be provided for any work scheduled during the hours of
darkness. Consideration shall include glare factors, working in shadow and
sufficient illumination to cover the area worked.
8) When there are possible of existence of underground services (for example pipes
or electrical cables), other parties such as electrical , piping and any other related
departments should be informed and their representatives should be involved in
excavation operation.

5.9 Backfill

Backfilling and removal of trench supports shall be accomplished first by

backfilling up to a level allowing for the removal of the lower braces. Another layer
of backfill shall be positioned in the trench to the next layer of braces to be
removed. Removal of trench supports shall progress together with the backfill from
the bottom of the trench. In unstable soil, ropes shall be used to pull out the jacks
or braces from above after employees have cleared the trench. All excavations shall
be backfilled and consolidated, and the surface shall be left in good condition as
soon as is practicable.
Backfill operations shall be carried out in accordance with the following guidelines :
1) Backstops will be provided for vehicle dumping material to prevent them over

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 9

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

running the edge.

2) Consideration will be given to the specification for compaction qualities need for
tile markers and tiles and other protection measures necessary for the protection
of equipment.
3) Redundant spoil not backfilled will be removed to an area identified in advance.
4) A safe system of work will be identified and implemented for the removal of
timber supports, steel sheeting and piles. Consideration will include provision of
lifting appliances suitable to take the load of embedded sheet piles without
damage.
5) The contractor superintendent will ensure that new facilities are clearly reflected
in the as-built drawings.
6) So A competent person must inspect excavations as followings :
• at the start of each shift before work begins;
• after any event likely to have affected the strength or stability of the
excavation;
• after any accidental fall of rock, earth or other material.
• A written report should be made after most inspections. Stop work if the
inspection shows the excavation to be unsafe.

5.10 Safe Practices Reminder

5.10.1 Before work starts.
1) All excavation work must be planned.
− Before digging any excavations, it is important to plan against the following:
− collapse of the sides;
− materials falling onto people working in the excavation;
− people and vehicles falling into the excavation;
− people being struck by plant;
− undermining nearby structures;
− contact with underground services;.
− access to the excavation;
− fumes; and
− accidents to members of the public.
Make sure the necessary equipment needed such as trench sheets, props,
baulks, etc, is available on site before work starts.
2) Before digging begins on site, check that arrangements have been made to :
a) Locate underground services - check with all utility companies, look for
indicator posts, use cable and pipe detectors.
b) Establish ground conditions and design an adequate support system.
c) Consider the interaction of proposed excavations and existing structures

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 10

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

i. Will the excavation de-stabilize existing structures?

ii. Do the existing structures have adequate foundations?

Figure II-1
iii. Has the ground already been disturbed?
d) Provide edge protection for all excavations, use projecting trench sheets or
other solid barriers where possible. If a person could fall more than 2 m,
suitable barriers must be provided.
e) Ensure the person directly supervising the work is fully experienced and
competent in the support of excavations. Due to falling Materials into
excavations Following cares should be done :
− Do not store spoil or other materials close to the sides of excavations.
The spoil may fall into the excavation and the extra loading will make
the sides more prone to collapse.
− Make sure the edges of the excavation are protected against falling
materials. Provide toe boards where necessary.
− Wear a hard hat when working in excavations

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 11

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

f) Obtain the necessary drawings or sketches.

g) Brief and instruct operatives.
h) Provide site security, particularly in relation to preventing children getting on
to the site.
i) Establish adequate working space for plant and for spoil heaps (spoil heaps
and materials should not be less than 1 m from the edge of the excavation).
j) Construct bridges or gangways as required.
k) Provide sufficient ladders secured against movement.
l) Assess need for lighting.
m) Issue appropriate protective clothing and equipment.
5.10.2 During the work
1) The excavation and its supports must be inspected by a competent person at the
start of each shift, to address the following questions:
a) Is access to and from the work face sufficient and secure?
b) Are all working faces secure wedges tight and support material free from
damage?
c) Is there any sign of movement or deflection in the support system? Is the soil
condition as predicted? If not, what action should be taken?
d) Are spoil heaps an adequate distance back from the trench edge?

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 12

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II-2

e) Are pipes, bricks and other material, plant etc., well clear of the edge so that
there is no risk of them falling into the trench or of vibration causing danger
to the support?
f) Is the method statement being properly followed in installing the support?

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 13

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

(This is particularly important in relation to the spacing of walling and struts)

g) Are regular tests for gases or fumes being carried out? Is ventilation
required? Have risks of flooding been properly assessed?
h) Where pumping is necessary, is a proper watch being kept to make sure that
fine material is not being drawn out from behind the support system?
i) Is resuscitation equipment available and a nominated person trained to use it?
j) Do Have all persons been instructed in evacuation procedures and the correct
rescue procedure to follow if someone is overcome by gases or fumes in the
trench?
k) Are operatives wearing safety helmets? Is any other protective equipment
needed?
l) Is the work adequately protected and marked during the day? Is it fenced, or
covered, and lit at night? Are watchmen needed?
m) Have access bridges for plant and vehicles crossing the excavation been
designed by competent persons?
n) Where backfilling is required, are vehicle stop blocks in position?
Thereby: A competent supervisor should answer following questions
and meet the related requirements :

1. Is there enough support for the excavation, or has it been sloped or

battered back to a safe angle?
2. Is a safe method used for putting in the support, without people
working in an unsupported trench? Is there safe access into the
excavation, eg a sufficiently long, secured ladder?
3. Are there barriers or other protection to stop people and vehicles
falling in?
4. Are properly secured stop blocks provided to prevent tipping
vehicles falling in?
5. Could the excavation affect the stability of neighbouring structures
or services?

