It is widely estimated that each year 60,000 utility strike takes place in the UK. The accidental striking of buried utility assets like, gas and water pipelines or electric cables results in temporary interruption of services, reputation loss and project delays. It also causes grave injuries to the workers on the site and people around it. It makes for an unsafe working environment. The main reasons for cable strikes are:
- Behavioural issues on the worksite during the excavation work
- Not being aware of the risks in the excavation before commencing work
- Not carrying out a thorough survey of the place and inspection of existing underground utility assets
Fortunately, you can avoid a cable strike. Below given are some of the steps that you take.
- Be better prepared before commencing excavation work by making available accurate plans and finding the locations of the buried utility services
- By carrying out proper surveys of the site area before digging
- Making sure that a comprehensive utility search is in place and the surveyors conducting the inspection is properly trained
- By undertaking cable avoidance training courses that impart skills, knowledge and education on the correct and effective use of cable avoidance tools. Such courses also teach about the limitations of the equipment.
So, you can prevent cable strike from happening if you simply take proper precautions. Ensure that you are working with a trained team equipped to handle such situations. Find a professional training provider in the UK before your project begins.
Sygma Solutions 