What do utility markings mean

Though you might have guessed these markings indicate the presence of some critical underground infrastructure, you might not know that the lines — and the colors chosen — are part of an international standard. It could save your life, or at least save you from expensive and embarrassing delays. The color code standards was established by the American Public Works Association. Excavators and contractors learn the code by heart, and stay aware of the markings whenever they work on underground projects.

White stands for the proposed borders of an excavation. When crews need to mark the limits of the excavation needed for a basement, or even just a trench, they mark the outlines in white paint. This is usually the first step before any underground infrastructure is precisely located. It shows where the digging will occur. This is definitely something to avoid. The green markings are very important. Stay away from the green markings. Here you can see four 4-inch plastic conduits and the telecommunications company owner.

The company name identifier must always appear at the top or to the left in the abbreviation order, followed by appropriate construction descriptions, and end with the infrastructure material. Image: Flickr. Mapping and marking the underground infrastructure is a complex task, and these intricate symbols provide a brief window into these important and intricate systems. Hand digging within the Approximate Location to expose the facility before proceeding with mechanical equipment is highly recommended.

Landscaping and erosion can change the installed depth of an underground facility. You should never assume the depth of any facility. One of the most common causes of damages occurs when the excavator assumes the depth of a facility and mechanically digs within the approximate location area.

Underground utilities might be closer to the surface than you think. Keep in mind, utilities will mark the underground facilities they own, usually up to the meter. Facilities from the meter into the house are privately owned and as a rule, are not marked by the utilities. It is the excavators responsibility to determine where these private facilities are located.

Deciphering Utility Codes Around the World Some places, like Scotland, offer excavators detailed maps of utilities, but in the rest of the UK, for instance, people are on their own when it comes to finding and avoiding obstacles. Sid the Cat. Max Beck. Tammie Houston. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. More in Cities Episode - Chapter 1: Tulicia. Episode - The SoHo Effect.

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