The Dangerous Side of Wet Utility Contractors

Wet utility contractors perform work that relates to the installation or repair of underground pipes and utility systems. Contractors are called in to work on storm water drainage systems, sewer pipes and water mains, along with worksite demolition and land restoration of sites where pipes are installed or removed. Other types of jobs requiring wet utility contractors include installing pre-cast pump houses, steel tanks, and pipes at water treatment plants and upgrading municipal water pipelines. Contractors go through extensive training before they receive their license. In addition to knowing proper installation processes, contractors also need training in construction safety, handling hazardous materials, and OSHA regulations. Wet utility construction demands safety awareness. Contractors are exposed to a variety of hazardous conditions including contact with live utilities and cave-ins around the trenches where pipes are installed or worked on. One of the more effective methods to prevent workplace accidents is to conduct pre-job analysis to determine potential hazards. Identifying problems ahead of time lets contractors train employees and make them aware of dangers presented at the construction site. A technique that has been instrumental in improving safety conditions is subsurface utility engineering. SUE makes use of non-invasive technology that gathers data about what's going on underground. The equipment creates visual aides and 3D maps so contractors can determine locations of existing utility systems and pipes. Prior to the development of subsurface utility engineering contractors didn't have many tools to identify underground activity. Accidents often occurred when crews began digging trenches. Today, that problem can be eliminated by utilizing SUE; making jobsites significantly safer.
WATER * SEWER * FIRE LINE * STORM DRAIN * SUBSURFACE UTILITY ENGINEERING 1639 E. Miraloma Avenue * Placentia, CA 92870 * P (714) 986-1400 * F *714) 986-1416 www.KanaPipeline.com LIC 461487A

The type of equipment needed for wet utility construction also presents workplace hazards. Heavy equipment is used to clear the land, dig trenches, and position pipes. There are risks of being struck by pipes or injured by construction equipment. Excavating construction sites presents many challenges to workers and contractors. To lessen accidents and injuries, project managers need to develop a solid plan and make certain employees are trained adequately. Another challenge of wet utility construction is water. Trenches often have to be dug below the water table which necessitates having to dewater the site. There is a couple of dewatering methods, but the most common are to siphon or pump water from trenches. If there is excessive levels of water, contractors have to install cutoff walls and wellpoints. Wellpoints are attached to pumps that force water into ground. The process is complex and costly, but can dewater a site quickly and prevent project delays. As you can see, wet utility contractors are faced with a high level of danger and technological work. It's vital to work with experienced contractors with an impeccable construction safety record, as well as those that make use of subsurface utility engineering. Doing so can minimize job delays and ensure work is performed in accordance with state and federal regulations.

WATER * SEWER * FIRE LINE * STORM DRAIN * SUBSURFACE UTILITY ENGINEERING 1639 E. Miraloma Avenue * Placentia, CA 92870 * P (714) 986-1400 * F *714) 986-1416 www.KanaPipeline.com LIC 461487A