Many electrical jobs involve trenching. This work is potentially dangerous, but there are things you can do to improve safety. Here are some mistakes to avoid when loading or unloading the trencher:
- Loading or unloading too far from the work zone. You might not be able to park the trailer near enough to the area you’re trenching, except for unloading purposes. In the latter case, get it close enough that you’re not a pack mule for getting that trencher to the work area.
- Not controlling traffic during unloading. Always put up cones and barriers so that text-sending driver doesn’t run you over when you’re unloading the trencher..
- Manhandling a trencher onto or off the trailer. You would typically drive a large trencher on/off the trailer because these are normally self-powered. Manufacturers usually provide dollies or other equipment for rolling small trenchers on/off trailers.
Before you start trenching, ensure your burial route will stay inside the survey area boundaries. If the markings are unclear, contact the utility or surveying company to re-mark the area or explain the existing markings.
