This guide outlines the hazards that can arise from work near underground services and gives advice on how to reduce the risk. It deals principally with risks to health and safety and is not so concerned with damage that has no personal risk. However, the precautions needed to reduce the risk of personal injury will reduce the risk of damage generally, and lower the cost of performing work to utilities, contractors, and society.

It is stressed that many of the underground services encountered in road reserves present a very serious and potentially fatal hazard if damaged (for example: electricity and gas). As a consequence, personnel engaged in excavation work have a particular responsibility under the Health and Safety in Employment (HSE) Act 1992 to identify and manage these hazards.

Table of Contents

Foreword
Introduction
Application
Who Should Use This Guide
How To Use This Guide
Definitions
The Dangers
     11.1 Electricity Cables
     11.2 Gas Pipes
     11.3 Liquid Petroleum Services or Oil Pipelines
     11.4 Water and Waste Water Pipes
     11.5 Telecommunication Cables
     11.6 Costs and Damages
Safe Systems of Work
     12.1 Plans and Mark-Outs
     12.2 Cable and Pipe Locating Devices
     12.3 Safe Digging Practice
Plans and Mark-Outs
Cable and Pipe Location Devices
Safe Digging Practice
Safe Systems for Work for Trenchless Methods
New Housing Developments
Installation of New Services Near Existing Services
Demolition Sites

Appendices

Appendix 1: Electricity Cables
Appendix 2: Gas Pipes
Appendix 3: Water and Waste Water Pipes
Appendix 4: Telecommunications Cables
Appendix 5: Legislation and Guides Relating to Underground Services
Appendix 6: First Aid
Appendix 7: Work Procedures
Appendix 8: Duct Colours Used in the Past
Appendix 9: Contact Telephone Numbers