Dig Safe Regulations Flashcards

What does the acronym 'APWA' stand for in the context of utility marking colors?

Answer: American Public Works Association

The American Public Works Association established the uniform color code used for utility markings.

An excavator using a backhoe must do what once digging reaches the tolerance zone of a marked line?

Answer: Switch to careful hand digging to expose the line

Within the tolerance zone, mechanical equipment must stop and the line must be exposed by hand to avoid damage.

Who pays for the utility companies to locate and mark their lines after a Dig Safe request?

Answer: The utility owners provide marking at no charge to the excavator

Member utilities mark their own facilities at no cost to the person making the Dig Safe request.

If a contractor abandons a job and resumes weeks later past the 30-day window, what must happen?

Answer: A new Dig Safe notification must be filed

Once the validity period expires, a fresh notification is required before resuming excavation.

Which of the following best describes 'excavation' under Dig Safe rules?

Answer: Any operation that moves earth, rock, or other material below the surface

Excavation broadly includes any activity that disturbs the ground such as digging, trenching, grading, or boring.

What should an excavator do if no markings appear after the required waiting period has passed?

Answer: Contact Dig Safe to confirm status before digging, not assume the area is clear

Missing marks do not guarantee a clear area; the excavator must verify with Dig Safe before proceeding.

Why is it important to maintain the markings throughout the duration of the excavation project?

Answer: So the excavator always knows the location of underground facilities and avoids strikes

Visible, accurate markings throughout the job help prevent accidental strikes and keep workers safe.