There are some tips and tricks that can be used to ensure safety when using hydro excavators for underground utility detection.

Hydro excavation is safer than traditional excavation. However, there are still things you need to be aware of. Remember that we are in safety business if we operate a hydro excavator. This is why these trucks exist and it is what we have to demonstrate in our work.

Safety starts before you even step foot in a truck. Make sure you have completed all inspections of your equipment and chassis. To climb in and out of a truck, face forward with three points. It is important to be aware of your bridge heights, and other non-truck routes once you are on the road.

Once you arrive on the jobsite to begin your excavation, make sure you check the soil conditions. You should not park your truck too close to the excavation site if the soil is hard. The closer you park the truck to the hole, the harder it will be to park. The truck must be parked so that it can be removed from all debris. You may not be able drive the truck empty but it does not mean that you can’t get out with enough. Before you get out of the truck, make sure to put on your personal protective equipment.

Be aware of what is happening around you. You must be aware of your surroundings, not only when you drive the truck but also when operating the machine. Overhead power lines are one of the most dangerous features of hydro excavators. These lines are dangerous and you must be alert to them. These are not only important when moving your boom but also when you’re dumping. When moving your boom, avoid people and cars. You might find clues underground about what you are looking for — electric meters or gas meters on buildings.

Hydro excavators use very powerful vacuums and powerful water pumps to accomplish excavation in Los Angeles. These vacuums are powerful, but it is important to not take them for granted. Never put your arm up to a vacuum tube. Make sure your remote is securely wrapped around your arm, neck and neck. Keep your clothes from getting caught in the vacuum tube. These trucks can take up material as far as several hundred feet away.

Working with water pressure can be dangerous. To ensure safety for both the operator and the lines being located, the industry standard for water pressure has been established. Hydro excavators running at too high a pressure will cause damage to the line and cut off operator’s feet. A higher GPM tip is better than a lower pressure setting to get more out of your digging wand.

This should be noted: Hydraulic leaks are not something you can look at with your hand when the machine is in use. Hydraulic pressures exceeding 3,000 psi can inject oil directly into your body. Water pressure can still be dangerous at levels as high as 2,500 psi. Don’t leave your digging tool unattended with the valve turned on. You can inadvertently turn on the water pump and cause injury or property damage. Also, the spray can travel across the ground and strike someone.

Always be careful not to damage telephone poles or power lines when digging. You should not be sucking up drilling fluid while another person is digging underground. You don’t want to electrocute them if they touch a line. Use your remote to control the boom.

Secure the hole that you are digging. Use sloping, shoring, or a trench box if you are going to be digging in the area. Do not stand too close to a soft bank as it could collapse underneath you.
Once you’ve filled your truck, head to the dump. You must ensure that you dump on solid, level ground. When dumping, be aware of any overhead obstructions. Before you lift your debris tank, make sure to open the debris door. Do not stand under a debris tank or door to a debris tank. After you have cleaned out your debris tank, make sure to close the door. You should make sure that your debris tank is fully empty and that the rear door is locked. Before you drive away, make sure the boom is properly stored.