6. Are materials, spoil and plant stored away from the edge of the
excavation to reduce the chance of a collapse?
7. Is the excavation regularly inspected by a competent person?

5.10.3 After the work

After finishing the excavation operations, the civil supervisor must be sure that:
1) The excavation is in stable situation
2) Raining cant cause any stone or soil falling

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 14

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

3) The excavated area has been protected from vehicle or persons falling in
4) The extra soils and stones has been carried out of area
5) Daily inspection is ongoing
6) Environment has been received the least changes

5.10.4 Excavation at out site

Some of excavations should be done out of site. In this regard, excavation permit should
be taken from relative companies such as any relative phases, PSEEZ and POGC.
They will be responsible for checking their underground facilities and after taking their
permit, the IOIC permit should be taken.
If any public road needs to be obstructed, closed or changes to temporary roads, the
police agreement must be is required.
The attached permit will be use for this item.

5.11 Excavation near Telephone Cables

To avoid disruptions of service and unnecessary costs which result from the accidental
cutting of Government telephone cables by contractors working on POGC projects,
proponents should urge their contractors to inquire about the location of such cables
prior to excavation.

5.12 Underground Obstructions

Whenever the presence of underground pipes, cables, vessels, or structures is known or

suspected, mechanical excavators shall not be used until all such obstructions have been
exposed by hand digging. Mechanical excavators shall not be used within 3 meters (10
feet) of any such obstruction. Pneumatic breakers shall only be used where necessary to
break concrete or other hard surfaces.

5.13 General Precautions

5.13.1 Shoring Protective Systems

As soon as an excavation reaches a depth of 1.2 meters (4 feet) or soil banks are
greater than 1.5 meters (5 feet), suitable shoring shall be installed or the sides
sloped back to a safe angle. Shoring may be of timber or any other suitable
material, such as steel sheet piling.

The determination of the angle of slopes, benches, (See Figure II.3) or the
choice and design of other protective systems shall be based on evaluation of
pertinent factors such as: type of soil (Type A, B, or C), depth of cut; possible

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 15

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

variations in water content of the material while the excavation is open;

anticipated changes in materials from exposure to air, sun, or water; loading
imposed by structures, equipment, overlying material, or stored material; and
vibrations from equipment, blasting, traffic, or other sources.

Excavations shall not be sloped at an angle greater than one and one-half
horizontal to one vertical (34° measured from the horizontal). Plans for sloping
and benching systems shall be sent to HSE for review. (See Figures II.3, II.4,
II.5.)

Shoring systems shall be designed by a qualified person and meet accepted

engineering requirements. Materials used shall be in good serviceable
condition, and timbers shall be sound, free from large or loose knots, and of
proper dimensions.

5.13.2 Personnel Protection

Portable trench boxes or sliding trench shields may be used for the protection of
personnel in lieu of a shoring system or sloping. Where such trench boxes are
used, the design shall be approved by POGC .

Trench boxes shall be designed, constructed and maintained to provide

protection equal to or greater than the sheeting or shoring required.

Shields shall be installed in a manner to restrict lateral or other movement of the

shield and be capable of withstanding any sudden application of lateral loads.

Shields shall be extended above the excavation to protect employees working

inside the shields and when entering or exiting the areas protected by shields.

Employees shall not be allowed inside the shielded areas whenever shields are
being installed, removed or moved (see Figure II.7).

5.13.3 Inspection

All parts of an excavation, including the shoring, shall be inspected every day by
a competent person to ensure that there is no danger of collapse and all
observations shall be noted in the site safety log book.

5.13.4 Clearance

In order to provide a safe footing at the edge, and to prevent spoil falling into an
excavation, a clear space at least 0.6 meter (2 feet) wide shall be maintained on

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 16

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

all sides. (See Figure II.8: Guide to Safe Distance Back From Top Of Slope For
Storage of Materials / Equipment Placing.)

5.13.5 Mechanical Excavator

Men shall not be permitted to work underneath loads or in places where they
could be struck by any part of a mechanical excavator.

5.13.6 Walkways

Where employees, equipment, or members of the public are required or

permitted to cross over an excavation, a close planked bridge or walkway with
standard guard rails shall be provided and kept clear of excavated materials or
other tripping hazards. No sidewalk shall be undermined unless properly
shored.

5.14 Access and Egress

Safe means of getting into and out of an excavation shall be provided at

intervals not exceeding 7.5 meters (25 feet). Ladders shall conform to the
requirements set out in Section 9.2, be placed at an angle of 75°, and extend at
least 0.9 meter (3 feet) above the stepping-off point. Ladders shall be securely
fixed.

5.15 Hazardous Atmospheres and Materials

5.15 .1 Ventilation

Where there is reason to suspect oxygen deficiency or the presence of a

hazardous atmosphere in an excavation, gas tests must be carried out by a
qualified person. Where necessary, mechanical ventilation shall be used, or
other appropriate precautions shall be taken before men enter.

Note: Toxic, oxygen and flammable gas tests are to be conducted before
entering hazardous excavations in Restricted Areas (as mentioned in MA-64-
POGC-001).

5.15.1.1 Hazardous Atmospheres

Prior to entry into excavations greater than four feet deep, or confined
spaces, a work permit shall be issued. Gas tests shall verify that the
oxygen level is 20-21%, combustible gases 0.0 LEL, and H2S is 0

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 17

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

ppm. For elevated levels of gases tested follow requirements of MA-

64-POGC-001. Corrective measurers may include use of air movers,
identification and isolation of sources from fuel lines, sewers, open
tanks or other measures to return the breathing atmosphere to normal
readings. Subsequent testing is required to monitor the area during
the work so appropriate precautions can be taken as necessary.

