WorkSafeBC publishes incident summaries based on information obtained as soon as possible after the incidents: they are preliminary and subject to change. Details have been edited to protect workers’ privacy. See additional summaries online.
Two excavation related incidents stand out in the August 28th, 2025 summary report – this is what happens when you don’t plan ahead, Click or Call Before You Dig, and follow safe digging practices.
| Injury Type: Close call | |
| Core Activity: Excavation operation | |
| Location: Interior B.C. | |
| Date of Incident: 2025-Jul | ID Number: 2025194950008 |
| During work to install new water mains, an excavator struck and damaged an underground propane main line. The utility provider responded and controlled the release after three hours. Several residences and businesses were evacuated. | |
| Injury Type: Close call | |
| Core Activity: Excavation, or private landfill or transfer station operation | |
| Location: Vancouver Island/Coastal B.C. | |
| Date of Incident: 2025-Jul | ID Number: 2025197990009 |
| An excavator was digging a trench 2 metres deep to open up a water main for repairs. A hydrovac was being used to reveal underground utility lines and pipes every 10 feet before the excavator dug the next portion. The excavator struck a gas line (2.5-inch diameter) running perpendicular to the water line, and an uncontrolled release of natural gas occurred for about four hours. The fire department and utility owner responded, and a nearby building was evacuated. | |