3 Common Hazards to Consider during a Horizontal Boring Project

April 8, 2022

When installing cables, conduits, and pipes, contractors nowadays can already maximise horizontal boring. Horizontal boring is a cost-effective process of drilling and excavating underground by using surface-launched tools and machines.

The activities related to horizontal boring projects rely heavily on the diameter of the bore, the length of the installation, and the condition of a worksite. From weather to the physical features of the soil, these things can determine whether the project can be done without expecting any failure. Of course, a horizontal boring project will fail if the contractors do not address onsite hazards early on.

Failure to consider the hazards during a horizontal boring project can lead to injuries, electrocution, fire, and explosion. Here are some hazards that contractors should consider during the said project.

1. Underground Hazards

Since a horizontal boring project is conducted underground, most of the hazards that contractors must consider will come from the said place. 

One underground hazard that must be accounted for properly is the electrical power cables. Once the equipment pieces touch a live electrical power cable, it may cause electrocution or any other serious injuries. Eye damages, alternatively, may be expected if contractors did not consider the fibre optic cables before conducting the horizontal boring process. Another underground hazard that they should consider is fluid and gas pipes. Since they transport toxic and flammable gases or liquids, contractors should handle the pipes with care to avoid fire or explosion. Ultimately, contractors must consider sewage and stormwater lines since damaging them can cause leaks, which may lead to an explosion.

2. Surface Hazards

The surface of the worksite may not be directly dealt with. However, some things found on the surface may still affect the outcome of the project.

One surface hazard that the contractors should consider is the status of manholes. Contractors should inspect the manholes to confirm and verify the type of utility they service. Failure to identify the utilities they service may only lead to drilling issues. Another surface hazard that must be considered is the wirings attached to the poles. Contractors must assume that they are active unless they have been deactivated. They should likewise check if the electrical wires and utility services of outdoor buildings have been marked on their plans or not. Other surface hazards that they should consider fully are ditch line depressions, recently installed or repaired utilities, and private utilities.

3. Overhead Hazards

One more hazard that contractors should consider during a horizontal boring project is the overhead hazard. Even though most horizontal boring works are done underground, some equipment pieces may still affect overhead lines due to human errors and negligence.

Overhead lines should be avoided during mobilisation and demobilisation. The same lines must also be avoided whenever heavy equipment pieces are loaded or unloaded.

If you want your horizontal boring project to be safe and successful, you must contact us at Metro Pits.

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