July 2026 Vol. 81 No. 7
Features
Safe digging tips to prevent utility strikes during summer projects
Summer is a critical time for those in construction and utility work. This busy season depends on crews' productivity as they work around storms and high temperatures. But the season's unpredictable weather isn't the only thing impacting safety and productivity. The possibility of striking a buried utility means potentially hurting crew members, delaying the project, damaging critical infrastructure and cutting off critical access to that utility as it undergoes repairs.
That's why the Gas Technology Institute (GTI) identified vacuum excavation as a best practice for safe digging. Here are a few more safe-digging tips for summer construction and utility work, along with tips from GTI:
Make a plan
To ensure safe digging practices, plan for differing hypothetical situations, including water content and debris. Being prepared to adapt to various ground conditions not only keeps utility work and digging safe, but it shortens the amount of time needed to pivot.
Call 811
Safety is important, and by calling 811, you can understand the location of underground utilities, reduce the risk of dangerous situations and prevent costly repairs and fines. Calling 811 (or submitting a request online) is completely free, and utility companies will arrive to mark the location of underground lines.
Follow safety protocols
With there being less need for manual labor, worker safety is promoted. However, making sure operators utilize proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is still necessary, regardless of site conditions and temperature. All utility work and digging should follow proper safety protocols to help keep crews safe.
Conduct proper maintenance
Over time and through the seasons, debris accumulates on hydrovac tanks and is hard to remove, with dry, sandy soil creating the most buildup. To prevent excessive buildup during the summer months, store vehicles in dry environments and prioritize routine vehicle maintenance.
Use the right equipment
DigRight is a patented technology from TRUVAC that increases safety, helps adhere to industry-recognized best practices and allows crews to focus on the job at the push of a button. This technology, coupled with multi-flow water pump features, allows operators to select a maximum water pressure limit to prevent pressure from exceeding site or industry requirements. DigRight helps decrease wear and tear on check, unloader and relief valves by avoiding bypassing water, while also saving fuel and reducing operating costs by eliminating wasted energy.
Beware of pressure and temperature
GTI noted in the Vacuum Excavation Best Practice & Guideline that if heated water is used during excavation, the temperature and pressure of the water should not exceed 115 degrees F and 2,500 psi, respectively. Additionally, pressurized air or water wands should never remain motionless during excavation. Aiming directly at underground facilities should be avoided at all times.
Keep the right distance
GTI also recommends keeping a distance of at least 8 inches between the end of the nozzle and the underground facility or subsoil. The nozzle should never be inserted into the subsoil while excavating within the tolerance zone.
As summer digging projects increase, calling 811 and prioritizing safe excavation practices can help protect crews, underground infrastructure and project schedules.
For more information
GTI Energy
gti.energy
TRUVAC
truvac.com/digright
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