• Precautions shall be taken to prevent employee exposure to an

atmosphere containing a concentration of any flammable gas
above its lower explosive limit (LEL).

• For an atmosphere with a concentration of any flammable gas

below its lower explosive limit (LEL), use the guidelines given in
MA-64-POGC-001 (Work Permit System) as shown below:

• Above 0.0 LEL - No hot work permitted

• 0.05 LEL to 0.5 LEL - Breathing apparatus must be used
• Above 0.5 LEL - No entry permitted

• When controls are used that are intended to reduce the level of
atmospheric contaminants to acceptable levels, testing shall be
conducted as often as necessary to ensure that the atmosphere
remains safe.

5.15.1.2 Emergency Rescue Equipment

(i) Emergency rescue equipment, such as breathing apparatus, a

safety harness and line, or a basket stretcher, shall be readily available
where hazardous atmospheric conditions exist or may develop during
work in an excavation. This equipment shall be attended by a standby
man outside the trench when in use.

(ii) Employees entering bell-bottom pier holes, or other similar deep

and confined footing excavations, shall wear a harness with a lifeline
attached to it. The lifeline shall be separate from any line used to
handle materials, and shall be individually attended at all times while
the employee wearing the lifeline is in the excavation. Mechanical
devices shall be available to lift incapacitated employees from
excavations.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 18

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

5.15.2 Exhaust Gases

Where an internal combustion engine is used in an excavation, special

precautions must be taken to ensure that exhaust gases are discharged so as not
to be a hazard to men working in the excavation.

5.15.3 Organic Lead

Where the presence of buried organic lead (TEL) sludge, asbestos or any other
hazardous chemical is known or suspected, whether in a Restricted Area or not,
excavation work shall not be started (or continued) until the Industrial Hygiene
Service and HSE Departments have identified the hazard and specified the
precautions to be taken and a new work permit has been issued.

5.16 Edge Protection, Markers and Fixed Lighting

Whenever it is necessary to place or operate power shovels, derricks, trucks, materials,

soil banks or other heavy objects on a level above and near an excavation, the side of the
excavation shall be sheet-piled, shored, and braced as necessary to resist the extra
pressure due to such superimposed loads. When mobile equipment is utilized or allowed
adjacent to excavations, substantial stop logs or barricades shall be installed. If possible,
the grade should be away from the excavation. If men or vehicles are in the vicinity
after dark, fixed warning lights shall be used to mark the limits of the work.

5.17 Roads, Streets, and Sidewalks

Excavation work in roads, streets, and sidewalks shall not be undertaken without the
prior approval of the relevant authorities (See Section II.1, Work Permit System).
Excavation work on public highways will have to be cleared in advance with
Government Affairs and any special measures that they might specify must be
implemented (See Section II.8, Roadworks).

5.18 Borrow Pits

Location of borrow pit boundaries (i.e., residential, industrial plants, sub-stations,

highways, etc.) shall be located at the distance noted in.

5.18.1 A separate traffic flow plan is required to keep pedestrian traffic away from
vehicle traffic areas. Traffic is strictly prohibited in borrow pit areas. Signs in
Farsi and English shall be posted in roped-off areas, warning personnel to stay
out of borrow pits.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 19

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

5.18.2 Dust concentration, noise levels, and security fencing associated with borrow
pit operations shall be in accordance with POGC Safe Operating Procedures.

5.18.3 Hydraulic Shoring For Trenches

Hydraulic shoring is provided as a method of protection against cave-ins in

trenches that do not exceed 20 feet (6.1 m) in depth. Trench depths exceeding
20 feet (6.1 m) require HSE review.

It is not intended that the aluminum hydraulic specifications apply to every

situation that may be experienced in the field. These data were developed to
apply to the situations that are most commonly experienced in current trenching
practice. Situations that are not covered require specific designs for specific
applications and will be subject to HSEreview. (See Figures II.9, II.10, II.11,
and II.12.)

5.18.4 Timber Shoring For Trenches

Timber shoring is provided as a method of protection from cave-ins in trenches

that do not exceed 20 feet (6.1m) in depth. HSE requirements must be used
when timber shoring protective systems are designed. (See Figures II.13, II.14,
II.15 and II.16.)

5.19 Tips and excavation

The construction of excavations, tips and lagoons should be set out in the tips and
excavation rules. The rules covering tipping and excavation must be clear. Many incidents
occur from falling rock off faces and from falling equipment off tips. These are all matters
that should be addressed in the design of the quarry and will involve the geotechnical
specialist who can advise on the strength and stability of the tip and tipping point. For
example how close to an edge the equipment can tip, the thickness of the layers and
compaction needed. From this the suitability of the equipment can be determined. The
direction of faces being excavated to minimise cost, maximise fragmentation and stability
will also help productivity as well as maximise safety. Again face heights and suitability of
equipment will be determined. Too many drivers are killed and injured while working on
stockpiles and tips. Look closely at your procedures and make sure that this danger is
eliminated

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 20

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure III-1

5.19.1 Layered Compacted Tip

These tips are inherently more stable than end tipped tips. The material is tipped and compacted
into layers by the earth moving machinery or by vibrating rollers. The selection of equipment is
important. Often dozers and dump trucks are not correctly sized and the material is tipped in too
thick layers to be effective and the tip becomes an advanced face tip. The rules will embrace the
recommendations set out in the design report. It is important that the tip is properly drained, that
the distance equipment can approach edges and the position and size of the edge protection is set
out. The maximum height of each bench and the extent of the tip must be set out and what to do if
a defect is found. The supervision requirements must be set out. The inspection and maintenance
scheme will be monitoring the rules and how the tip is built.

