Page 66 - CCGA Best Practices Version English

4-28: Vacuum Excavation Definition

Practice Statement: Vacuum excavation is defined as a mechanical means
of soil extraction through vacuum when using water or air jet devices for
breaking ground. This method of excavation is commonly referred to as “soft
excavation technology” and is commonly accepted as being equivalent or
safer than hand digging within the “tolerance zone” around underground
facilities.

Practice Description: Vacuum excavation may be used to excavate
safely around utilities if the equipment has been designed and engineered
for excavating. The equipment is used following the manufacturer’s
recommended practices, documented procedures and meets facility owner
guidelines. Only competent and qualified workers shall operate vacuum
excavation equipment.

4-29: Operator Competency – Vacuum Excavating

Practice Statement: Vacuum excavation equipment shall only be operated
by a “competent worker” as defined by OH&S regulations for Construction
Projects. The operator must have knowledge, training and experience to
perform the work, be familiar with the OH&S Act and the regulations that
apply to the work and have knowledge of all potential or actual danger
to health and safety in the work place. It is a best practice that workers
have training recognized by the industry, defined work practices and
manufacturer’s recommended procedures specific to the equipment they are
operating.

Practice Description: Vacuum excavation equipment operators should
have also completed at a minimum the training outlined by the “IHSA Safe
Practice Guide for Excavating With Hydrovacs in the Vicinity of Underground
Electrical Plant” and training specific to any known facilities in the area of
excavation.

4-30: Safe Operation of Vacuum Excavation Equipment

Practice Statement: Vacuum excavation can be used to excavate safely
around utilities if the equipment has been designed and engineered for
vacuum excavating according to the manufacturer. Equipment must be
operated in accordance with recognized practices and procedures that
provide necessary levels of worker and public safety and prevent damage to
underground utilities.

Canadian Common Ground Alliance
Best Practices Version 3.0 – October 2018
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