|
 |
|
| Like many utilities, Unitil installs underground natural gas pipelines and power lines using a trenchless technique that avoids damage to streets, sidewalks, and landscapes. On rare occasions, sewer laterals serving homes or businesses may not be detected when new utility lines are installed in this manner. As a result, a utility line may be bored directly through a sewer lateral in what is known as a “cross bore.” |
| Order our FREE worker safety kit on the Unitil e‑SMARTworkers website. |
|
|
|
|
| Know the Dangers |
| A cross bore through a sewer lateral will impede the flow of sewage and eventually lead to a blockage. If you attempt to remove the blockage with mechanical equipment, you risk cutting a live natural gas or electric utility line, threatening lives and property with fire, explosion, or serious electrical shock. |
| Call Before You Clear |
| Before clearing any blockage, call Unitil’s gas emergency number (below) for immediate assistance. Unitil will dispatch a technician to meet with you and the property owner to locate the gas pipeline. |
| If You Work for a Public Sewer Agency |
| Be alert for cross bores in sewer mains, and follow the precaution cited here before attempting to clear any blockage. |
| Would You Like to Know More? |
| Additional utility safety tips, case studies, instructional videos, and educational tools can all be found, at no charge to you, on Unitil’s e‑SMARTworkers website. |
|