Figure III-2

5.19.2 Advancing face tips

These tips are constructed by a vehicle or conveyor tipping material away from the edge of the tip
and the material pushed forward by a dozer. The design of the tip will stipulate the foundations and
drainage requirements, heights of benches or tipping layers, how close the tipping vehicles can

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 21

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

approach the edge of the tip, typically at least 8m and therefore where the edge protection should
be positioned.

Typically rear dump trucks and wheel loaders go over the edge of the tips due to the inherent
instability of the outer edge. The rules should stipulate the type of vehicle that can use the tip.

Figure III-3

Even dozers should not push the edge of the tip clear. The rules should set out how the tip is to be
constructed, the type of equipment that can be used, the supervision and the inspection and
maintenance required for the tip. This will form part of the inspection and maintenance scheme for
the quarry.

These tips are less compact than layered tips and therefore potentially less stable. The material
creates natural slip lines as it is built and any failures will occur on these lines, which can combine
with poor foundations. These tips must not be left with block tipped materials on top as water will
drain down the potential slip plains. Note edge protection must be maintained around the tip when
vehicles use them.

Figure III-4

5.19.3 Face heights

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 22

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

The heights of faces must be stable in themselves but also within the reach of the equipment that is
being used to load from them. In sand and gravel quarries then the equipment should reach the face
tops. This may be done by splitting the faces. Operators will need to justify by means of a
geotechnical report the stability of the faces where this is not done.

Figure III-5

5.19.4 Tips and stockpiles

Stockpiles are now treated as tips. Because of the way in which they have been built they will have
inherent planes where sliding may occur

Figure III-6

5.19.5 Tipping near tip and excavation edges

The distance that vehicles can approach edges and position of edge protection must be clearly
stated in the rules. Tip edges will collapse during the day or overnight and must be a specific part
of the maintenance and testing scheme. The rules must state what to do it defects are found.
Drainage and foundations are particularly important as are the presence of relic structures and
bedding in the material.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 23

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure III-7

5.19.6 Tipping and excavating the same stockpile

This is one of the most hazardous operations in a quarry. Where ever vehicles approach the edges
of tips and excavations the operator has to ensure that the material will not fail under the vehicles
weight. In the case of stockpiles there will be inherent failure planes from the way the stockpile
was built. The loading machine may undercut the face and cause failure

Special precautions should be taken and identified in the rules and supervision should be
appropriate. The maintenance and testing schemes will also have to address these issues

6. TRAINING :

Contractor shall ensure that theirs employees who enter to excavation must be
trained.
All employees involved in excavation activity shall be trained in hazards
associated with these activities and in the emergency action to take if an underground
utility or structure is hit or broken during digging or excavation.
Employees, who work in or around excavation, must be provided training
according to their work activity.
All Contractors shall ensure that all personnel working at the work site are trained
and aware of the hazards of digging, trenching and excavation.
Contractors shall ensure that all theirs persons working in and around trenching
and other excavation activities do so in a safe manner.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 24

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

7. DEFINITIONS :

Accepted Engineering and Construction Practices

Plans for excavations and protective system methods shall be submitted to HSE
before work start up.

Benching

A method of protecting employees from cave-ins by excavating the sides of an

excavation to form one or a series of horizontal steps, with a vertical rise
between steps.

Excavation

Any man-made cavity or depression in the earth's surface, including its sides,
walls, or faces, formed by earth removal and producing unsupported earth
conditions by reason of the excavation.

Hydraulic Shoring

A pre-engineered support system of aluminum hydraulic cylinders (cross-

braces) used with vertical rods (uprights) or horizontal rods designed
specifically to support side walls of an excavation to prevent cave-in.

Protective Systems

Methods used to protect employees from cave-ins, from materials that could fall
or roll into the excavation onto the workers or from collapse of adjacent
structures. Protective systems include supports, sloping and benching, shields
and other means to protect workers.

Shoring

Hydraulic, timber or mechanical systems that support the sides of an excavation,

designed to prevent cave-ins.

Sloping

A method of excavating in which the sides of an excavation are laid back to a

safe angle to prevent cave-ins. (The safe angle required varies with different
types of soil, exposure to the elements and superimposed loads. There is no

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 25

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

single angle of repose. Soil classification must be identified to select safe

sloping and benching methods.)

Soil Classification System

A method of categorizing soil and rock deposits as types A, B, and C in

decreasing order of stability. Soil type is determined by analysis of the soil's
properties and how it performs under exposure to the elements and
superimposed loads.

Type A:

Cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength of 1.5 ton per square
foot (tc) (144kPa) or greater are classified as Type A. Examples of cohesive
soils are: clay, silty clay, sandy clay, clay loam and in some cases, silty clay
loam and sandy clay loam. Cemented soils such as caliche and hardpan are also
considered Type A. However, no soil is Type A if one or more of the following
conditions are true:

(i) The soil is fissured.

(ii) The soil is subject to vibration from heavy traffic, pile driving, or similar
effects.
(iii) The soil has been previously disturbed.
(iv) The soil is part of a sloped, layered system where the layers dip into the
excavation on a slope of four horizontal to one vertical (4H:1V) or greater.
(v) The material is subject to other factors that would require it to be
classified as a less stable material.

