2024-07-22 TBT Ground Conditions

Ground conditions can alter within a short distance, they can also alter throughout the course of the work due to the amount of use. You must assess the risk and consider the appropriate control methods in place taking into account that the area is likely to alter, especially if you are moving equipment or materials across the worksite.

Types of conditions:

Holes: These can create trip hazards. Holes should be identified at the beginning of the working day, people should be warned about them and the should be filled in as soon as possible.

 Slopes: Steps need to be cut into slopes in order to make them manageable. Check the condition of the steps as they will deteriorate with use.

Long Grass: A brush cutter or weed whacker needs to be used in order to clear the area and reveal any potential hazards. There may be hidden ruts, ground bees, or other wildlife in the long grass and brush.

Stones: These create uneven ground conditions and hidden trip hazards. Care should be taken to clear the stones, or an alternative route should be found.

Mud: This can create a slippery and uneven surface. Care needs to be taken. If the site becomes too slippery or uneven, an alternative route should be found.

Flooded areas: Stay away from these areas as it is difficult to know what is beneath the water. If possible, pump out the water. Many of our sites have water ponding during various stages of the projects.

Weather conditions: Weather can affect the ground conditions making the surface uneven, slippery, wet and hidden.

Key Points: You must always try to avoid working on difficult ground conditions. Don’t ever take any unnecessary risks if you are unhappy with the conditions. Remember to discuss how ground conditions can be improved and act on this. Vehicles can easily get stuck in poor ground conditions. Always make sure when visiting your site that there are suitable working areas for staging if you need it.

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