When digging around marked utility lines — also known as potholing — during urban projects, excavators have to be extremely careful to avoid damaging underground utilities. This is because even slight damage to any line may lead to disastrous consequences. Also, the congested underground utility network leaves little to no room for error, and the regulations for excavation projects in urban areas are tight. But you can easily avoid underground utility damage if you follow the best practices and keep in mind a few experts’ tips.

Here are a few practices and tips by drilling and boring contractors for a smooth and safe potholing project:

• If you damage a utility line or find one in a failing condition, stop the excavation process immediately and notify the utility owner about the damage as soon as possible. Wait until the underground directional boring contractor advises you to proceed.
• If you come across a damaged line or mistakenly wrecked it, do not ignore the damage or attempt to repair it. Also, do not try to bury or hide the damaged line at any cost.
• If the damaged utility poses any threat to life, health, and property, being a responsible drilling and boring contractor, evacuate everyone from the location to the best of your ability and call 911 for help.
• Avoid using mechanized equipment in the proximity of all exposed underground utility lines.
• Relocate utility lines only if authorized and suggested by the utility line owner.
• If hand digging around marked utility lines, use only rounded/blunt edges tools. Avoid using axes, pothole diggers, mattocks, and pry bars.
• Pay attention to the softening of the soil you are working on. This is often an indication of a ditch line.
• Do not leave utility lines exposed when unattended.

Final Note
Exposing utilities on congested, urban projects doesn’t have to be challenging, provided you know the best practice and follow expert tips during excavation.

If you are looking for underground directional boring contractors for your next underground construction project, get in touch with us, and discuss your requirements.