As a homeowner, you’re probably used to dealing with all sorts of minor repairs and maintenance issues. But there’s one type of repair job that can be especially tricky: fixing a utility hole. If you’re not cautious, you could easily damage your property or even injure yourself while trying to fix a utility hole.
In this blog post, Laurel Asphalt will give you some tips on safely repairing a utility hole. We’ll additionally let you know what to do if you encounter any hazards while working on your property. So read on for basic details you need to know about repairing a utility hole!
It’s a Dangerous Task
Repairing utility holes can be a dangerous task. They are often filled with dirt, rocks, roots, and other hazards, including water leaks, making it hard to assess the situation. You can keep safe while working on these treacherous holes by knowing what to look for.
1. Utility Holes Are Often Filled with Dirt and Rocks
Utility holes are sometimes filled with rocks and dirt that have shifted over time due to erosion or natural processes. While repairing these holes, workers should constantly check around them for shifting rocks or dirt that may indicate more significant problems further down the hole. Even if the rocks don’t shift during repair, they could still pose a threat of rolling off onto workers.
2. Utility Holes Are Usually Deeper Than They Appear
A utility hole may appear only five feet deep but could be six feet or even more deep. This is particularly concerning for workers who must stand at the bottom of the hole while working. Suppose there’s any spillage during the repair. In that case, it doesn’t take much for a worker at this depth to become seriously injured by standing in contaminated water, if not drowning first.
3. Workers Are at Risk of Suffocating During Repairs
Suppose the utility hole area is blocked off or barricaded with no ventilation. Workers inside will have a risk of suffocation due to lack of Oxygen. Any repairs that need to be done within the utility hole have an even higher risk of asphyxiation if proper ventilation is not provided.
4. Workers Risk Falling into the Utility Hole If Not Properly Braced or Secured
Utility holes tend to be deeper than many people realize, so not being properly braced or secured within can mean a fall if someone happens to fall into a deep utility hole. They’re at significant risk of getting injured due to the depth; it takes time for people to wade through water before reaching solid ground fully. Additionally, falling into the utility hole also exposes workers to other dangerous substances that may be present (i.e., oil).
It’s Better to Leave It to the Pros
If you’re ever in the unfortunate situation of dealing with a utility hole, we hope you find this post helpful. We know it’s hard enough to deal with the damage as it is without having to worry about potential safety hazards too. It is always a wise decision to leave it to the pros.
At Laurel Asphalt serving Windber, PA, we offer a wide range of services to meet your needs, from asphalt repairs to full-scale paving projects. Our team is dedicated to providing quality workmanship that will stand the test of time. Get a free estimate.
