HSG47 Avoiding Danger From Underground Services

The HSG47-Avoiding Danger From Underground Services course is a training programme that outlines the potential dangers of working near underground services.

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Duration

1 day

From

£30.00 Incl. VAT

Fast: Same-day results

Clear: Step-by-step support

Trusted: 450,000+ trained

Proven: 95% pass rate

Course Overview

What is Avoiding Danger From Underground Services Course?

The HSG47-Avoiding Danger From Underground Services course is a training programme that outlines the potential dangers of working near underground services. It also advises workers on reducing any immediate risks to people’s health and safety and the indirect risks arising from damage to services.

Who is the course for?

This programme is aimed at personnel who are required to supervise or carry out excavation work on a National Grid site.

How long is the course?

This is a 1-day course which lasts for 7.5 hours.

What will I learn?

This course will equip course attendees with the necessary knowledge of the requirements of HSG47. Additionally, learners will learn to avoid danger from underground services in a high-voltage substation environment. The course will also help attendees:

Understand the use of the cable avoidance tool and signal generator within this type of environment.
Describe the problems associated with the use of cable avoidance equipment in a construction site
State the requirements of HSG47
Describe the dangers of underground services
Describe the criteria for work planning per HSG47
Explain how plans and utility searches assist in the avoidance of underground services
Describe the process of underground mapping
State the requirements for the safety systems for work in accordance with HSG47
Explain how cable and pipe avoidance is achieved
Describe the practices used to help ensure safe digging
State the requirements for back filling
Describe how alternative digging technologies can be employed
Describe how to deal with “the unknown service.”

Upon completing this course, learners will understand how to use the CAT & Genny correctly. Additionally, learners will comprehend the HSE Guidance HSG47 and how it applies to the work environment.

Course Requirements

Delegates must be over 18 and have a competent level of English to understand the course. Candidates must also complete a pre-course questionnaire before attending this course.

Assessments and Certification

The course is assessed through practical assessments before and during the course. After completing the Avoiding Danger from Underground Services course, learners are given a cover note to confirm their successful completion of training and assessment as they await their card to be issued by the Energy and Utility Skills (EUSR).

Registration on EUSR is valid for three years from the date of the training.

Retakes

If you fail to pass the first time, learners are allowed one free exam retake.

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"Great trainer, I am doing the door supervision course. Helpful information, good explanations, overall genuinely brilliant! First time doing this course, was anxious however Ben helped breaking the ice immediately by speaking and being open. Thank you."

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I had the opportunity to take the course under

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Not sure where to start?
We'll clear it up!

HSG47 training teaches workers how to avoid dangers from underground services, such as gas, electricity, and water pipes, reducing the risk of accidents and service damage.

Anyone working near underground cables, pipes, or sewers, including construction workers, engineers, and utility workers, should take this course.

The three basic elements of HSG47 (Avoiding Danger from Underground Services) are:

Planning the Work – Identifying underground utilities, conducting risk assessments, and obtaining utility plans before excavation.
Locating and Identifying Services – Using detection tools like CAT and Genny to accurately locate underground cables and pipes.
Safe Excavation Practices – Following safe digging methods to avoid damage, prevent injuries, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

The course is completed in one day and includes practical guidance on safe excavation and service detection.

HSG47 applies to any site where excavation or ground penetration is done, including construction sites, industrial areas, public spaces, and private properties. It’s essential for construction workers, engineers, and utility contractors.

While not legally required, HSG47 is industry best practice, helping businesses meet Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations and avoid legal risks.