At Dig Safe SA, safety is at the core of everything we do. With years of experience in hydro excavation, we understand the importance of implementing safety protocols to ensure that each project is completed safely and accurately. As the demand for utility locating continues to rise, it’s essential to follow specific safety practices to protect workers, underground utilities, and surrounding infrastructure.
In this blog, we’ll highlight the top safety practices that every utility locator should follow, ensuring safe excavation with the help of vacuum trucks and industry-leading non-destructive methods.
1. Proper training and certification
The first step in ensuring safety is proper training and certification. For utility locators, this means learning the right techniques, understanding the equipment, and, most importantly, knowing the safety protocols to follow when locating underground utilities. As
hydro excavation relies on high-pressure water systems, it’s crucial that operators are thoroughly trained in handling this equipment to avoid injuries or accidents on the job.
When utility locators are trained and certified, they are equipped with the knowledge to identify potential hazards and handle various excavation scenarios safely, ensuring that the work is performed efficiently and correctly. Certification programs help provide locators with the required skills to identify underground utilities while keeping safety in mind.
2. Conducting a thorough site survey
A comprehensive site survey is one of the most important steps before any excavation begins. Utility locators must first gather accurate utility maps, confirm utility locations with other service providers if necessary, and assess the site conditions. By having a complete understanding of the area, locators can better plan the safest path for excavation and avoid accidents.
Taking the time to conduct a thorough site survey helps locate any buried utilities and reduces the chances of accidentally damaging cables, gas lines, or other infrastructure. This pre-excavation planning also allows locators to understand the overall environment, which is essential when dealing with areas where utilities may be complex or densely packed.
3. Use of proper safety equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, helmets, high-visibility clothing, and steel-toe boots, is essential for utility locators to protect against accidents and injuries. In addition to PPE, using the right tools is crucial for safety.
Vacuum excavation trucks are commonly used to safely expose underground utilities without causing damage. Ensuring all equipment, such as water pressure controls and suction mechanisms, is functioning properly is key when performing hydro excavation for precise and safe results.
4. Follow local safety regulations
Following local safety regulations is essential for utility locating, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Each jurisdiction has specific guidelines for locating methods and excavation safety, from required markers to equipment rules. Adhering to these standards protects workers, prevents damage, and avoids legal issues. Utility locators must stay informed and apply these regulations on every job to prevent delays, fines, or accidents.
Get in touch for expert hydro excavation services in Adelaide
If you need accurate underground utility locating with minimal disruption, Dig Safe SA specialises in hydro excavation to safely expose underground services, including pipes and sewer lines, using non-destructive methods. Our advanced techniques ensure precise utility detection on your construction work sites. Whether you're working on service locating or need to map out underground utilities, our professional team is here to help you get the job done safely and efficiently.
Enquire today to get your project on track with the safest and most efficient excavation methods available. We're here to help!