What should occur before the start date of an excavation in high priority subsurface installations?

Before commencing excavation work in areas with high-priority subsurface installations, an agreed-upon site visit is essential to ensure that all involved parties understand the location of the installations and any potential hazards. This visit allows workers, contractors, and other stakeholders to review the site together, discuss specific concerns, and clarify responsibilities.

The site visit is crucial for identifying and confirming the exact locations of subsurface utilities, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidental damage during excavation. Additionally, it promotes communication and coordination among those involved, ensuring that safety measures and operational protocols are clearly outlined and understood prior to any digging activities. This proactive approach increases overall safety and efficiency during the excavation process.

While site hazard assessments, public notifications, and safety briefings are important in their own contexts, they do not replace the need for direct, on-site communication and agreement regarding the excavation plan.