A backhoe operator is digging a small trench for utility connections on a municipal park project. Before beginning, the operator performed a 'Call Before You Dig' inquiry, and utility locates indicated telecommunications lines within 1 metre (3.3 feet) of the proposed trench. What is the safest excavation method for breaking ground near these marked lines?

Question: A backhoe operator is digging a small trench for utility connections on a municipal park project. Before beginning, the operator performed a 'Call Before You Dig' inquiry, and utility locates indicated telecommunications lines within 1 metre (3.3 feet) of the proposed trench. What is the safest excavation method for breaking ground near these marked lines?

Answer options:

• Use the backhoe's bucket cautiously, making shallow passes until the lines are exposed. ✅ Dig by hand with shovels to carefully expose the utility lines.
• Employ a mechanical trencher set to a shallow depth to avoid the lines.
• Assume the lines are deeper than 1 metre and proceed with machine excavation as planned.

Correct answer: Dig by hand with shovels to carefully expose the utility lines.

Explanation: Canadian standards and best practices dictate that when excavating within 1 metre of marked underground utilities, hand-digging is required to carefully expose and verify the exact location of the lines before mechanical excavation can resume.