Swedish Work Environment Authority launches nationwide excavation inspections

The Swedish Work Environment Authority has launched a nationwide inspection initiative focusing on safety during excavation work. The initiative began during summer 2026 and will continue through September 2027. The inspections follow concerns over the serious risks associated with working in and around excavations. Collapsing excavation walls are among the most severe hazards, while accidents can also occur when workers are struck by machinery, heavy equipment or material falling into an excavation. Geotechnical analysis and planning in focus According to the authority, several recurring factors contribute to excavation accidents. These include insufficient assessment of ground stability, excessively steep slopes, missing support structures and machinery or excavated material being positioned too close to the edge. Heavy rain, drought, frost and vibrations caused by machinery or nearby traffic can also affect ground stability. The authority therefore highlights the importance of carrying out appropriate geotechnical analysis and specifying measures to prevent collapses in the work environment plan before excavation begins. Inspections cover several areas of safety The inspections will primarily examine how organisations prevent excavation collapses. They will also cover traffic and electrical safety, measures addressing serious risks in work environment plans, inspection and control of excavators, and preparedness for first aid and crisis support. Companies and other organisations carrying out excavation work or operating in and around excavations may be inspected. Clients and construction work environment coordinators are also included in the initiative. Affected sectors include ground and foundation work, utility construction for heating, water and wastewater, road and motorway construction and public-sector activities involving roads, water and wastewater. The aim of the nationwide initiative is to improve understanding of responsibilities and safety requirements among those involved in construction and civil engineering projects and thereby reduce the risk of serious workplace accidents.