HSG47 is guidance provided by the HSE for those undertaking any form of excavation work and is aimed at all of those involved in commissioning, planning, managing, and carrying out work on or near underground services, as well as the owners and operators of such services. The guidance applies to all situations where underground services may be disturbed and includes street works; road works; excavation, drilling and piling; demolition and site remediation; site investigation surveys; and any other work that involves penetrating the ground at or below surface level.
The guidance is in four chapters as follows: Identifying and managing the dangers; Planning the work; Detecting, identifying and marking underground services; Safe excavation.
The HSE notes that electricity cables are one of the most dangerous utilities when struck. Injuries are usually caused by arcing current and any associated flames or fire that may occur and are usually severe causing burns to the hands, face and body. Electric shock is also possible, but less likely. Damage can be worse if other utilities are nearby, such as gas pipes which can explode as a result of the electricity strike. Gas explosions can cause a huge amount of damage.
Damage to mains water pipes can cause flooding which may produce a risk of drowning, especially as the sides of an excavation may collapse upon workers. Flammable and toxic gases can enter cable-carrying ducts, particularly if the duct has been damaged. Such gases can accumulate in chambers, manholes, etc., and pose a risk to operatives who may need to work there.
There are companies that provide an HSG47 training course in order to make operatives not only aware of the dangers but give them the skills needed to locate underground services using the CAT and Genny. All operatives who are to work on excavations should undertake an HSG47 course.
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