Where should you dig to locate a sewer line?

To accurately locate a sewer line, it is important to understand how sewer lines are typically placed and the common practices for excavation. The correct action in this scenario involves digging 18 inches above where the sewer line is indicated on the plans. This approach allows for potential inaccuracies in the actual placement of the sewer line, which can occur due to factors like construction changes, soil settlement, or errors in mapping.

Sewer lines are often buried underground, and the specified depths in plans may not always account for the actual conditions on site. By digging above the indicated location, you reduce the risk of damaging the sewer line accidentally while still allowing for adjustment based on the plan. It’s a precautionary tactic that helps to ensure safety and minimizes disruption during the excavating process.

In contrast, digging at the exact location specified in the plans could lead to unexpected issues if the sewer line is not precisely where shown, and digging below the depth indicated in the plans could mean creating a risk of hitting the line without proper caution. This is why understanding proper excavation techniques and measurements relative to the plans is vital in any utility work.