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Excavator Operator Certification Exam Prep · Question

During a residential excavation, an excavator operator discovers an unmarked, 50 mm diameter PVC pipe while digging. The pipe is not indicated on any utility locates. What is the immediate course of action?

Discovering an unmarked utility requires immediate cessation of work to prevent damage or injury. The proper procedure is to secure the area and contact the cli

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Question: During a residential excavation, an excavator operator discovers an unmarked, 50 mm diameter PVC pipe while digging. The pipe is not indicated on any utility locates. What is the immediate course of action?

Answer options:

  • Assume it's an abandoned pipe and continue digging carefully around it.
  • Attempt to identify the pipe's purpose by cutting a small section. ✅ Stop excavation immediately, secure the area, and contact the client and relevant utility locate services.
  • Mark the pipe's location and continue digging in another area.

Correct answer: Stop excavation immediately, secure the area, and contact the client and relevant utility locate services.

Explanation: Discovering an unmarked utility requires immediate cessation of work to prevent damage or injury. The proper procedure is to secure the area and contact the client and utility locate services to identify and mark the utility before proceeding, as its purpose and active status are unknown.

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