Gas Networks Ireland reminds you to 'Dial Before You Dig' during Construction Safety Week

"Checking for the location of underground gas pipes before starting any excavation works can help prevent accidental damage to pipelines which can cause major disruption or serious injury."

That’s the message from Construction Safety Week (October 17-28) sponsors Gas Networks Ireland, as the energy utility reminds contractors to put safety first and always Dial Before You Dig’.

In 2021, there were over 400 incidents of damage caused to distribution gas pipes in towns and cities, as well as nearly 40 incidents of unauthorised excavation close to high pressure cross-country transmission pipelines.

Gas Networks Ireland’s Networks Safety Manager, Owen Wilson, said

Transporting large amounts of energy is Gas Networks Ireland’s core business and doing that safely is at the heart of what we do, which is why we are proud to support Construction Safety Week for another year.

“Obtaining maps of underground services and checking for the location of pipelines is a critical step for contractors when planning any excavation.  Our online ‘Dial Before You Dig’ service provides quick and easy access to these maps.”  

Since going live three years ago,  Gas Networks Ireland’s multi-award winning 'Dial Before You Dig' portal www.gasnetworks.ie/dial  has gained more than 4,500 registered users and has been used over 50,000 times.

“If there is a high-pressure transmission pipeline near where you plan to work, we can advise on safety requirements, where needed mark out the location of the pipeline and, for certain locations, provide an inspector to oversee the work. This service is free and designed to ensure your safety and that of those around you.” Mr Wilson added.

Construction Safety Week is an initiative of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) Safety and Health Subcommittee and takes place from 17th to 28th October 2022, with themed days each focussing on different aspects of safety, health and wellbeing. 

Gas Networks Ireland has prepared a simple guide, ‘Safety Advice for Working in the Vicinity of Natural Gas Pipes’, which contains information on the risks associated with excavating near natural gas pipelines, the correct steps to take to stay safe and other useful information when excavating near gas pipelines.

For a copy of this guide, to obtain network maps or to find out more information including specific advice for farmers and landowners visit www.gasnetworks.ie/dial.

Gas Networks Ireland's free Dial Before You Dig service provides information, advice and maps on the gas pipeline network.  Before starting any excavation work, it is essential to check for the location of gas pipes by calling 1800 42 77 47, emailing dig@gasnetworks.ie or visiting www.gasnetworks.ie/dial.