The obligation
A competent person must examine site conditions to determine safe slopes and appropriate control measures prior to excavation work.
The ACT Excavation Work Code of Practice requires that a competent person examine site conditions before and during excavation work. Relevant factors include soil type and strength, moisture content, groundwater presence, geological discontinuities, nearby structures and loads, and the potential for vibration from adjacent works. Safe slopes for excavations must be determined based on these assessments. This obligation applies to all PCBUs managing excavation work in the ACT.
- What
- A competent person must examine site conditions to determine safe slopes and appropriate control measures prior to excavation work.
- Source
- legislation.act.gov.au
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site assessment
competent person
excavation
soil
ACT
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Site Condition Assessment Obligation Before Excavation Work is a WHS requirement set out in Excavation Work (ACT). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (ACT). The relevant provision is WHS > Construction > Excavation Work > Risk Assessment.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Site Condition Assessment Obligation Before Excavation Work is a WHS obligation under Excavation Work (ACT). In short, A competent person must examine site conditions to determine safe slopes and appropriate control measures prior to excavation work.
What changed recently?
Site Condition Assessment Obligation Before Excavation Work was last updated on 8 October 2026.
