WHO NEEDS THIS LETTER?
This letter is required for employees who have been appointed to act as an Excavation Supervisor on the work site. They will be responsible for supervising all excavation operations on the work site.
WHAT IS THIS LETTER FOR?
This letter shows that an Excavation Supervisor has been appointed to supervise all excavation operations on the work site, according to the requirements of the OHS Act. The letter allows these persons to act under the authority of the Principal Contractor or Contractor in order to ensure that all excavation operations are conducted correctly and safely.
WHY IS THIS LETTER IMPORTANT?
This letter shows that a responsible person has been appointed to supervise all excavation operations. This provides evidence to an inspector that a basic structure is in place to ensure that all excavation operations are conducted correctly and safely on the work site. This letter is mandatory under section 13(1)(a) of the Construction Regulations of the OHS Act and its availability shows that the employer is complying with these Regulations in respects of this appointment requirement.
VALIDITY
This letter needs to be signed by the Principal Contractor or Contractor (as the appointer) and by the appointee, dated and kept on record where it can be accessible to an inspector. A time period must be included for the appointment. Each appointee must have the relevant accredited qualification or experience in order to be competent to perform these duties.
HOW DOES THIS WORK AS A CONTROL MEASURE?
In the hierarchy of controls this letter forms part of the administrative control measures which should be in place to ensure that all excavation operations are conducted correctly and in a safe manner. This letter ensures that a responsible person is appointed to supervise all excavation operations on the work site and ensure that these are conducted safely and correctly.
