When it comes to underground utility construction, safety isn’t just a regulation, it’s a responsibility. Every successful project starts with a strong safety foundation. Always call 811 before digging, and understand what that service can and can’t provide. Back up those locates with as-built drawings and site documentation, and make sure your crews meet OSHA’s “competent person” requirements under 29 CFR 1926. Finally, review the latest guidance from the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). With these fundamentals in place, contractors can confidently address the top five hazards in underground utility work.
1. Struck-By Incidents
Why it matters: Workers are at high risk of being hit by vehicles, equipment, falling materials, or debris. OSHA categorizes these incidents into three main types, but data from the CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training provides even deeper insights.
Prevention tips:
- Use trained signalers and certified equipment operators.
- Require high-visibility PPE at all times.
- Set up physical barriers, berms, and buffer zones to prevent vehicle intrusion.
- Follow MUTCD guidelines for proper signage and traffic control.
- When buying new machines, choose models with panoramic cameras, object detection, and integrated machine control systems.
2. Trench and Excavation Collapses
Why it matters: Though fatalities have decreased, from 39 in 2022 to 13 in 2024 and 12 through mid-2025, trench collapses remain among the deadliest hazards on any jobsite. These incidents often occur when proper benching, sloping, shoring, or trench boxes aren’t used.
Prevention tips:
- Always use a protective system when required.
- Review OSHA’s Trenching and Excavation Safety Overview for quick reminders.
- For more detail, check OSHA Technical Manual (OTM), Section V, Chapter 2.
3. Striking Existing Underground Utilities
Why it matters: Hitting a buried utility can lead to electrocution, gas fires, explosions, or severe service outages. Even damaging fiber or telecom lines can carry major financial and legal consequences.
Prevention tips:
- Treat locates as a starting point, not a guarantee.
- Use soft-dig methods such as hand digging or vacuum excavation near known utilities.
- Document all marks and maintain tolerance zone accuracy.
- Apply lockout/tagout and verify that lines are de-energized before work starts.
- Train crews on emergency response protocols for utility strikes.
4. Hazardous Atmospheres and Confined Spaces
Why it matters: Underground spaces can hide invisible dangers such as methane, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, or low oxygen levels. These hazards can incapacitate workers within minutes, and unprepared rescues can be deadly.
Prevention tips:
- Identify and treat these as permit-required confined spaces under OSHA 1926.1204.
- Perform atmospheric testing before and during entry.
- Use forced-air ventilation and maintain continuous monitoring.
- Designate trained attendants and ensure proper rescue equipment is ready at all times.
5. Traffic Exposure and Public Interaction
Why it matters: Underground work often happens in busy areas, exposing workers to moving vehicles, distracted drivers, and pedestrians. Without proper traffic control, even routine jobs can turn hazardous.
Prevention tips:
- Develop a traffic control plan following MUTCD standards.
- Use warning signs, barricades, flaggers, and attenuators to control the flow.
- Schedule high-risk work during low-traffic hours and coordinate with local authorities.
- Require certified flagger training and high-visibility apparel at all times.
- Follow OSHA’s requirements for signaling and PPE.
Safety Starts with the Right Tools
Every underground utility jobsite brings a mix of visible and hidden dangers, but with the right planning, training, and equipment, those risks can be controlled. At Georgia Underground Superstore, we’re proud to support contractors who make safety a daily priority. From high-visibility apparel to trench shoring systems, confined-space monitors, and traffic control gear, our products help keep your crews protected and compliant on every job.
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