Working Near Underground Services — Toolbox Talk
Free download · A5 landscape (210 × 148mm)
Cable strikes during excavation cause fatalities, extended outages, and massive repair costs. This A5 toolbox talk card provides a structured 5-minute safety briefing on working near underground electrical services. The front covers the steps before any excavation: Dial Before You Dig (1100 in Australia / 811 in US), cable locator use procedures, trial hole requirements, safe dig zone (0.3m from marked service), and what to do immediately if you strike a cable. The reverse provides an attendance record and emergency contact strip with blank fields for site-specific numbers.
What's Included
How to Print
- ●Print double-sided on A5 or half-fold A4
- ●Use cardstock (160–200gsm) for repeated use
- ●Front: present to team. Back: collect signatures
- ●Keep completed cards on file for safety audits
Related Downloads
PTW Talk
Free printable permit to work electrical toolbox talk card. 5-minute safety briefing on PTW stages, LOTO essentials, live work restrictions, competency requirements. With attendance record.
Safe Isolation Talk
Free printable cable identification and safe isolation toolbox talk card. 5-minute briefing on LOTO, proving units, permit to work, and the 7-step safe isolation procedure.
Fatality Stats Talk
Free printable electrical safety statistics toolbox talk card. Annual electrocution fatalities (AU/UK/US), arc flash injuries, most common causes, real-world case studies, near-miss reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paper should I print this on?
Print double-sided on A5 or half-fold A4. Use cardstock (160–200gsm) for repeated use. Laminate the supervisor's copy.
Can I distribute this to my team?
Yes — this is a safety resource. Essential for any team involved in excavation or civil works near electrical infrastructure.
What standard does this reference?
Content aligns with AS 5488 (classification of subsurface utility information), BS PAS 128 (underground utility detection), and ASCE 38-22 (standard guideline for investigating utilities).
How often is this updated?
Updated when underground utility detection standards or safe excavation practices are revised. Content reviewed annually.