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Water Pipes

Hazard Related Topics

Introduction

The HSE Booklet HS(G)47 "Avoiding Danger from Underground Services" gives detailed guidance and sets out procedures for working in the vicinity of underground mains and services of any type. There is a legal obligation that any activity shall be carried out in such a manner as not to give rise to danger.

It must always be assumed that an underground pipeline is live unless categorically proved to the contrary!! Contract documents should require that all operations are carried out in accordance with this advice.

Specimen or Standard Clause

  1. The position of existing water mains identified on drawings is based on information supplied by the Water Authority. The client does not guarantee accuracy and the contractor must make his own inquiries to determine the position of Water Authority's mains and services.
  2. The contractor shall comply with the HSE Booklet HS(G)47 "Avoiding of Danger from Underground Services"
  3. The contractor must have in place and have issued to his employees written procedures for carrying out works within the vicinity of live water mains.
  4. The contractor shall comply with the relevant clauses of the specification detailing how operations shall be carried out in the vicinity of water mains or services.