During backfilling of a trench for a utility pipe, what is the best practice for compaction of the initial lift directly above the pipe?

Question: During backfilling of a trench for a utility pipe, what is the best practice for compaction of the initial lift directly above the pipe?

Answer options:

• A. Use the excavator bucket to tamp the soil directly.
• B. Backfill in large lifts and compact with heavy vibratory rollers. ✅ C. Use hand compaction or light mechanical vibratory plates to avoid pipe damage.
• D. Simply push the soil in and let natural settlement occur.

Correct answer: C. Use hand compaction or light mechanical vibratory plates to avoid pipe damage.

Explanation: To prevent damage to the newly installed pipe, the initial lifts of backfill material directly above the pipe should be carefully placed and compacted using hand methods or light-duty vibratory compaction equipment. Heavier equipment or inappropriate methods can compromise pipe integrity.