What must be identified before starting excavation work?

Prior to initiating excavation work, it is essential to identify all underground facilities, commonly referred to as utilities. This includes any buried power lines, water pipes, gas lines, sewage systems, and telecommunications cabling. Understanding the location and condition of these utilities is critical for safety reasons, as striking an underground facility during excavation can lead to severe accidents, service interruptions, and costly repairs.

Additionally, identifying underground facilities aids in planning the excavation process effectively to avoid potential hazards and damage. Knowledge of underground utilities is mandated by regulations in many jurisdictions, emphasizing the importance of this step prior to beginning any excavation work. Ignoring this crucial aspect could lead not only to safety risks but also legal repercussions and delays in the project timeline.