Service Strike Emergency Procedure

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-BUR-007  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

Why?

Save livesGas explosions and electrical contacts from service strikes kill construction workers.
Rapid responseCorrect immediate actions prevent a strike escalating into a fatal incident.
Legal requirementRIDDOR requires notification of dangerous occurrences including major strikes.
Prevent escalationWrong actions after a strike — such as phones near gas leaks — worsen incidents.
Do Don't
  • Stop all work immediately if a service strike occurs.
  • Evacuate the immediate area and establish a safe cordon.
  • Call the relevant emergency number for the utility type struck.
  • Keep everyone clear until the utility provider arrives and clears the area.
  • Report every service strike to your supervisor and site manager.
  • Move upwind if gas is suspected — do not create any ignition sources.
  • Record exactly what happened, where, and what equipment was in use.
  • Know the emergency numbers for gas, electric, water, and telecoms.
  • Follow the site-specific procedure displayed at the site office.
  • Provide first aid to injured persons only once the area is safe.
  • DON'T touch a damaged cable or pipe — assume it is live or pressurised.
  • DON'T use mobile phones or radios near a suspected gas leak.
  • DON'T start or move vehicles or plant near a gas escape.
  • DON'T attempt to repair or clamp a damaged gas main yourself.
  • DON'T re-enter the exclusion zone until the utility provider gives clearance.
  • DON'T ignore a minor strike — all damage must be reported and assessed.
  • DON'T continue excavating after a strike even if the damage looks minor.
  • DON'T operate electrical switches near a suspected gas leak.
  • DON'T smoke or create sparks anywhere near a gas escape.
  • DON'T move a machine that has struck an electrical cable — stay in the cab.

See also: Safe Digging Practices (HSG47) | Working Near Gas Mains
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