In March, a company reported a serious incident in which an excavator hit an underground electrical line while in operation.
While no one was injured, this type of incident has the potential for severe, or even fatal, injury.
CSAM reminds you to always check ground conditions before starting an excavation:
- Always check before you dig.
Visit ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com to submit a locate request a minimum of three working days before excavating.
- Complete your permit.
Obtain your registration number, complete your excavation permit, and contact Workplace Safety and Health prior to beginning excavation work. Permits and utility clearance documents must be available on site while excavation work is being performed.
- Ensure all hazards are identified.
Notify owners of underground facilities prior to starting excavation work. They must issue clearances or specific instructions to the contractor. These clearances and instructions must be available on site for further reference.
- Prepare an emergency evacuation plan for flooding.
An excavation may flood if the work is below the water table, near a watercourse bank, or exposed to adverse conditions.
For detailed information on the hazards associated with excavations, watch our virtual toolbox talk.
If you have any questions or would like any additional resources or consultation for the hazards on YOUR jobsite, speak to a CSAM safety advisor. Call 204-775-3171 in Winnipeg or 204-728-3456 in Brandon.
