Hydro-Excavation is the SAFE uncovery of buried utilities or other underground structures. In order to ensure a safe operation several parts of the operation need to be checked.
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The Truck:
Is the equipment actually a Hydro-Excavator, or is it a vacuum truck trying to do an HX job? While this may work in some applications, be aware of the consequences: If the unit is not solely a Hydro-Excavator, chances are good that other truck has vacuumed sanitary waste, greases, oils, manufacturing by-products or worse, hazardous material. If the excavated material is to be left on site, you may be contaminating your site.
In addition, if the truck does not have a water pump built specifically for Hydro-Excavating, chances are good that the contractor with the other vacuum truck will use too much water. This means more water than debris in the storage tank. More water than debris - more costs dumping. More water - more fill ups at the hydrant. More = wasted time, lack of efficiency, and greater cost to you.
Vacuum Tubes and Water Guns:
To ensure safe uncovery of a utility, a vacuum tube cannot be metal tipped - the metal crown acts like teeth ripping wires, damaging pipe coatings or piercing thru the utility casing causing damage. The preferred safe vacuum tube choice is one that is rubber tipped. In the event that the tube contacts the utility there will not be any damage. The water nozzle should be of non sparking material, plastic encapsulated nozzles are preferred. These tools are an absolute necessity for safe and efficient uncovery.
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Workers:
Is the contractor trained to operate the equipment properly and safely. Are the workers trained to understand the hazards associated with live energy buried in the ground. Do they have the proper safety equipment for the job they are performing. Typically this would be hard hats, safety glasses, safety boots, protective coveralls, various air monitoring equipment and a safety plan.