Type B:

Soils classified as Type B are:

(i) Cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength greater than 0.5
tsf (48 kPa) but less than 1.5 tsf (144 kPa).
(ii) Granular cohesionless soils including angular gravel (similar to crushed
rock), silt, silt loam, sandy loam and, in some cases, silty clay loam and
sandy loam clay.
(iii) Previously disturbed soils except those which would otherwise be classed
as Type C soil.
(iv) Soil that meets the unconfined compressive strength or cementation
requirements for Type A, but is fissured or subject to vibration.
(v) Dry rock that is not stable.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 26

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

(vi) Material that is part of a sloped, layered system where the layers dip into
the excavation on a slope less steep than four horizontal to one vertical
(4H:1V) but only if the material would otherwise be classified as Type B.

Type C:

Soils classified as Type C are:

(i) Cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength of 0.5 tsf (48 kPa)
or less.
(ii) Granular soils including gravel, and loamy sand.
(iii) Submerged soil or soil from which water is freely seeping.
(iv) Submerged rock that is not stable.
(v) Material in a sloped layered system where the layers dip into the
excavation or a slope of four horizontal to one vertical (4H:1V).

Trench Boxes:

A structure that is able to withstand the forces imposed on it by cave-ins, and in

the process, protects employees inside the structure. (Plans for trench boxes are
to be submitted to HSE.)

Trench Excavation

A narrow excavation made below the surface of the ground. In general, the
depth is greater than the width, but the width of a trench is not greater than 4.5
meters (15 feet).

8. REFERENCES :
1) OSHA revised Subpart P, Excavations, of 29 CFR 1926.650, 29 CFR 1926.651, and 29
CFR 1926.652
2) Inspections and reports CIS 47 HSE Books 1997
3) Health and safety in construction HSG150 HSE Books1996 ISBN 0 7176 1143 4
Protecting the public: Your next move HSG151
4) HSE Books 1997 ISBN 0 7176 1148 5
5) HSE home page on the World Wide Web:http://www.open.gov.uk/hse/hsehome.htm
The leaflet includes mandatory requirements under the Construction (Health, Safety and
Welfare) Regulations 1996. These are shown in bold type.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 27

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

9. APPENDIX :

Table 1: Maximum Allowable Slopes

SOIL OR ROCK TYPE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE SLOPES

(H:V) [1] FOR EXCAVATIONS LESS
THAN 20 FEET DEEP [3]

STABLE ROCK VERTICAL (90°)

TYPE A [2] 3/4 : 1 (53°)
TYPE B 1:1 (45°)
TYPE C 1-1/2 : 1 (34°)

NOTES:

1. Numbers shown in parentheses next to maximum allowable

slopes are angles expressed in degrees from the horizontal.
Angles have been rounded off.

2. A short term maximum allowable slope of 1/2H : 1V (63°) is

allowed in excavations in Type A soil that are 12 feet (3.67 m) or
less in depth. Short-term maximum allowable slopes for
excavations greater than 12 feet (3.67 m) in depth shall be
3/4H:1V (53°).

3. Sloping or benching for excavations greater than 20 feet deep

shall be reviewed by HSE.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 28

 PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Slope Configurations

(All slopes stated below are in the horizontal to vertical ratio)

Figure II.3: Excavations Made In Type A Soil

1. All simple slope excavation 20 feet or less in depth shall have amaximum allowable slope of 3/4:

2. Exception: Simple slope excavation which are open 24 hours or less (short term) and
which are 12 feet or less in depth shall have a maximum allowable slope of 1/2:1

3. All bebched excavation 20 feet or less in depth shall have a maximum allowable slope of 3/4 to 1
and maximum bench dimentions as follows:

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 29

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.3A

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 30

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.4: Excavations Made In Type B Soil

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 31

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.4A
SINGLE BENCH

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 32

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.5: Excavations Made In Type C Soils

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 33

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.6: Excavations Made In Layered Soils

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 34

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.6A: Excavations Made In Layered Soils

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 35

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.7: Examples Of Trench shields

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 36

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.8: Guide To Safe Distance Back From Top Of Slope For Storage Of Materials Or
Placing Equipment

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 37

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.9: Examples Of Screw Trench Jacks

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 38

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.10: Aluminum Hydraulic Shoring Typical Installations

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 39

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.11: Aluminum Hydraulic Shoring

Vertical Shores for Soil Type A

Hydraulic Cylinders
Width Of Trench

Depth of Maximum Maximum Up to 8 Over 8 up Over 12 up

Trench Horizontal Vertical to 12 to 15
Feet Spacing Spacing
Over 5 8 4 2 inch 2 inch 3 inch
up to 10 diameter diameter diameter
Over 10 8 4 2 inch 2 inch 3 inch
up to 15 diameter diameter diameter
Over 15 7 4 2 inch 2 inch 3 inch
up to 20 diameter diameter diameter

Over 20 Loss Prevention Review

Vertical Shores for Soil Type B

Hydraulic Cylinders
Width Of Trench

Depth of Maximum Maximum Up to 8 Over 8 up Over 12 up

Trench Horizontal Vertical to 12 to 15
Feet Spacing Spacing
Over 5 8 4 2 inch 2 inch 3 inch
up to 10 diameter diameter diameter
Over 10 6.5 4 2 inch 2 inch 3 inch
up to 15 diameter diameter diameter
Over 15 5.5 4 2 inch 2 inch 3 inch
up to 20 diameter diameter diameter

