Excavation is the process of removing material to clear a space or create a hole in the ground. If you are working on a project that will require excavating, chances are you’ll have some questions about the process. See a few of the most frequent questions people ask their excavation contractor below.

Excavating FAQ

What Should be Done Before Starting?

There is a lot of preparation required before you even begin digging. Research any local regulations on excavation in your area and take steps to prevent issues with underground or overhead utility lines. Determine the soil type in the area you’ll be digging – there will be multiple types in your work site based on the area and depth – and look for potential hazards that would compromise the soil’s stability. Obtain any work permits if they are necessary.

What Are the Potential Hazards in Excavation?

Your team will need to take preventive measures to avoid the common hazards associated with digging. They will need to stabilize the soil to prevent cave-ins that could bury workers, and create a perimeter to prevent people or vehicles falling in. Flooding, hazardous materials such as underground vapors, and contact with electrical lines or underground materials are all common hazards.

How Do I Prevent People or Machines Falling In?

People falling in or driving machines into the work site is a major concern for both workers and anyone onsite. If you’re excavating on your own property, for example, you may be concerned about your family. Set up a temporary fence around the work site to keep people out. In public areas, backfilling the excavation when it’s unattended is a common practice.

How Do I Avoid Utility Lines?

Call your local utility hotline before doing any digging. You will need to know the location of underground services such as electrical, sewer, and gas lines and have them de-energized if necessary. The ground should be marked to show where they are. Overhead hazards such as telephone lines will also need to be avoided.

Musson Brothers makes your excavation project easy and stress-free, using their industry experience and range of state-of-the-art machinery. They have served the Rhinelander, WI, area for more than 70 years with excavating, asphalt paving, and lot clearing services. Contact them online or at (715) 365-8700 to discuss your project.