Even though hydrovac is one of the safest digging technologies, when hydro excavation equipment is used improperly, there’s a higher likelihood of damaging underground utilities. If the water pressure is too high or the nozzle is directed incorrectly, it can effectively cause unintended damage to pipes, cables, or other infrastructure buried beneath the surface. Additionally, inadequate training of personnel operating the equipment can also result in mistakes that lead to utility strikes.

Failing to accurately locate underground utilities before using a hydrovac truck can further increase the risk of damage. Proper planning and utility locating procedures should be followed to identify the precise location of buried infrastructure, ensuring that excavation is conducted safely and without incident.

Of course, damage to underground utilities can have serious consequences, including service disruptions, costly repairs, environmental hazards, and potential safety risks for workers and the surrounding community.

To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial for companies to invest in comprehensive training programs for personnel operating hydro excavation equipment and to implement strict adherence to safety guidelines and protocols. Additionally, utilizing advanced technology such as ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locating devices can enhance the accuracy of utility detection, reducing the likelihood of accidental strikes during excavation activities.

As the need for training can be problematic, and your company might have to hire new employees or allocate time for the training of existing workers in the proper operation of hydrovac trucks, a more practical solution might be to hire a dependable vacuum truck service Florida has to offer. They can handle all the work safely, so you and your team can focus on the more pressing matters of running and expanding your business.