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Method Statement 3.1 - Safe Working in the Vicinity of Buried Plant

Document Information

Field Value
Document Reference MS 3.1
Issue Number 2
Issue Date 1 June 2026
Next Review 1 June 2027
Prepared By Sean Ashton
Approved By Aaron Mason, Director
Task No Task PPE to be worn Plant required Reference is made to the Team Pack risk assessment
3.1. Safe Working in the Vicinity of Buried Plant As defined by on-site risk assessment. Cable avoidance equipment, works vehicle and hand tools See Risk Assessment RA03 — Underground Services Risk Assessment

Hazards

• Electrified Metallic Services
• Lead Water Services
• Asbestos Pipe Lagging
• Confined Spaces
• Thermal environment
• Co2
• Entry Into Third Party Property
• Solder Fumes
• Services Buried in Plaster

Environmental Impacts

• Carbon Emissions
• Waste

Customer Impacts

• Discoloured Water
• Access
• No Water
• Inconvenience
• Work Activities carried out in house

Training Required

As Per IMR specific contract training matrix

Additional Plant and Equipment

• N/A

Permits Required

As Per IMR specific contract specifications and Client requirements.

COSHH Assessment Required

• Co2
• Chlorus
• Solder
• Flux

Sequence of Operations and Control Methods

Sequence of Operations and Control Methods: (detail proposed / agreed methods, and safe systems of work)

General Principles

• The most effective way to prevent contact with buried services is by careful planning and systematic detection before any excavation work begins.

• All operatives involved in the works shall wear all necessary PPE as required by company policy and procedures and the identified control measures within the risk assessment process.

Pre-Work Procedures

• Upon arrival on site, the team leader shall survey the area to ensure all potential risks have been identified.

• Review all available service drawings and conduct a comprehensive visual review of street/house furniture and road/location area for evidence of service installation.

• Complete the Excavation Dynamic Risk Assessment and the Permit to Dig documentation.

Service Detection

• Using the CAT & Genny locate and mark-up services within the area adjacent to and beyond the intended excavation area.

• Service avoidance training for all personnel must be completed.

• Data logging CAT and Genny provided (calibrated).

• Personnel must be trained and competent.

• Visual inspection for service indicators.

• Services marked beyond excavation footprint.

• Utility scans continue as excavation progresses.

Excavation Near Services

• Hand dig to expose all known services within the intended work area.

• Excavation within 0.5m of services by hand with insulated tools.

• Excavation by hand if service cannot be located.

• Excavate alongside, not on top of services.

• Marker tape as indication only.

• Work ceases if unidentified service located.

• Services in concrete not broken without isolation.

• Contact utility owner if high risk.

• Flame retardant/arc resistant clothing provided.

Working with Exposed Services

• Exposed services are to be supported at a maximum of one support per meter length.

• All exposed services protected from damage and supported where necessary.

• Services considered live unless written confirmation received from service owner.

Emergency Procedures

• If an unidentified service is struck or damaged, work must stop immediately.

• Evacuate the area if necessary.

• Contact the relevant utility company emergency number.

• Follow site-specific emergency procedures.

  • HSG47: Avoiding Danger from Underground Services
  • Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice