Safety checklist — Drainage / Sewers
Installation of drains, pipes and manholes. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
12 items- ✓
PPE worn: hard hat, waterproof steel-toed boots, gloves, hi-vis vest
- ✓
Info-Excavation contacted — underground services location confirmedCritical
ℹ️ Mandatory before any excavation — 1-800-663-9228
- ✓
Trench plan reviewed — depth, slope and shoring defined
- ✓
Shoring or sloping planned if trench > 1.2 m deepCritical
ℹ️ CSTC art. 3.15.3 — shoring mandatory > 1.2 m
- ✓
Dewatering pump available if high water table
- ✓
Backfill materials (crushed stone, geotextile) available on site
- ✓
No worker in trench without cave-in protection
- ✓
Access ladder within 8 m in the trench
- ✓
Pipe slopes and grades checked regularly
- ✓
Joints tested watertight before backfilling
- ✓
Materials stored min. 1.2 m from trench edge
ℹ️ Surcharge at edge = risk of wall collapse
- ✓
Equipment traffic prohibited near trench edge
After work
4 items- ✓
Pipes tested (pressure or video) before closing trench
- ✓
Backfill compacted in lifts per specifications
- ✓
Surface leveled — temporary signage if unpaved
- ✓
As-built plan updated with actual alignment
More checklists — Heavy Work
More safety checklists
Risks and prevention — Drainage and sewers
Drain and sewer installation involves deep trench work, exposing workers to cave-in risks, gas accumulation (methane, H₂S), and drowning from rapid water infiltration. The CSTC requires shoring or bracing for trenches deeper than 1.2 metres.
Manholes and underground connections may qualify as confined spaces under RSST. Gas detection must occur before entry and continue throughout work. Rescue procedures must be planned and equipment available on site.
Handling heavy pipes (concrete, cast iron) requires safe lifting techniques and proper equipment. Workers must be trained on biological hazards from contact with wastewater.
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