Crossing Utilities: Remove, Support or Redesign

When faced with the challenge of either crossing utilities, or digging parallel to utilities in an open excavation, extra caution must be taken. According to OSHA, there are three possible options for dealing with the interferring utility line: Remove it, support it, or redesign it.

The Construction Standard for Excavations Subpart P, section 1926.651 General Requirements #4 specifically states; "While the excavation is open, underground installations shall be protected, supported or removed as necessary to safeguard employees".

Joe Castello of Ranch Equipment was building a project for Staples Office Supplies that involved tapping into a 12' deep manhole. The tap occurred below the elevation of an existing 30" RCP storm sewer pipe that crossed throught the 16' excavation.

 
Above: A 25' long H-Beam rented from Trench Shoring Services in Orlando was used along with straps and chains to support the 30" RCP storm sewer pipeline.
 
Following OSHA's standard, the contractor decided to support the pipe in the open excavation. He used a 25' long H-beam, rated to take the load. Castello's crew picked up the H-Beam with thier Komatsu 200 and laid it down so it straddled the trench. The pipe was then supported with chains and straps, allowing for successful completion of the tap.