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Things to Consider Before Starting an Excavation Project

10 May 2021

For the construction industry, the excavation process plays a pivotal part in completing its respective projects. Some projects require holes to effectively establish a solid and stable foundation for properties. Holes are likewise utilised to allow the installation of utility lines, poles, and other related elements.

Excavation, in general, involves the removal of soil, rock, and other particles from the ground to create open holes, trenches, tunnels, cavities and others. And typically, this process is carried out by excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, and other similar machinery. Since the whole excavation process may involve hazards and risks throughout the activity, project managers and all the involved personnel should take the necessary steps to keep the project safe and protect everyone from harm.

Before starting an excavation project, here are some things you should consider to ensure that everyone will be safe and that the project will be successful.

Know the Soil Type

One of the few things that you must always do before starting the excavation project is to identify the type of soil on site. The type of soil and other particles that can be found underground may vary based on location, depth, and other related factors. Knowing them before conducting the excavation process can be very useful in identifying the right method of digging as well as the appropriate digging tools. This process can likewise establish the necessary safety measures that can keep everyone safe.

Locate Utility Lines

Another important thing to consider before conducting any excavation project is the utilities that are buried underground. Most project areas have utility lines that are present underground. While most of them may have already been disabled, you must still contact the owners of these lines or services for them to confirm their current condition. Additionally, they can help in verifying the location of the utility lines as well as de-energising them so that any potential issues involving the lines can be averted.

Check Nearby Areas

Aside from knowing the soil type and locating the utility lines, you should also know the condition of your surrounding areas. Vehicles, equipment, and other elements that are constantly moving nearby can affect your ground since they often cause vibration. Buildings and structures that are close to your site can also affect your project as they may put pressure on the soil. Without considering your surroundings and setting up safety measures, the soil of your project as well as the walls of your trench may easily collapse.

Perform Vital Tests

One more thing you should consider before starting an excavation project is the number of elements that are present on site. The amount of hazardous gas, oxygen, vapours, and dust that are present on site must be tested and verified to make sure that your excavation process can be conducted without any problems. Tests should be conducted before entering the site. They can also be done during the excavation project to check if there are crucial changes to the elements.

To know more about excavation projects, feel free to reach us at Melbourne Mini Diggers.