Learn before you dig: How BYDA’s free training programs can safeguard your site
When it comes to excavation and construction, the risks are as deep as the trenches you dig. From costly delays and safety hazards to service disruptions that ripple across entire projects, the challenges can be immense. To help combat this, Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) has created a series of training programs that they provide free of charge to contractors and businesses.
Available online and in person, these programs are designed to equip your team with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of excavation confidently. BYDA’s training offers practical, actionable insights that protect your site, workers, and bottom line.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key benefits of BYDA’s training sessions, how they work, and why they’re an essential resource for any organisation involved in groundworks.
From general awareness to plan reading—two essential sessions for excavation safety
BYDA offers two specialised training programs designed to address the core challenges of excavation safety. These online or in-person sessions empower teams with practical skills and knowledge to ensure safe and efficient operations. Whether you seek a general understanding of excavation best practices or tips for carrying out practical asset plan interpretation, these programs provide the tools your team needs to work confidently and avoid costly mistakes.
BYDA Awareness Session
The BYDA Awareness Session is the foundation of excavation safety training. This program covers critical topics, including:
- The role of BYDA in safe digging practices.
- How to comply with asset-owner instructions and avoid service disruptions.
- Practical strategies to mitigate and prevent damage to underground assets.
- Real-world scenarios highlighting the consequences of improper excavation.
This session focuses on creating safer work environments and ensures that participants are well-equipped to identify and manage risks during any excavation project.
Plan Reading Session
The Plan Reading Session is tailored for those who need to interpret complex asset plans effectively. Participants will learn:
- How to read and understand asset owners’ plans, legends, and symbols.
- Techniques for quickly identifying multiple asset types to avoid project delays.
- Best practices for using these insights to ensure smooth execution.
This session provides essential skills for navigating the complexities of modern infrastructure projects, helping teams work more efficiently and with greater accuracy.
What are the benefits of the training programs for your operations?
BYDA’s free training programs offer a range of benefits for businesses and their workforce, helping to enhance onsite safety, confidence, and overall project success. Here’s how these sessions can make a difference:
1. Improves safety standards
The training equips your team with the knowledge to follow best practices for safe excavation, minimising the risk of accidents and injuries on-site. By learning to identify and avoid potential hazards, your workforce will be better prepared to create a safer work environment for everyone involved.
2. Reduces costs and delays
Damage to underground assets can lead to expensive repairs, legal repercussions, and significant delays in project timelines. BYDA’s programs focus on damage prevention and compliance with asset-owner guidelines, helping you avoid unnecessary expenses and keep projects on track.
3. Fosters a confident workforce
Skilled and informed workers are more confident and effective in their roles. BYDA’s sessions provide actionable insights and practical tools that empower your team to handle excavation challenges easily, fostering a sense of competence and teamwork.
4. Helps strengthen your industry reputation
Adopting safe practices benefits your operations and your reputation within the industry. Clients and partners will appreciate your commitment to training, safety, and compliance, positioning your business as a trusted and reliable choice.
BYDA’s training programs aren’t just about meeting safety requirements—they’re about setting your projects up for long-term success. These sessions give your team the tools and confidence to tackle challenges head-on, ensuring smoother, safer, and more cost-effective operations.
Hear from contractors who’ve experienced the BYDA advantage
Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what contractors who’ve attended our sessions have to say:
"The session was incredibly helpful. As a water utility business, excavation is our bread and butter. We had over 95 participants, including subcontractors, dial into the presentation, and there was plenty of depth and real-world examples to keep the diversity of roles and experience levels interested."
– Liam @ Downer
"It was invaluable having BYDA attend our depot and give a session on reading plans correctly. With the rapid evolution of infrastructure, it has shown us how to further understand multiple asset owners’ coding so we can now identify them quicker and with greater accuracy."
– Ben @ Barwon Asset Solutions
Find out more and book your free training session today
BYDA’s free training programs are here to help you protect your workforce, streamline operations, and avoid costly disruptions—completely free of charge. With both online and in-person options available, these sessions are flexible and tailored to meet your needs.
Don’t wait for mistakes to happen—take proactive steps to safeguard your projects and boost your team’s confidence. Visit the BYDA website today to learn more and book your free training session.
Together, let’s build safer and more successful excavation practices for the future.