Introduction

Trenches and excavation sites must have ground retention support systems in place to protect workers from side or ground collapse and cave-in. Available in a choice of materials and support options, including steel, timber and mechanical, typical examples include:

• Hydraulic Frames
• Sliding Panels
• Shores
• Boxes
• Shields

Proprietary Support Systems are a quicker and simpler retention option to put in place while operators make plans and decisions as to which style of support system to use for the duration of the project.

The Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR) is the online register of training and skills for the energy and utility sector. In partnership with CSCS, the EUSR sets out to nurture and maintain a skilled and sustainable workforce in our industry.

This EUSR Steel and Proprietary Support Systems Categories 4 & 5 combined certification delivers the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to identify excavation hazards, work with various ground retention systems, and safely use, install, and remove them. It is specifically aimed at Managers, Supervisors, operators and safety advisors working in and overseeing excavations.

Course Outline

Through a mix of practical and theory-based exercises and tutorials, delegates will cover manufacturer and general knowledge and awareness of ground retention and steel and proprietary support systems. In addition, they’ll participate in practical activities to learn best practices and operating methods to install a system in a live dig environment with a specific temporary works design.

The course reflects national standards and industry best practices and is fully accredited in line with regulations.

Our occupationally and technically-experienced trainers coach delegates on this course, with ongoing tutor observation and assessment throughout the course and a short written test at the end of day two.

They must pass the assessment to qualify for the EUSR accredited certificate and ID card, valid for three years.

Course Programme

This training is essential for workers to learn how to install, inspect and remove proprietary and steel support systems safely and correctly. Delegates will review legal requirements, ensure safety compliance, and understand procedures, appropriate documentation and classifications.

The course content includes:

• Understanding various health and safety legislation, guides and procedures
• Identifying the dangers associated with working in excavations
• Identifying soil conditions and ground types
• How to use locating equipment and all PPE required for the works
• Interpreting and writing design briefs and temporary work designs
• Risk assessments to understand the suitability of the support system, stability of the excavation and ground conditions and structures
• Recommendations for procedures and equipment following the risk assessment
• Installing, inspecting and removing the steel and proprietary shoring system following the support system design and sequence

On Completion

At the end of the training, successful delegates will confidently:

• Comply with company procedures, health and safety regulations and environmental practices
• Interpret utility drawings and line search documents
• Install, inspect and remove steel and proprietary support systems
• Identify the dangers and hazards associated with excavations

On successfully completing the course, delegates receive their EUSR accredited certificate and ID card, valid for three years.

Who Should Attend?

This EUSR Steel and Proprietory Support Systems Categories 4 & 5 combined certification is for Managers, Supervisors, safety professionals and Operatives overseeing and working in and around excavations. Essential to protect workers and those around them when installing or removing steel and proprietary shoring systems. 

Course Duration

This comprehensive course trains delegates over two days to safely and responsibly work with Steel and Proprietary Support Systems. 

Group sessions or one-to-one training options are available. Find out more here. 

Why Citrus?

We dedicate our efforts to unrivalled quality and the customer experience at Citrus Training, working tirelessly to provide exemplary service to our clients and produce excellent results from our delegates. As a result, we are the leading UK-based provider of health, safety, and technical training and assessment services to the Built Environment and Utility sectors. 

Things You Need to Know

Delegates must complete the Appreciation of Excavation Safety before taking this course.

This EUSR Certified course has practical elements, so delegates must inform their trainer if they have any serious health issues, physical problems, special considerations or are taking any medication, which may create difficulties in participating. 

For training held at your location, please ensure that the classroom you make available has a power supply and is a suitable size for the number of delegates attending. In addition, please ensure that the practical area has been risk-assessed, is free from harm, and is ideal for training.