The Excavation Competent Person training course provides Canada-compliant safety instruction for individuals responsible for overseeing excavation activities. The program introduces learners to the essential knowledge required to identify hazards, understand soil and equipment behaviour, and ensure safe excavation practices in the field. Built-in quizzes throughout the training reinforce learning and prepare participants for the final written exam.

Upon successful completion, learners can download their test results, certificate, and a practical evaluation checklist. Employers may use this checklist to observe workers in the field and verify their competence in real-world situations, supporting both regulatory compliance and safer work environments.

Excavation work involves significant risks, including ground collapse, equipment instability, and environmental hazards. A competent person must be able to recognize these conditions, evaluate changing site factors, and take corrective action to protect workers. This course provides the foundational understanding needed to assess excavations, operate equipment safely, and apply consistent hazard-control practices.

Anatomy of Excavations

• Understand soil types, trench structures, and equipment interaction
• Learn how excavation design impacts stability and worker safety

Stability Principles

• Review factors that affect ground stability
• Learn how to identify warning signs of shifting soil or trench failure

Safe Operations: Know Yourself

• Understand how physical condition, stress, and decision-making affect safety
• Learn the importance of awareness and operator readiness

Safe Operations: Know Your Machine

• Review equipment capabilities and limitations
• Learn proper inspection and safe operating procedures

Safe Operations: Know Your Worksite

• Assess site hazards, environmental factors, and changing ground conditions
• Understand traffic control, utilities, and protective systems

This online Excavation Competent Person course takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Learners can start, pause, and resume the training at any time.

A minimum score of 80% is required to receive a certificate of completion. Participants may take the course up to two additional times if the passing mark is not achieved.

Upon successful completion, learners can download and print their certificate. All documents are immediately accessible through the training platform.