Fencing contractor warns about the dangers of digging blind
A fencing contractor who struck an underground gas pipeline whilst using a tracked post knocker has shared his experience to raise awareness of the risks associated with digging ‘blind’.
In June 2021 the contractor was installing round wooden posts for a wire fence in an agricultural field when he struck a gas pipeline. The incident was filmed and went viral (see link below for video) due to the ferocity of the explosion.
With the benefit of hindsight, following a safe system of work would have avoided this situation. A safe system in this instance consists of three elements:
- Planning the work
- Detecting, identifying and marking underground services
- Safe excavation/safe digging practices
Each of these steps is critical to ensure the safety of operatives breaking ground in any situation. Association members are reminded of the risk posed by underground assets, and of the importance of considering these before breaking ground - not just in relation to fencing, but also planting - regardless of whether works are undertaken for domestic or commercial clients.
The contractor was fortunate to avoid serious injury and has subsequently teamed up with ‘Line search before U dig’ (LSBUD) to highlight how this accident could have been avoided. LSBUD offer free access to maps which detail the location of all types of utility assets. Association members need to complete a short registration form to gain access to a suite of asset maps. Use the link below to access the maps.
In addition, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has produced a free, detailed guide on how to avoid the dangers associated with breaking ground. See the link below for more information.
Further reading:
Video of fencing contractor striking gas main
LSBUD website
HSE: Avoiding danger from underground services