What should you do if you encounter an underground utility line while digging?

• A. Stop work, notify the site utility locator, and maintain a safe distance until the line is identified and protected.
• B. Continue digging but slow down near the line.
• C. Dig around the line to expose it quickly.
• D. Ignore it and proceed if the line is not marked.

Answer: (A)

When you hit an underground utility while digging, the immediate priority is safety and preventing damage. Pause all digging and shut down or slow equipment as needed to keep people and gear out of the excavation area. Notify the site utility locator or supervisor right away so the buried line can be located and properly protected. Stay clear of the area and maintain a safe distance until the utility is identified, marked, and a protective plan is put in place. Only after the line is identified and a safe working zone is established should work resume, using approved procedures to expose or work around the line if necessary.

Continuing to dig near the line, attempting to expose it yourself, or ignoring the line is marked are all unsafe and violate standard safety procedures, because striking an underground utility can cause serious injury, fire, or service outages.