Introduction to this document

Safety briefing - underground services

There are many hazards to be considered when excavating, including striking underground utilities. Incidents damaging gas or electric lines can pose a serious danger to individuals in proximity and be costly. This safety briefing addresses the risks to your staff and what they need to do to stay safe when digging.

 

Hazards and risks

The briefing identifies the hazards and risks of associated with the works including striking gas pipes which could lead to an explosion or the risk of causing a flood if a water main is struck, along with the more obvious electric shock to the worker if a cable is struck.

Control measures

The briefing then addresses the systems that you have in place for completing the works efficiently and explains to staff the key role that they have in undertaking the task safely.