Working in the Vicinity of Underground Cables

Working safely around underground lines takes some planning and safe work practices. What do you need to know?

Safe work practices - Understanding a few simple concepts can ensure a safe working environment.
Accidental contact - What to do if you make contact with an underground cable.

Prior to any excavation, ensure utilities in the area have been located. Allow 2 full working days prior to the start of any job.
- Alberta One Call: 1-800-242-3447
- BC One Call: 1-800-474-6886
Arrange to have someone meet the locator at the site to ensure the entire dig site has been marked.
Know and maintain the limits of approach for all utilities.
Hand expose or hydrovac all utilities in the dig site, do not machine dig.
Depths and numbers of cables will vary. Use caution and ensure the hand dig zone is large enough to expose all cables.
If the dig site requires you to expose large sections of cable, notify the local utility. The cable may have to be supported to prevent physical damage.
Be aware that high voltage equipment (such as a transformer or switching cubicle) has a ground grid around it that will not be marked by locators. Maintain a 2-metre safe zone around this equipment.
Contact the local utility regarding proper back filling procedures.
Caution: do not handle or manipulate any underground cable.