Ground Disturbance and Digging Awareness
Are you a back-hoe operator? Are you a surveyor? Are you building a new deck in your backyard? If you said yes to any of these questions, you may be undertaking a ground disturbance for your work or your DIY project. Undertaking a ground disturbance should not be taken lightly.
Anytime you dig, you run the risk of hitting an underground facility such as an electrical line, a water line, a pipeline or a fiber optic line. The financial repercussions of hitting an underground facility can be tremendous. The cost of repairing the damaged line can be extreme, as well as the costs of repairing any other damages inflicted on the surrounding property. Though the cost-related effects can be extreme, the highest price to pay for hitting an underground facility could be a life. There have been many fatalities associated with ground disturbances. These lives could have been saved if the proper procedures were followed while undertaking the ground disturbance.
How Can I Stay Safe?
Ground Disturbance training educates workers on the dangers associated with undertaking a ground disturbance and the proper procedures for safely completing ground disturbance work. One step beyond basic ground disturbance training is Ground Disturbance Level 2 training. This training is designed for planners, managers, supervisors and any employee that will be required to plan or implement any type of ground disturbance.
Ground Disturbance Level 2 training covers the basics of ground disturbance such as the definition of a ground disturbance and the terms commonly used when discussing or planning a ground disturbance. Workers will also learn about the regulations that apply to ground disturbance, the penalties for non-compliance, and the roles and responsibilities of all those involved in the planning and implementation of a ground disturbance. Ground Disturbance Level 2 training also teaches workers about the necessary approvals, permits and agreements that may be required to perform a ground disturbance.
As Ground Disturbance Level 2 training is for those that will be planning and implementing ground disturbances, students will also learn about how to plan a ground disturbance, the techniques used to locate any existing underground facilities and how to mark and expose these facilities. Students will also learn about underground facility contact, the potential damages and the prevention of contact.
Ground Disturbance Level 2
Students will have their knowledge tested during the course and may be required to take a test at the end of the course. A minimum mark must be obtained in order to successfully pass the course. Upon successful completion of the course students will receive a completion certificate. This certificate is valid for 3 years from the date of completion. This certificate would ensure that the worker meets the requirements for Ground Disturbance safety training. Ground Disturbance Level 2 training may be offered in either an online course or in a traditional classroom course. Either delivery method will provide the same information on ground disturbances and provide the same certification upon successful completion.
Ground disturbance level 2 training covers material beyond what is covered in ground disturbance level 1 training and ensures that the individuals in charge of managing or planning a ground disturbance have the necessary training to do so safely and effectively. If you are required to take part in planning, implementing or managing a ground disturbance you are required to take Ground Disturbance Level 2 training. Many health and safety training organizations offer Ground Disturbance Level 2 training.
Contact SET Safety today to sign up for the course and learn how to ensure the safety of all those involved in a ground disturbance.
