Understand Locator Marks Dig Safely Home< BackNext >

Utility locator markings protect you.
Make sure you and your crew know how to read utility locator markings and know the American Public Works Association (APWA) uniform color code for marking underground utilities. Color code charts are usually available from the Oregon Utility Notification Center.

Locator flags are placed within paint marks.
If you find flags outside the borders of locator markings, someone may have tampered with them. Contact the Oregon Utility Notification Center.

 

APWA Color Codes:
Electric Power Lines
Gas, Oil, or Steam
Communication Lines, Cables, or Conduit
Potable Water
Reclaimed Water, Irrigation, and Slurry Lines
Sewer and Drain Lines
Temporary Survey Markings
Proposed Excavation

 

Utility locator markings protect you from injury and prevent damage to underground utilities. Make sure you and your crew know how to read them.

DID YOU KNOW?

You might arrive at a job site and find no markers, even AFTER utility locating has been completed. In this case, do not assume that the area is clear of utilities. Someone may have pulled up the flags or rubbed out the markings, or the locator may have marked the wrong site. Check for indicators that buried utilities may be present, such as electric boxes, transformers, and gas and electric meters. Contact the Oregon Utility Notification Center for assistance before starting work.