field safety compliance
field safety compliance

Customer

Oncor

Location

Texas

Highlights

  • Incorrect Grading Materials Identified Before Use
  • Prevented Major Compliance Violation and Rework
  • Reinforced Field Accountability and Documentation Practices

Enforcing Material Compliance and Upholding Field Standards in Utility Projects

The Challenge

During a routine oversight on an internal field safety project, an incident occurred involving a grading contractor attempting to use non-compliant materials for regrading work. The crew arrived without essential tools (laser or grade stick) and attempted to unload material not verified as TX DOT base, contrary to Oncor’s specifications. Despite pushback from the contractor’s internal team, including miscommunications and insistence on prior usage practices, proper verification processes were initiated, preventing costly and non-compliant installation.

Root Cause Analysis 


  • Improper Verification Procedures: The contractor attempted to use commercial base material without confirming it met TX DOT specifications. 
  • Lack of Professional Accountability: Field management demonstrated resistance and evasiveness when confronted with compliance checks. 
  • Cultural Oversight: A false assumption that previously used materials were acceptable created a cycle of continued non-compliance. 
 

The Solution

Immediate Remediation 

Upon identifying the material discrepancy, the field lead contacted the plant directly to confirm the load was not TX DOT compliant. Visual evidence (load ticket photos) and historical project documentation were used to reinforce the claim. The crew was instructed to remove all non-compliant material and cease further installation. 

Protocol Reinforcement 

The field team re-emphasized the use of proper documentation, load verification, and adherence to bid specifications. Engineering escalation protocols were reinforced, with clear communication channels reaffirmed between field oversight and project management. 

Personnel Coordination  Despite reluctance from contractor leadership to engage, the field lead maintained communication professionalism and upheld the contractual expectations by referencing scope documentation and past project records. 

Key Benefits

  • Compliance Maintained: Prevented the use of substandard material that would have violated Oncor’s requirements. 
  • Avoided Rework Costs: Early detection saved significant labor and material rework. 
  • Field Oversight Validated: Demonstrated the importance of on-site vigilance and proactive verification. 
  • Improved Cultural Awareness: Reinforced the message that shortcuts taken on other projects are not acceptable practice. 
 

The Results

The contractor’s incorrect material delivery was intercepted before use, preserving the integrity of the regrade and utility material compliance with TX DOT standards. The crew was required to spend the remainder of the day removing the unauthorized material, and internal stakeholders were reminded of the escalation path for material changes. The case is now used internally as an example of the importance of enforcing specifications, even under resistance, and highlights the need for integrity in project execution. 

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