{"id":571,"date":"2019-10-30T15:29:23","date_gmt":"2019-10-30T22:29:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/?p=571"},"modified":"2019-11-04T16:22:03","modified_gmt":"2019-11-04T23:22:03","slug":"whats-buried-under-your-construction-site","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/whats-buried-under-your-construction-site\/","title":{"rendered":"What\u2019s Buried Under Your Construction Site?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>Finding toxic waste or hazardous materials isn\u2019t the only disturbing thing you might find as you dig into a construction site. In many parts of the country, people start work on a construction project only to learn that it was a sacred burial ground long ago. There may be laws you have to follow when you discover such things, especially if they involve human remains. Here\u2019s a few tips that will help you keep your head and your project on schedule.<\/span><\/p>\n

Consider Testing Before You Dig
\n<\/strong>You can often avoid a lot of problems simply by doing some research in advance of the project. If you\u2019re subcontracting, you might not have as much say in the process before you start. Otherwise, consider getting a sense for what might be under the surface. Soil testing helps to reveal possible contaminants or toxins that could cause problems once they come out of the ground. If you\u2019re worried that you might be disrupting an old graveyard or burial ground, look at old surveys of the property. You might even be able to see old pictures to give you more information.<\/span><\/p>\n

Research Local Rules
\n<\/strong>In California, this practice is common enough that there may be state and local guidelines in place to guide your actions. In September 2019, workers participating in a project to widen the 405 in Orange County found remains they believed to come from Indigenous Americans. The law dictates that they were unable to release information about the location or what they found except to local authorities. Investigate state laws concerning finding human remains, and see if the city or county has a task force that helps to handle the situation. This will help ensure that you can manage things without making yourself liable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Create a Plan of Action
\n<\/strong>No one expects to dig into the ground and find bones unless they\u2019re working in a field like archeology or anthropology. This means that you and your employees might be surprised or even shocked by the presence of remains. It\u2019s best to start with a plan of action. Tell your employees that if they find remains, they should:<\/span><\/p>\n