Ben Collins

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed that upon finding Mr Collins in the trench, those present had no knowledge of how to operate the Suction Excavator in order to release Mr Collins. Digsafe Excavations Ltd provided one person with knowledge of how to operate the excavator with an expectation that a second man would be provided by whosoever contracted with them. That person however would not know how to operate the Suction Excavator in an emergency or be fully trained in its use. Further there is no HSE guidance covering; a) the use of a Suction Excavation machine, b) training for such use, c) the provision of a fully trained second man, d) the regularity of servicing of control panels.

MATTER OF CONCERN: Digsafe Suction Excavation Ltd give consideration to the provision of a second man by them at each excavation who is fully trained in the operation of the Suction Excavator and associated equipment such as an air-lance.

The HSE give consideration to the provisions of guidance regarding training and the use of suction excavation equipment including a recommendation for the provision of a second man fully trained to use the Suction Excavator and associated equipment, regular servicing of remote controllers together with the proper documentation of such.