It can happen in an instant: A metal drill bit taps an electric utility line and deadly current arcs through the equipment, spelling catastrophe for the unlucky operator.
Electrical strikes are not the most common of excavation dangers, but are one of few that can produce immediate fatalities. Fortunately, there are steps operators can take — some basic, some more advanced — to protect against electrical strikes.
EASY AS 8-1-1
This danger is real whenever a contractor works in the ground, but some services are more at risk than others. Topping that list is directional drilling.
“The primary safety issue you run into with
