The obligation
Approved NSW COP providing practical guidance on excavation work risks (trenching, tunnelling, underground services) under the WHS Act 2011. From 1 July 2026, compliance with the COP is the minimum standard required of PCBUs under s 26A.
The NSW Code of Practice for Excavation Work was approved under WHS Act 2011 s 274 and commenced 18 July 2014; revised minor wording corrections took effect 31 January 2020. It covers risk management for all excavation work including trenching, shoring, underground essential services, and earthmoving plant.
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- What
- Approved NSW COP providing practical guidance on excavation work risks (trenching, tunnelling, underground services) under the WHS Act 2011. From 1 July 2026, compliance with the COP is the minimum standard required of PCBUs under s 26A.
- Source
- safework.nsw.gov.au
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excavation
trenching
tunnelling
underground services
PCBU
construction
code of practice
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
NSW Code of Practice: Excavation Work — Scope and Legal Status is a WHS requirement set out in Excavation work (NSW). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW). The relevant provision is Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) > Codes of Practice > Excavation Work § s 274; s 26A.
What does this WHS obligation require?
NSW Code of Practice: Excavation Work — Scope and Legal Status is a WHS obligation under Excavation work (NSW). In short, Approved NSW COP providing practical guidance on excavation work risks (trenching, tunnelling, underground services) under the WHS Act 2011. From 1 July 2026, compliance with the COP is the minimum standard required of PCBUs under s 26A.