• 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