What To Do If You Hit An Underground Utility Line

How to Know You've Hit a Utility Line



Before taking the appropriate steps, it’s vital to know how to tell if you’ve hit an underground utility line. Here are some signs that indicate a line has been struck:

• Sparks coming from the ground

• An electrical surge or shock when hitting the line

• Foul odours coming from around the area

• Smoke or flames coming from the ground

• A loud noise or hissing sound when hitting the line

It's essential to shut down the machinery or power source as soon as you notice any of these signs.

Follow Safety Precautions

Once you have located the line, it is essential to follow all safety precautions. Keep a reasonable distance from the area, as there may still be live electricity running through the lines. It is also important to ensure that no one goes near any excavated areas until authorities are contacted, and repairs can be made.

Contact The Appropriate Authorities

Once you have identified that you have hit an underground utility line, contact the appropriate authorities immediately. In Australia, Dial Before You Dig (D.B.Y.D.) is the service responsible for locating and marking underground infrastructure. Contacting them should be your first point of call, and they can provide advice on further steps to take.

Handling Damages & Repairs

Once the authorities have been contacted, they will assess the damage and allocate responsibility for repairs. It is important to keep records of any conversations with D.B.Y.D. or other providers, as this information may be required for insurance claims. Depending on the type of utility line struck, you may need to contact an accredited installer to fix it properly.



Once the line is fixed, installing markers in the vicinity of the area can be beneficial. This will help notify others that there are underground lines and prevent any future issues from occurring. It is crucial to ensure that all necessary safety precautions are taken before starting any excavation work onsite.



By taking appropriate steps when you hit an underground utility line, you can stay safe and avoid costly damages. Keep this information in mind before breaking ground and contact the authorities if necessary. With a little knowledge and awareness, you can prevent any future accidents or damage to underground lines.

If you’re still unsure how to proceed, chat with the team at Groundvac Mackay. We can provide advice and assistance to ensure your site remains safe and compliant with the relevant regulations. Contact us today for more information.