Staying Vigilant in the Field
Our Good Catch Program continues to spotlight employees who demonstrate exceptional awareness and commitment to safety. This month, we recognize a crew whose quick thinking and decisive action prevented what could have been a serious incident. Their use of stop work authority and attention to changing jobsite conditions exemplifies the proactive safety culture we strive to uphold.
Recognizing the Hazard
While trenching on Glenside Avenue, approximately 160 feet north of Greenwood, an IFS Civil Crew noticed a change in ground conditions. Rather than proceeding, they immediately halted excavation and began hand digging to investigate further. Their caution paid off—they uncovered a 6-inch plastic gas main crossing the trench diagonally, which had been mismarked by the locator as being 56 feet north of its actual location.
Verification and Response
An inspector was on site and verified the discovery. The crew’s decision to stop and reassess the situation not only prevented a potential dig-in but also safeguarded the surrounding community and infrastructure from a potentially dangerous gas line rupture.
Empowered to Act
This incident is a powerful reminder of the importance of empowering our teams to speak up and take action. The crew’s confidence in using their stop work authority, combined with their experience and adherence to safety protocols, made all the difference.
Kudos to the IFS Civil Crew for their vigilance and dedication. Their actions reflect the core values of our safety culture—where every team member is encouraged to observe, question, and act to prevent hazards before they become incidents.
