Excavation & Trench Inspection

Keep excavations safe with our Excavation & Trench Inspection. Designed for site supervisors, engineers, and HSE officers, this template provides a structured way to check planning, services, stability, and edge protection.

Unsupported sides, unmarked services, and missing edge protection are high-consequence risks. This checklist is built for daily or shift inspections of open excavations.

What is included

Planning & Services:

• Permit / method statement in place
• Services located and marked
• Access and spoil placement

Stability & Protection:

• Shoring, battering, or trench box as specified
• Edge protection and barriers
• Water, weather, and surcharge checks

Decision:

• Safe to work / stop work
• Defects and inspector sign-off

Using this template allows you to:

• Standardise excavation inspections before each shift
• Confirm support and services before people enter
• Record stop-work decisions clearly

Disclaimer: This template is provided as a guidance tool only. All inspections and follow-up actions must be carried out in line with your organisation’s procedures and local health and safety regulations. We do not accept responsibility for how this checklist is used.

Download the Excavation & Trench Inspection today to inspect trenches consistently before work continues.