What must be done before excavating when existing utilities are present?

Before excavating in the presence of existing utilities, it is crucial to find the approximate locations of those utilities. This step is essential to ensure the safety of workers and to prevent accidental damage to underground infrastructure during excavation. Knowing where utilities such as water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications lines are located helps in planning the excavation work, as it allows for the implementation of appropriate safety measures and avoidance of hazardous situations.

Understanding the layout and presence of utilities ensures that excavation activities can be conducted safely and efficiently, minimizing risks associated with encountering these buried systems unexpectedly. This proactive approach is part of standard safety protocols in excavation work, ensuring compliance with regulations and protection for workers on the site.