Over 20 HSE Review

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 40

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.12: Aluminum Hydraulic Shoring Waler Systems For Soil Type B

wales hydrulic cylinders timber uprights

max horizental
dept width of trench (feet) spacing
vertiac sectio
h of (on center)
al n
trenc up to 8 8 to 12 12 to 16
spacin modu
h cylinde cylinde cylinde
g lus horiz horiz horiz solid
(feet) r r r 2 ft. 3 ft.
(feet) (in3) spaci spaci spaci sheet
diamet diamet diamet
ng ng ng
er er er
over 3.5 8.0 2 in 8.0 2 in 8.0 3 in
3*1
6 up 4 7.0 9.0 2 in 9.0 2 in 9.0 3 in ---- ---
2
to 10 14.0 12.0 3 in 12.0 3 in 12.0 3 in
over 3.5 6.0 2 in 6.0 2 in 6.0 3 in
10 7.0 8.0 3 in 8.0 3 in 8.0 3 in 3*1
4 ---- ---
up to 2
14.0 10.0 3 in 10.0 3 in 10.0 3 in
15
over 3.5 5.5 2 in 5.5 2 in 5.5 3 in
15 7.0 6.0 3 in 6.0 3 in 6.0 3 in
4 3*12 --- ---
up to
14.0 9.0 3 in 9.0 3 in 9.0 3 in
20
over
4 note: loss prevention review
20

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 41

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.13: Example Of Timber Shoring Protective Systems

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 42

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II. 14: Timber Trench Shoring - Minimum Timber Requirements*

size (actual)and spacing of members **

cross braces wales uprights
depth
max. allowable horizental
of width of trench (feet)
horiz. vert. vert. spacing (feet)
trench size
spacing up up up up up spacing spacing
(feet) (in.)
(feet) to to to to to (feet) (feet) close 4 5 6 8
4 6 9 12 15
not
up to 6 4*4 4*4 4*6 6*6 6*6 4 --- 2*6
req.
not
up to 8 4*4 4*4 4*6 6*6 6*6 4 --- 2*8
5 to req.
10 up to
4*6 4*6 4*6 6*6 6*6 4 8*8 4 2*6
10
up to
4*6 4*6 6*6 6*6 6*6 4 8*8 4 2*6
12
not
up to 6 4*4 4*4 4*6 6*6 6*6 4 --- 3*8
req.
up to 8 4*6 4*6 6*6 6*6 6*6 4 8*8 4 2*6
10 to
up to
15 6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 4 8*10 4 2*6
10
up to
6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 4 10*10 4 3*8
12
up to 6 6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 4 6*8 4 3*6
up to 8 6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 4 8*8 4 3*6
15 to up to
8*8 8*8 8*8 8*8 8*10 4 8*10 4 3*6
20 10
up to
8*8 8*8 8*8 8*8 8*10 4 10*10 4 3*6
12
over
note: loss prevention review
20
(soil type a) pa= 25xh+72 psf (2 ft. surcharge)
* Mixed oak or equivalent with a bending strength not less than 850 psi
** Manufactured members of equivalent strength may be substitude for wood

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 43

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

(SOIL TYPE A) Pa = 45XH+72 psf (2 ft. Surcharge)

* Mixed oak or equivalent with a bending strength not less than 850 psi
** Manufactured members of equivalent strength may be substitude for wood
size (actual)and spacing of members **
cross braces wales uprights
vert max. allowable horizental
width of trench (feet)
depth of . vert. spacing (feet)
trench horiz. spa spaci
size
(feet) spacing up cin ng
up up up up to (in.) clos
(feet) to g (feet 2 3
to 4 to 6 to 9 15 e
12 (fee )
t)
up to 6 4*6 4*6 6*6 6*6 6*6 5 6*8 5 2*6
up to 8 6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 5 8*10 5 2*6
up to 10 6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 5 10*10 5 2*6
5 to 10
see
up to 12 note
(1)
2*
up to 6 6*6 6*6 6*6 6*8 6*8 5 8*8 5
6
2*
up to 8 6*8 6*8 6*8 8*8 8*8 5 10*10 5
6
10 to 15
2*
up to 10 8*8 8*8 8*8 8*8 8*10 5 10*12 5
6
see note
(1)
up to 6 6*8 6*8 6*8 8*8 8*8 5 8*10 5 3*6
up to 8 8*8 8*8 8*8 8*8 8*10 5 10*12 5 3*6
8*1 8*1 8*1 8*1 10*1
15 to 20 up to 10 5 12*12 5 3*6
0 0 0 0 0
see note
(1)
over 20 note: loss prevention review

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 44

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.15: Timber Trench Shoring - Minimum Timber Requirements*

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 45

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Figure II.16: Timber Trench Shoring - Minimum Timber Requirements*

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 46

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

1- APPENDIX I – Excavator Hand signals

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 47

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Appendix II – Excavation Slopes and shoring

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 48

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 49

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 50

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 51

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

APPENDIX III : Excavation and Tip Inspection Reports

Site Weather Last Date
Inspected
Condition of Excavated Face Feature Details of Condition and Location
Observed
Crests Yes No Details
Lowering of ground surface at or behind
the crest of the overall slope/bench
Cracking behind the crest of the overall
slope/bench
Water running over the crest of the
overall slope/bench
Water entering cracks behind the crest
of the overall slope/bench
New accumulations of water behind the
crest of the overall slope/bench
Surcharging of ground behind the crest
of the overall slope/bench
Face Yes No Details
Bulging of the slope face
Settlement of slope face
Displacement across joints / bedding
planes etc
Open structural features inclined > 10
degree out of the face
Open structural features inclined steeply
> 70 degrees out of the face

Loose material on the face

Irregular slope gradient
Irregularities in plan of the slope face
Water issuing from the face
Drainage blankets blocked
Toe Yes No Details
Ground movements at or in front of the

