White-Lining Verification Pre-Excavation

Verifies the proposed excavation area has been white-lined by the excavator with paint, flags, stakes, lines, or polygons before utility locates are performed.

Inspection Details

• Excavation site and work order identified
  Record the project name, location, ticket number, or work order tied to this verification.
• Date and time of verification
  Capture when the white-lining verification was completed.
• Inspector name and role
  Enter the inspector's name and job role.

White-Lining Presence and Visibility

• Proposed dig area is clearly white-lined
  Verify the excavator has marked the proposed excavation limits before locates are performed.
• White-lining method is visible and identifiable
  Select all marking methods observed at the site.
• White markings are continuous and define the full proposed dig area
  Confirm the markings trace the full excavation footprint, including irregular boundaries where applicable.
• Markings are visible from normal approach distance
  Verify the white-lining can be readily seen by locators and field personnel without ambiguity.

Boundary Accuracy and Completeness

• Markings match the planned excavation footprint
  Check that the white-lined area corresponds to the intended dig limits shown on the plan or field instructions.
• Access points, trench runs, and work zones are included
  Verify all intended excavation areas, including access and staging areas that affect locating, are marked as needed.
• Any changes to the dig area were communicated before locating
  Confirm the excavator communicated any revised limits or field changes before locates were performed.

Site Conditions and Readiness for Locates

• White-lining is not obscured by debris, vegetation, snow, or standing water
  Confirm the markings remain discernible under current site conditions.
• No conflicting markings create ambiguity
  Verify there are no other marks, paint colors, or site indicators that would confuse the locate area.
• Locator access to the marked area is unobstructed
  Confirm locators can access the marked excavation area safely and without unnecessary obstruction.