HG47 | Avoiding Danger from Underground Services

When underground cables are damaged, the consequences can be severe, leading to electric shock, explosions, and flames, resulting in serious burns, even if protective gear is worn. Damage often occurs when cables are cut by sharp objects or crushed by heavy machinery. Additionally, previously damaged but unreported cables can pose risks.

The HSE booklet “Avoiding Danger from Underground Services” offers valuable guidance on managing the risks associated with digging near underground cables. The Electricity Networks Association (ENA) has created a ‘Think Before You Dig! Campaign Toolkit’ – a range of information and resources. Download both, below:

https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg47.htm

https://www.energynetworks.org/campaigns/thinkbeforeyoudig

Here’s what you need to do:

Exercise caution when digging or disturbing the earth to prevent damage to underground services. Underground electrical cables can be especially hazardous as they may resemble pipes, making it impossible to determine if they are live by visual inspection alone. Damaging underground electrical cables can result in fatal or severe injuries, and it is a legal requirement to take precautions to prevent such dangers.

To manage risks effectively, excavation work should be properly planned, incorporating measures such as:

• Thorough planning of the work
• Use of cable plans
• Deployment of cable locating devices
• Adherence to safe digging practices

Before commencing work, obtain plans or relevant information about all buried services in the area. If plans are unavailable in emergency situations, assume live buried services are present and proceed accordingly.

Ensure underground cables are located, identified, and clearly marked before work begins, using suitable locating devices and following manufacturer instructions meticulously. Training in device usage is essential, and devices should be regularly checked and maintained.

When excavating, follow recognised safe digging practices, excavating alongside rather than directly above the service, and use insulated tools when hand digging near electric cables.

Read more about Safe Digging practices on the HSE website: https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/information/excavations.htm