The following hazards exist in Denver and Colorado Springs when dealing with excavations on roofing or waterproofing projects:
• Cave-ins can be caused by poor design or other hazards, roofers or waterproofers need to be aware of these dangers
• Asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen
• Inhalation of toxic materials
• Fire
• Moving machinery near the edge of the excavation that can cause a collapse
• Improper protective systems
• Exposure to vehicular traffic
• Accidental severing of underground utility lines
Roofers should note the following key points from this article:
• Before excavation work can begin, it is necessary to determine the location of utilities underground, such as:
o Gas lines – call your local Colorado utility to determine where these are located
o Electric lines – call your local Colorado utility to determine where these are buried
• When exposed to public vehicular traffic, roofers must wear high visibility and reflective vests or other suitable garments.
• Roofers must not work under equipment that will be moving loads or digging equipment.
• Excavation may contain roofer exposure to potentially hazardous atmospheres.
• Do not work in excavations where water is present or accumulating unless precautions are taken.
Remember: To help ensure safety, daily inspections of excavations, adjacent areas and protective systems must be made by a competent person. Keep yourself, your crewmembers, and other trades safe by following these important tips when working around excavations in Colorado Springs, Denver, Parker and Boulder.
