The NDEA Process
“The Australian Standard, AS5488-2013, Classification of Subsurface Utilities, lists the required Quality Levels for attaining accurate information on the relative spatial position of subsurface utilities. To reach the highest Quality Level A, non destructive excavation is utilised to safely and quickly expose the utility without damage. Once exposed, you are able to confirm the precise position of the subsurface utility in three dimensions, as well as identify the utility’s size, condition and indicative material type, with a relative spatial position (horizontal and vertical) to +/- 50mm.
AS5488-2013
DBYD
Safework docs etc
- Plan: Plan ahead by lodging your Dial Before You Dig enquiry at least two business days before starting any excavation to ensure you have the correct information and safety measures in place.
- Pothole: To establish the exact location of all underground infrastructure, pothole if permitted using the asset owner s stated method as specified on the asset owners plan and/or information pack.
- Protect: If potholing has occurred, protect the infrastructure by using various methods; such as communicating to all working on site, erecting barriers and/or marking the location of the exposed infrastructure.
- Proceed: You should only proceed with your excavation work after you have planned, potholed (unless prohibited) and have protective measures in place. Never assume the depth, location or alignment of an infrastructure asset.
If you have any doubt about the location of underground assets, engage NDEA, Protectors of Underground Infrastructure
AS5488-2013 – Classification of Subsurface Utility Information (SUI) – Primary Code And Line Colour