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 52

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

toe of the overall slope bench

Water issuing from or in front of the toe
of the overall slope/bench
New accumulation of water at the toe of
the overall slope/bench
Excavations at or near toe of structure
not as per design of quarry/tip

Condition of Excavated Face Feature Details of Condition and

Observed Location
Water courses/lagoons behind crest Yes No Details
Wave erosion of embankment / Bank
erosion
Inflow, outflow or storm overflow
impeded
Is freeboard less than specified in
tipping rules
Signs of damage due to animals
Escape of material in suspension or
solution
Indications of silting
Impending or partial blockages
Other Observations Yes No Details
Adverse drainage from access roads
Indications of recent ground
movements
Construction varying from plan or
tipping rules
Instruments damaged, recording
movements, or rises in water level
Recent or active rockfall
Recent or active slope failure
Unexpected geological conditions
appeared since last inspection
Other changes in slope condition or

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 53

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

features of note
Indications of burning
Variations from design
Benches & Haul Roads Yes No Details
Are the benches and haul roads stable
and without signs of failure
Any changes to the quarry geology or
slope conditions, that may affect
stability
Are haul roads of adequate width and
safe gradient
Are there excessive ruts, potholes or
bumps
Is edge protection adequate
Has the approved excavation procedure
been followed.
Are quarry loading areas of adequate
size

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 54

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Comments Action required

Safety & stability of the excavated slopes

Recommendations for immediate action

Signed .................... Date .............

Recommendations agreed or varied

Signed .................... Date .............

Action taken to remedy defects

Signed (Quarry Manager)

HSE 1M21a 2y2d01t

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 55

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

APPENDIX IV : Additional Information LIFE-LONG learning:

What is it?
The health and safety document demonstrates how you control the health and safety of your quarry
by identifying how the quarry operator plans, organises, controls, monitors and reviews the health
and safety measures at the quarry.
Remember: The operator must ensure that no work is carried out at the quarry unless a health and
safety document has been prepared to demonstrate that risks have been assessed and control
measures identified, put in place, followed and reviewed.
You should draw up a health and safety document which identifies the risks, identifies suitable
control measures, enables you to put the control measures in place, and review it to ensure that the
control measures are practical and work properly in the workplace, or modify them as necessary.
Is there a set format?
No, the document may be in any form.
However, it has to satisfy the following criteria:
• the quarry may not be worked without it;
• it has to be understood by anyone who reads it;
• the relevant parts have to be given to those with responsibilities in it;
• it has to be readily accessible to all quarry employees;
• it has to comprehensively identify risksv and control measures used;
• it has to set out the structure, duties, competencies and authority of the management;
• it has to set out how and when the control measures will be reviewed.

The following format is recommended.

Part 1 introduces the quarry. Outline its purpose, ie why and how it is worked.
Summaries the main risks and conclusions, or the risk assessment and control measures, showing:
• how the design has minimised risks;
• what the management structure is;
• what the co-ordination measures are and who is responsible;
• the competencies of those involved in the design and safe working of the quarry.

Part 2 includes the detailed design considerations, risk assessment and control measures, indexed
to the introduction and rules and schemes:
• the complexities of the site;
• the choice of equipment and fixed plant;
• the geotechnical measures;
• detailed information required by the Quarries Regulations and other relevant legislation.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 56

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

Part 3 should contain instructions, rules and schemes (ie the practical measures that ensure safe
working).

You do not have to repeat work done for other statutory authorities, as details will be the same. For
example the mineral planning authority under MPG5 requires the same geotechnical design criteria
as the Quarries Regulations. Ensure that both authorities are satisfied by one indexed,
comprehensive appendix and refer to it in the introduction.
What needs to be in it?
The content of the document is set out in regulations 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11-46 of the Quarries
Regulations and the accompanying guidance and ACOP. In essence it must address the design; the
management structure and how the health and safety is co-ordinated; the instructions,
rules and schemes; the competence and training of all personnel and the review procedure.
The details of this information come from the remaining Quarries Regulations and other relevant
legislation, such as COSHH and the Noise, Management, Workplace and Manual Handling
Regulations. It describes all the measures the operator has taken or will take to design, operate and
maintain the quarry to keep it safe and healthy.

How is competencedemonstrated?
Competence can be expressed in terms of national standards such as NVQ/SNVQ and membership
of professional institutes. It can also be by competent assessment. To remain competent you have
to undertake continual professional development (life-long learning). Companies should have a
policy on this and individuals should keep records. It is your commitment to a safe quarry.

Who can lookat it?

Anyone who works at or is affected by the quarry can look at the document. The safety committee
will need to use it as part of their routine work, to improve risk assessments and control measures.
Those carrying out specific work should be given the relevant parts and have the control measures
explained to them.
Who can make changes?
The operator will be continually reviewing it, making changes and informing staff of them.
The safety committee will discuss it as part of their inspection routine and may suggest changes. If
these are not accepted, the operator has to write to the committee stating why the changes have not
been implemented and this must be displayed for 28 days at the quarry.

Whoformsthesafetycommittee?
The committee can be formed by the majority of those who work regularly at the quarry, or the
operator can do it for you. Either way it does not affect your rights to inspect the quarry, review the
risk assessments and make suggestions for improvements to the health and safety document.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 57

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

As a member of a safety committee you are demonstrating continual professional development.

The quarry safety committee have the most extensive rights of any workers in Britain and it is in
your interests to use them wisely.
Control vehicle risks Control tip and excavation risks .

