Hand-Dig Tolerance Zone Compliance Log

Field inspection log for documenting hand-digging within the tolerance zone around marked utilities, including separation maintained, supervisor presence, hand-tool use, and corrective actions when deficiencies are found.

Inspection Details

• Job site location and work order identified
• Inspection date and time recorded
• Utilities marked and tolerance zone verified before digging

Tolerance Zone and Exposure Controls

• Hand-digging used within the tolerance zone
  Confirm that no mechanized excavation was used inside the tolerance zone around marked utilities.
• Minimum separation maintained from marked utility
  Record the measured separation maintained during exposure or excavation near the marked utility.
• Utility exposed without damage or coating compromise
• Utility protected from abrasion, impact, or movement

Crew, Supervision, and Tools

• Competent supervisor or designated lead on site
  Verify that a responsible supervisor was present to direct hand-digging activities and utility exposure.
• Hand tools used for excavation
  Select all hand tools or non-mechanized exposure methods used at the utility interface.
• Mechanized equipment excluded from tolerance zone
• Crew briefed on utility strike hazards and stop-work expectations
  Confirm the crew understood the utility location, hand-dig requirements, and escalation process if markings were unclear.

PPE and Work Area Controls

• Required PPE worn by crew
• Work area barricaded or controlled as needed
  Confirm the immediate excavation area was controlled to prevent unauthorized access and protect exposed utilities.
• Spoil pile and equipment positioned away from exposed utility

Deficiencies and Sign-Off

• Deficiencies or non-conformances identified
  Document any deviation from the hand-dig procedure, utility protection requirements, or site controls.
• Corrective actions completed before work continued
• Inspector signature