Underground utility lines such as gas, electric, water, communication or other high-pressure pipes and lines must be identified before digging. To avoid accidents, buried utility lines must be located before excavation on the property to keep everyone safe on the job site.
According to the ORCGA Dirt Report, 39% of underground utility damages in 2023 were due to locates not requested prior to excavation activity. Requesting locates before any ground disturbances is one of the best defences to reduce the number of underground strikes.
If an excavation site is missing locates or if the locates were inaccurately marked, approach your site supervisor at once. Alternatively, you can contact your steward or union rep if you encounter safety issues on your site.
IUOE Local 793 stands as a dedicated advocate for the protection of all workers involved in building and maintaining Ontario. The importance of this mission cannot be overstated, emphasizing that safety is not a matter of chance – it’s a deliberate choice that each person must make.