Accidental contact with underground utility lines can be dangerous
and cost millions in repairs and delays. Time spent properly locating
and mapping utilities before starting construction can significantly
lower the risk. The story below illustrates what can happen...
Fatal Gas Line Explosion in New Jersey
Bergenfield, NJ - Three people have died and five were injured critically
in a gas explosion that engulfed an apartment building in flames. Four
people are unaccounted for and may be bured in the rubble. Initial
reports said an excavator digging to remove a buried oil tank had exposed
a marked gas line.
The explosion drove most occupants to scramble to safety before fire
swept through the apartments. Because of massive smoke clouds and flames,
firefighters could not get close enough to the building to rescue anyone
who may have been trapped inside.
Reports said that 400 firefighters were battling the flames for much
of the day.
Excerpt taken from:
UNDERGROUND FOCUS
A Journal Serving the Underground Utility Jungle since 1986
January 2006 - Volume 20 - Issue 1
Exercise "due diligence" and call CMH
Underground to find out how you can prevent underground utility damages
from occuring on your construction site.
