Excavation safety should always be top of mind on the job site, but with April being National Safe Digging Month, now is a time to emphasize it in particular.
Here’s a compilation of previously published Dig Different stories that provide important information about excavation safety:
- On the forefront of a safe excavation project is knowing the location of underground utilities before you even begin digging. Using one-call services like 811 is key, as is verifying such information with further utility locating efforts. Of course that’s only effective at avoiding a line strike if you’re doing it properly. This article provides some tips on how to properly use a top locating tool — an electromagnetic locator.
- Once you actually begin digging, it’s crucial to follow the proper protocols for working in and around trenches. This article provides an overview of the basics to keep in mind, per OSHA requirements.
- The goal of trench safety standards is to completely avoid trench collapses in the first place. But should it happen, how should you respond? This article provides a checklist.
- This article provides an important message — that as many advancements as there have been in the industry to help with safety, i.e. equipment technology, good safety practices ultimately are on individual crew members. Be sure to ingrain that attitude into your team.
