What utilities should be identified before excavation begins?

Identifying underground and overhead utilities before excavation is crucial for safety and compliance with regulations. Both types of utilities can pose significant risks during excavation activities. Underground utilities such as gas, water, sewer, and telecommunications lines can be damaged if disturbed during digging, which can lead to service interruptions, costly repairs, and potentially dangerous situations, including leaks or explosions. Overhead utilities, like power lines, also present hazards; equipment and personnel could come into contact with these lines, resulting in injuries or fatalities.

Proper identification of all utilities ensures that excavation activities can be planned and executed safely. It allows for the development of a safe work plan that incorporates sufficient precautions, such as avoiding digging in marked areas or scheduling work around the utilities. Furthermore, this practice is often a legal requirement, necessitating coordination with utility companies to mark the locations of these lines. Therefore, the comprehensive approach of assessing both underground and overhead utilities before starting excavation aligns with best practices in safety and procedural compliance.