VEHICLE FALLS: tips for vehicles on tips

The health and safety document should show how the tip or stockpile was designed, how it is to be
built, the type of equipment that can be used safely on it, and how equipment is to be used.
Every tip or stockpile should be designed to ensure it is safe from movement and safe to build on
or load from.
• Have you seen the design?
• Has the tip/stockpile been built according to it?
• Are the rules for carrying out work safely suitable for the type of tip/stockpile being
built?
• Do these rules give the drivers enough information to work safely?
When carrying out an inspection of a tip or stockpile, either as part of the daily inspection scheme
or as part of the workman’s inspection, what should you look for?
What should the design address? How tips and stockpiles are built depends on what materials it is
to be built from, what shape it will be, what it will be built on and how much water it will contain.
These factors will influence how stable and safe the tip/stockpile is to work on.
Information on the nature of the materials to be used comes from the geotechnical specialist, who
can then say what shape can be built, whether the foundations are suitable and how the tip or
stockpile will be drained. The inspection and maintenance scheme is drawn up with the
geotechnical specialist to ensure that the scheme is suitable for the tip/stockpile and that the
management, supervisors and workforce know what to do if something goes wrong. Factors to
consider and discuss with the specialist include:
• Are dust or wet materials being tipped?
• Is the tip being excavated and tipped on?
• Do vehicles go near the edge of the tip and is edge protection in place?
• Can vehicles approach edges safely without causing them to fail?
• Does the method of construction min-imise the risks to those who work on the tip eg by
building in layers instead of advance face tipping?
• Are all drains kept open and maintained?
• Do they prevent water flowing over the face of the tip?
• Does someone need to measure the water levels in the tip?
• What are the effects of heavy rain and a rise in water table on the tip?
It is important to keep the geotechnical specialist informed about any changes to the tip/stockpile.
What should you look for in particular?
• Position of edge protection. The nature of the material being tipped will decide how

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 58

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

close a machine can approach the edge and therefore where the edge protec-tion should
be placed. How many tips have edge protection that falls away dur-ing the night and has
to be rebuilt in the morning because it has not been placed on a firm foundation? The
distance of the inner edge of the protection from the edge of the tip must be specified in
the document and rules. The geotechnical specialist who designed the tip will decide
this and it may vary if different types of materials are being tipped, or one conservative
distance to suit different materials may be given at the outset.
• Height of edge protection. The height of the edge protection will depend on the type of
equipment being used, the speed of approach and the material the protec-tion is to be
built from. The minimum height will be 1.5 m (5 feet), or the radius of the largest
wheel, whichever is the greater, and this will be adequate for slow approach speeds.
Where vehicles approach at faster speeds, or on bends etc, the height may have to be
three or four times the minimum to stop a vehicle. If the material used to construct the
edge protection is of a type that the height will decrease if it is hit, eg the height of a
sand barrier will be reduced if it is bumped by a tyre, the height must be increased so
that it is 1.5 m or the radius of the largest wheel after this shrinkage.
• Lighting. Drivers must be able to see where they are going, particularly when tipping.
Adequate lighting must be pro-vided especially in the winter months when it may be
dark at the start and fin-ish of shifts.
• Access. Roads should be wide enough for the vehicles using them: 2 x width on single-
track roads and 3.5 x width on double-track roads. They must not be at a steeper slope
than 1:10. This includes access on stockpiles. Suitability of equipment The type of
equipment that will be used is very important as each class of equipment has different
needs for its safe use.
• Size and capacity of equipment. The equipment should be matched in size to the tip
being built, and to other equipment eg the size of the bulldozer must be matched to the
dump trucks.

FA C E T H E FA C T S
When considering the design of the quarry face you have to take account of jointing, bedding
planes, faults, water pressure, clay and soft rock seams, weathering and voids.
You also need to think about damage you are doing through excavation with undercutting,
stress relief and blast damage, the excavation system and the size of the equipment you have on
site. In many cases the quarry faces are too high for the equipment used, and too high to minimise
fly rock and the risk from falls of ground and personnel. Some of the essential items you should
address when selecting machinery are shown below. Faces that have potential for instability should
be worked within the reach height of the equipment used, whether they are working in sand or hard

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 59

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

rock. Typically, wheel loaders can reach 6-8 m and excavators 9-12 m. Larger mining shovels (120
tonne or more) are capable of reaching 18-20 m depending on how they are used.
Checklist for designing quarry faces
• Does the geotechnical assessment identify planar, wedge, toppling, rotational or any
other type in bench failure mechanism or rock fall?
• Do you need a rock/sand trap? (If so, incorporate into design and rules.)
• Can the excavator/loader reach and capture material to the top of the face?
• Is the cab outside of rockfall/engulfment range? (It will need FOPs/ROPs.)
• Is the bucket sized to capture the largest rock?
• Is the loader/excavator and standing material stable?
• Is the benc h wide enough for loading and long-term maintenance operations including
access, drainage, scaling, stand-offs, edge protection and (where needed) rock/sand
traps?

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 60

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

• Design faces, benches and stand-offs stipulating widths, heights and angles and size
and type of loader/excavator. Write tip and excavation rules. If you can’t answer any
of the questions above, ask your geotechnical specialist for further advice. Use the
information from the geotechnical assessment to ensure that you are operating
according to the quarry design, and act upon any requirements for safety of faces or
tips within the necessary timescale.

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 61

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 62

PARS OIL & GAS COMPANY

SUGGESTIONS FOR THE POGC

EXCAVATION SAFETY PROCEDURE

MANAGER, HSE Department

Pars Oil & Gas Company
Tehran I.R. Iran

Please consider the following suggestion(s) relative to the POGC Excavation safety procedure:

(Signature)

(Date)

(Address)

Contact Telephone Number

Contact FAX Number

September 2012- EXCAVATION plan safety Page 63