Method Statement for Foundation — create with RAMSagent
A Site-Specific Safety Plan for foundation work covers excavation, shoring, piling, and base slab. The document describes slope angles, shoring pressure, groundwater management, and heavy lifting — with a special focus on collapse risk and documentation requirements according to Canada Labour Code Part II.
RAMSagent suggests slope angles based on soil type and depth, and integrates shoring pressure into the lifting plan for excavation machinery.
Typical risks for Method Statement — Foundation
| Risk | Description | Legal | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collapse in Excavation | Excavations deeper than 1.25 m require shoring, sloping (at least 1:1 in firm soil, 1:1.5 in looser soil), or another support system. No one may enter an unsecured excavation. | Canada Labour Code Part II | Critical |
| Groundwater and Drowning | Pumped excavation bottoms can refill quickly during rainfall. Work near open water requires a rescue plan and life jackets if there's a drowning risk. | Canada Labour Code Part II | High |
| Collision with Excavation Machinery | Exclusion zones around excavation machinery must be at least 1.5 times the reach. A signal person with a line of sight to the operator is required during reversing and lifting. | Canada Labour Code Part II | High |
| Conduits and Cables | Cable and pipe investigation with a cable locator or project documentation is required before machine-driven work. Hand chipping near unprotected lines. | Canada Labour Code Part II | High |
Applicable Regulations
- Canada Labour Code Part II Construction and Civil Engineering Work
- Chapter 5 regulates excavation, shoring, and piling — requirements for slope angles, support, and rescue plans.
- Canada Labour Code Part II Work at Height
- Applies to work on excavation edges and from pontoons.
- COHSR Use of Lifting Devices
- Requirement for lift plan for sheet piling and heavy pile material.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is sheet piling required?
- For excavations deeper than 1.25 m that cannot be sloped, or where adjacent buildings/roads are affected. RAMSagent flags if sheet piling is needed based on the projected depth.
- What is a rescue plan for excavation?
- It describes how a person can be evacuated in case of collapse, groundwater filling, or unconsciousness. According to the Canada Labour Code Part II, it must be available at the workplace.
Related Guides
Free Word Template: Method Statement
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