Vacuum excavation is now one of the safest excavation methods. It is highly effective and has the ability to remove a range of materials such as loose soil and granular materials which are then stored in a hopper. Despite this, to successfully implement vacuum excavation as a process, it is important that safety procedures and best practices are followed, but what are they?
Security procedures
Security on site
It is imperative that safety is considered on site to ensure that the process can be carried out effectively. Therefore, it is important to take into account the conditions of the soil and that it can adequately support the loads placed on it. It is also important to consider overhead power lines, as the boom should not be used when they are present. Ensuring the site is suitable and safe is a priority.
It is not just above ground that needs to be considered, as all utilities will need to be located, although it is important that open holes are properly identified with appropriate signage and cones or fences.
Personal protective equipment
It is important that operators wear the correct PPH equipment, although this may vary depending on the system being used. Therefore, they will need to consider their footwear, as working near live power lines will require dielectric boots. Eye protection, gloves and a helmet are also vital, as are hearing protection and reflective clothing.
Keeping a distance
It is crucial to maintain a safe distance during operation and when the tank of the vacuum excavator is open. No one should be close to the machine, while operators should ensure that they are not too close to the open holes as they may fall into them. .
Best Practices
Keep invasiveness to a minimum
Vacuum excavation is based on a relatively simple way of removing soil and other debris from the ground. However, when using machinery, it is important to ensure that the machine does not cause any destruction below ground. It is important that all operators understand the machine and the potential risks of digging, as a lack of knowledge could mean that excessive invasiveness can lead to major problems.
security
Safety has its own meaning when it comes to vacuum excavation, but it is also part of best practice. The correct safety measures must be implemented before vacuum excavation, while it is also imperative to maintain high levels of safety during and after. It’s always worth making sure the area is safe and includes below and above ground, while all procedures should be fully understood by everyone. Along with this, operators must ensure that they wear all the necessary personal protective equipment.
Prepare for emergencies
Although the risk of an emergency is low, it is always possible and preparing for all eventualities is key. Therefore, it is important to have an action plan in case of an emergency. It is essential to have the procedures in writing, so that they can be forwarded. They may never be needed, but they are available and show that you are prepared if something happens in the future. If you operate within a facility, it can also help to inform the site owner of the procedures, as this will ensure that everyone understands what is required or expected in the event of an emergency.
Trained professionals
Vacuum excavation can be extremely dangerous if the process is carried out by people who are not properly trained. If individuals have not been trained and qualified to industry standards, they are at greater risk of causing problems and harm. Staying compliant is key, and failure to comply can result in significant fines. As a result, the entire team must be handled by someone not only qualified, but competent enough to get the job done. This will mean that they will need to consider, among other things, first aid, CPR and electrical awareness when carrying out the job.
Vacuum excavation is an extremely useful method, here are some uses of vacuum excavation, but it must be carried out safely and correctly. This means that all security requirements and best practices must be followed.
