This involves the removal of the layer of soil directly beneath the topsoil. The removed material (referred to as ‘spoil’) is often stockpiled and used to construct embankments and foundations.

Excavation is the process of moving earth, rock or other materials with tools, equipment or explosives. It includes earthwork, trenching, wall shafts, tunneling and underground. Excavation has a number of important applications including exploration, environmental restoration, mining and construction. Among these, construction is one of the most common applications for excavation. Excavation is used in construction to create building foundations, reservoirs and roads.