Safe Excavation of Utility Apparatus Training | Avoiding Buried Services & Safe Digging
Duration: 1 Day
Locations: Portadown, Northern Ireland
Price: £120 (ex VAT)
The Safe Excavation of Utility Apparatus course provides essential training for anyone involved in groundwork, civils, utilities, or telecoms excavation. This highly practical programme teaches delegates how to safely locate, identify, and excavate around underground pipes, cables, and services using best practice and industry-recognised safety procedures.
Delegates learn to use common service location equipment, interpret utility drawings, and apply correct digging methods to avoid costly and dangerous service strikes. Practical sessions include working with an excavator and banksman to simulate real-world excavation conditions.
Training is delivered exclusively at the ITS Training Centre, equipped with specialised facilities designed to replicate live working environments.
Who Should Attend?
This course is ideal for anyone involved in excavation or groundwork, including:
- Utility operatives
- Civils and groundworkers
- Telecoms installation teams
- Construction and infrastructure workers
- Supervisors responsible for excavation safety
- Banksmen and machine operators
Delegates must bring appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Prerequisites
All learners must:
- Be 16 years or older
- Be medically fit in accordance with current industry standards
No previous qualifications are required.
Course Aim
The aim of this course is to ensure delegates can carry out excavation work safely by:
- Using common underground service location equipment correctly
- Understanding where buried utilities are likely to be present
- Applying safe digging practices to reduce the risk of injury, damage, and operational disruption
- Protecting both worker safety and service integrity
The programme aligns with industry best practice and supports compliance with regulatory requirements such as HSG47: Avoiding Danger from Underground Services.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:
- Understand relevant regulations and Codes of Practice for excavation safety
- Correctly use common underground service location equipment (e.g., CAT & Genny)
- Recognise and identify samples of common underground utilities
- Understand the purpose and benefits of permit-to-dig systems
- Identify services and hazards using utility drawings and plans
- Apply safe excavation techniques using mechanical excavators and hand tools
- Work safely around live services using correct banksman and machine operator communication
Assessment Method
Assessment includes:
- Classroom-based training with instructor-led presentation
- Practical demonstrations using service location equipment
- Hands-on excavation tasks involving an excavator and banksman to expose live services
- Continuous trainer assessment throughout practical activities
Accreditation
Upon successful completion, delegates will receive an:
ITS Accredited Certificate
Certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed to maintain competency and industry compliance.