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GeoInsighter Winter 1999
Newsletter Stake it - Paint it Before you Dig it Return to the Newsletter Index Standard procedure for an excavating company, driller, or consultant is to notify Dig In many instances, particularly during drilling activities, the exact location of soil borings is not known and is determined in the field based on the results of field screening and observations from the previous boring. Obtaining knowledge of site conditions that would impact boring locations and developing a conceptual plan of all possible boring locations is paramount to a successful investigation. To minimize the risk of damage to underground structures, especially on private property, a representative of the facility should provide site plans and assist with on site mark outs since Dig Safe does not mark out utilities on private property. Consultants and property owners need to coordinate a site visit and account for the additional time and expense associated with complying with this new regulation. Be smart and dig safe. For more information, visit www.digsafe.com/state_laws/ma.html. Brian D. Kisiel Return to the Newsletter
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Safe and local utilities before excavating or drilling on public or private way, right-of-way or easement, or publically or privately owned land. The consequences of not properly following utility mark-out procedures can be costly, even deadly. Effective December 17, 1998, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has amended the regulations governing notification prior to excavation activities. Contractors must now premark the location of excavations or soil borings with either white paint, a white stake, or other suitable white markings. White markings must not reasonably interfere with traffic or pedestrian control or be misleading to the general public. In a non-emergency situation, a description of the excavation must be made to Dig Safe and utility companies at least 72 hours prior to excavation to allow for mark-out of a safety zone. Utility companies will continue to utilize standard color-coded markings to distinguish underground structures and conduits.