When it comes to excavating, there are already guidelines for electrical safety for a range of industries and technical competencies. Prior to any excavating work of trenching, there should be proper location of various underground utility services and this includes underground cables.
When damaged, people can get injured by electric arcs that can even cause explosion, electric shock, flames, and even death. Damage is caused when a cable is crushed by a powerful machine, a heavy object, or cut through by a sharp object such as the point of a tool. If cables are damaged, it should be reported or repaired right away. If the issues are not addressed, serious problems can come up.
Whenever you are digging or disturbing the earth, caution should be taken as not to damage any underground services. Electrical cables may appear like pipes, which can be hazardous because it is nearly impossible to tell if they are live.
To avoid accidents, there should be thorough planning to properly manage and control risks, including coordinating with other departments. the Majority of cables belong to a DNO or otherwise known as Distribution Network Operator. However, in some instances, it might belong to an authority like the Ministry of Defense or Network Rail. If you are planning to do excavation or trenching, it is best to check for any equipment possessed by any of those establishments. If you have suspicions that underground cables may be evident within the area, confirm their location or ask a representative from that department and accurately locate them.
In the event of excavating within your own territory, involving your own cables, seek assistance from someone who is an expert in cable detection. They will have the essential tools needed i
If you get you lines disconnected to ensure safety during work, electric companies should give at least five days’ notice to customers whose supply is going to be disconnected.
Through careful planning and risk assessment, the fundamentals are given due attention before actual work starts and possible circumstances that might occur are already taken into account.