Anyone looking to break dirt, whether it be for a sprawling construction project or a new house, should take heed, says Reg Welsh, a safety patrol member with Sask 1st Call.
“Our goal is to communicate the importance of calling Sask 1st Call before any excavation takes place,” said Welsh. “We also discuss safe digging practices to prevent any damage to underground facilities.”
Sask 1st Call’s safety team was in Estevan last week, as part of a tour to ensure that checks are being done on underground infrastructure in the area. The tour was done in conjunction with SaskEnergy, SaskPower, SaskTel and the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance.
The safety team consulted local contractors and rental businesses in meetings to ensure that the safety message is passed on as thoroughly as possible, in Estevan and the surrounding area. This was one of many stops in Saskatchewan the team will make, to spread awareness.
“It’s important to have a safe work site as well as a safe environment for the public,” said Welsh. “That’s done by having the OKs done beforehand to prevent costly repairs, damage to equipment, the surrounding area, and most importantly, injury and loss of life.”
Sask 1st Call specifically helps with the planning of any kind of projects that require digging or excavating. This is done by performing an underground facility screening to make certain that no lines are disrupted or damaged.
For more information on safety protocols relating to underground infrastructure and disrupting the ground, contact Sask 1st Call at 1-866-828-4888 or visit the website www.sask1stcall.com.
