Trade RAMS template
RAMS for Groundworks & Excavation (UK): Free Template + Site-Specific Generator
Groundworkers expose buried services, operate heavy plant, and create the foundations every project relies on. A grounded RAMS controls utility strikes, collapse, and plant interfaces while keeping muck-away and temporary works organised.
Core civils/structural
phase1
2025-10-01
What you'll brief on site
Align supervisors, evidence compliance, and pre-fill RAMSGen with the core talking points below.
- ✓Confirm latest utility drawings and survey results are briefed
- ✓Inspect shoring, trench boxes, and ladders before each shift
- ✓Check banksman communications, exclusion zones, and reversing alarms
- ✓Verify pumps, hoses, and discharge points are secure
- ✓Record compaction tests, concrete cubes, or drainage inspections
Key approvals
Permit-to-dig referencing as-built drawings and live service isolations, Temporary works permit for trenches, cofferdams, or sheet piling, Traffic management permit for works affecting public roads, Water discharge consent for dewatering operations
Snapshot hazards
- Striking underground services or unknown obstructions
- Excavation collapse trapping operatives
- Plant and pedestrian interface in congested compounds
- Flooding or ground water ingress
- Noise, vibration, and silica dust from breaking works
Critical controls
- Review utility surveys, PAS128 scans, and trial holes before breaking ground
- Install trench boxes, battered sides, or hydraulic shoring with inspections
- Maintain segregated plant routes with banksman control and exclusion zones
- Provide sump pumps, over-pumping plans, and water quality checks
- Use water suppression, extraction, and HAVS monitoring for breaking tasks
Permits & references
- Permit-to-dig referencing as-built drawings and live service isolations
- Temporary works permit for trenches, cofferdams, or sheet piling
- Traffic management permit for works affecting public roads
- Water discharge consent for dewatering operations
Implementation walkthrough
Toolbox ready- 1
Carry out permit-to-dig briefings, CAT & Genny scans, and mark services
- 2
Set up barriers, signage, and safe plant access with a competent banksman
- 3
Excavate in layers, exposing services by hand within tolerance zones
- 4
Install shoring, edge protection, and spoil segregation
- 5
Construct foundations, drainage, or ducts, then backfill and compact with testing
Template detail
Export ready in RAMSGenWhy Groundworks & Excavation RAMS matter
Groundworkers expose buried services, operate heavy plant, and create the foundations every project relies on. A grounded RAMS controls utility strikes, collapse, and plant interfaces while keeping muck-away and temporary works organised.
Common hazards for Groundworks & Excavation
- Striking underground services or unknown obstructions
- Excavation collapse trapping operatives
- Plant and pedestrian interface in congested compounds
- Flooding or ground water ingress
- Noise, vibration, and silica dust from breaking works
Typical control measures for Groundworks & Excavation
- Review utility surveys, PAS128 scans, and trial holes before breaking ground
- Install trench boxes, battered sides, or hydraulic shoring with inspections
- Maintain segregated plant routes with banksman control and exclusion zones
- Provide sump pumps, over-pumping plans, and water quality checks
- Use water suppression, extraction, and HAVS monitoring for breaking tasks
Method statement outline
- Carry out permit-to-dig briefings, CAT & Genny scans, and mark services
- Set up barriers, signage, and safe plant access with a competent banksman
- Excavate in layers, exposing services by hand within tolerance zones
- Install shoring, edge protection, and spoil segregation
- Construct foundations, drainage, or ducts, then backfill and compact with testing
PPE, training, and permits
PPE essentials
- High-visibility clothing with reflective strips
- Cut-resistant gloves suitable for excavations and rebar
- Hearing protection for breakers and plant noise
- RPE (FFP3) when breaking concrete or dealing with silica dust
Training & competence
- CSCS or CPCS cards relevant to plant and groundworks
- CAT & Genny service avoidance training
- Confined space awareness for manhole entries
- Banksman or plant marshal competency for traffic management
Permits & supporting documents
- Permit-to-dig referencing as-built drawings and live service isolations
- Temporary works permit for trenches, cofferdams, or sheet piling
- Traffic management permit for works affecting public roads
- Water discharge consent for dewatering operations
RAMS checklist for Groundworks & Excavation
- Confirm latest utility drawings and survey results are briefed
- Inspect shoring, trench boxes, and ladders before each shift
- Check banksman communications, exclusion zones, and reversing alarms
- Verify pumps, hoses, and discharge points are secure
- Record compaction tests, concrete cubes, or drainage inspections
FAQs: Groundworks & Excavation RAMS
Do we always need a permit to dig?
Yes. Permit-to-dig systems are standard across UK principal contractors. The RAMS should reference the permit number, authority, and controls for identification of buried services.
When is trench support mandatory?
Any excavation over 1.2 m or where collapse risk exists requires shoring or battering. Document the design, inspections, and trigger levels in the RAMS.
How do we manage plant/people segregation in tight sites?
Use physical barriers, designated walkways, trained banksmen, and timed deliveries. If segregation cannot be maintained, stop plant movements and revise the RAMS before proceeding.
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Related resources
Frequently asked questions
Do we always need a permit to dig?
Yes. Permit-to-dig systems are standard across UK principal contractors. The RAMS should reference the permit number, authority, and controls for identification of buried services.
When is trench support mandatory?
Any excavation over 1.2 m or where collapse risk exists requires shoring or battering. Document the design, inspections, and trigger levels in the RAMS.
Related guidance
Share the following resources alongside your RAMS to reinforce site standards and evidence due diligence.
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