Streamlining Utility Work with DICA’s Comprehensive Support Products
In the utilities industry, the efficiency and safety of setting utility poles are paramount. From navigating the challenges of diverse terrain to setting poles and stringing wire, every phase of the operation demands precision and reliability. DICA USA offers a suite of innovative support products designed specifically for Digger Derrick and Aerial Bucket Truck operations, enhancing both safety and efficiency from the job site’s arrival to departure.
Arrival and Site Access: Navigating the Terrain with DICA Site Access Mats
The first challenge in utility pole installation is accessing the job site, which is often hindered by uneven terrain, soft ground, or environmentally sensitive areas. DICA’s line of Site Access Mats provide robust temporary roadways and platforms for equipment to operate from. These mats distribute weight and can provide buoyancy to help prevent sinking into soft soils and protect the underlying environment. Their interlocking design ensures a stable, slip-resistant surface that reduces risks for vehicles and crew.
EnviroMat is ideal for creating temporary roadways for your equipment.
Equipment Setup & Operation: Establishing a Solid Foundation with Supporting Materials
Outrigger Pads
Once on-site, setting up Digger Derricks and Aerial Bucket trucks in a stable and level position is crucial to improving safety. DICA’s SafetyTech Outrigger Pads are a proven lightweight essential product for this stage. Made from high-performance materials, SafetyTech pads provide a strong, stable base to keep equipment upright and minimize movement during operations. DICA offers a large range of outrigger pads to meet any equipment and job site needs, including Cavity Pad and Cavity Pad Plus that prevent sliding.
Leveling
The safety of pole setting operations in situations where the ground is not level is enhanced by DICA’s LevelRight Adjustable Pads. This patent pending engineered solution offers a unique way to achieve a level surface under an outrigger float in spite of uneven ground conditions. LevelRight Pads can be adjusted from zero to ten degrees and anywhere in between, in two planes to compensate for ground irregularities. This versatile tool allows operators to create a level surface for the stabilizers or outriggers, helping to ensure safe operating conditions by keeping the equipment level within the manufacturer’s specifications.
LevelRight pads rotate to address unlevel surfaces in multiple planes.
Blocking
For operations requiring additional height and stabilization, DICA’s innovative Slot Lock and Pyramid Lock Cribbing Blocks, come into play. Slot Lock Blocks are designed specifically for utility work. Each block weighs less than 30 lbs and features a unique interlocking design that creates a solid platform and eliminates sliding, slipping, or unwanted movement. Pyramid Lock Blocks are larger than Slot Lock blocks and use a pyramid locking surface that is stackable and easily locks into place. Both options significantly increase load distribution and can be paired with base pads designed to engage with each system.
Operations: Ensuring Site Integrity with Pole Hole Covers
After the hole is dug or Hydrovac’ed and before the utility pole is set, a hazard is created that must be addressed to prevent fall in accidents and comply with OSHA regulations. DICA’s Pole Hole Covers are designed to safely cover, and clearly mark open holes. These covers are lightweight, highly visible, easy to deploy, and robust enough to withstand various weather conditions and accidental intrusion, ensuring the site remains safe and intact until the pole is set.
Departure: Leaving No Trace Behind
The final stage of the operation involves removing all equipment and ensuring that the site is left in as good or better condition than it was found. DICA’s Site Access Mats play a critical role again, providing a safe and stable route for heavy equipment to exit without damaging the terrain. Their easy-to-clean and easy-to-stack design ensures that the cleanup process is as efficient as the setup.
We are here to help.
DICA’s range of support products for utility operations revolutionizes the process of digging and setting utility poles. By addressing each phase of the operation with specific, purpose-built solutions, these products not only increase the efficiency and safety of the tasks but also protect the integrity of the job site. Utility companies looking to enhance their operational capabilities and safety standards will find DICA’s offerings an invaluable addition to their equipment fleet.
