Don’t Dig Yourself into a Hole or a Grave

Posted on April 17, 2013

As underground services increase in number, complexity and cost of compensation – it is important to check what’s there before you dig or cut the ground:

• When checking plans, make sure that you look at; water, electricity, sewage, gas, fibre optical cables, oil pipelines, fuel lines and aviation fuel lines;
• Never excavate before using the CAT scanner in the way described above, the service plans may be inaccurate;
• Be aware that some services may use the ducts of other services;
• Be aware that services may have been put in very close to the surface (within the tarmac);
• The CAT scanner should always be used with the CAT generator;
• The ground should be scanned in all modes; regardless of whether you have found the service you are looking for;
• The ground should be scanned with every 200-300mm of excavation;
• Remember that the indication of depth is to the centre of the service, not the top (if you have a 42” pipe the top of the pipe will be 21” higher than the reading);
• Be aware that ALL services can be fatal;
• The CAT scanners used are calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations;
• Only those workers trained and competent in the use of the CAT are to operate the equipment;
• Only CAT equipment that has been calibrated and is in possession of a certificate of conformity is to be used.

In light of the above we have created new method statements and risk assessments for any excavation.  If you are breaking ground and have old risk assessments and method statements please contact us.