What should be done when conflicting utility locate marks are found?

What should be done when conflicting utility locate marks are found?

• A. Proceed with the work.
• B. Ignore the discrepancy and continue.
• C. Halt work, consult the responsible utility owner and MDT, and adjust plans as required.
• D. Document the discrepancy and continue.

Answer: (C)

When marks don’t agree, nothing else should be done until it’s resolved. Stop work and coordinate with the person or company responsible for the utilities and with MDT to verify the exact locations and plan of action. Conflicting marks can mean a mis-mark, a former utility’s line, or an unseen conduit, and attempting to proceed risks striking a buried line, causing damage or injury. The proper course is to have the utility owner confirm what lines exist, their accurate location, and any required depth or protection. MDT involvement helps coordinate multiple utilities and any necessary plan changes. Based on what they determine, you’ll adjust the project plan, which may include rerouting, relocating work, or changing methods. After the discrepancy is resolved, re-locate and re-mark before resuming work, and document the resolution to maintain a clear record.

When marks don’t agree, nothing else should be done until it’s resolved. Stop work and coordinate with the person or company responsible for the utilities and with MDT to verify the exact locations and plan of action. Conflicting marks can mean a mis-mark, a former utility’s line, or an unseen conduit, and attempting to proceed risks striking a buried line, causing damage or injury.

The proper course is to have the utility owner confirm what lines exist, their accurate location, and any required depth or protection. MDT involvement helps coordinate multiple utilities and any necessary plan changes. Based on what they determine, you’ll adjust the project plan, which may include rerouting, relocating work, or changing methods. After the discrepancy is resolved, re-locate and re-mark before resuming work, and document the resolution to maintain a clear record.