Buried Utilities - On the Job Tool Box Talks

Download the full article - includes on the job poster.

There are often deadly hazards lurking underground on excavation sites. Let’s discuss how to avoid rupturing or breaking underground utilities such as electrical power cables and pipelines.

Before digging:
• Call electrical, gas and communications utilities at least 24 hours in advance.
• Look for gas lines. They should be marked with yellow paint or flags.
• Review marked out areas. They may not be exact.
• Dig by hand within 2 feet of mark-out.

When digging, look for:
• signs of previous digging
• changes in soil types
• asphalt patches or depressions
• concrete, plastic or gravel

If a line is hit, you must report it! If it’s a gas line, evacuate everyone, secure the area and call the fire department.

Topic provided by:
This information is provided by: The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR)