Ground Disturbance Procedure

Document Number: Facility:

NFP0011A Procedure – Administrative Oil Sands - Facilities
Revision Date: 2014/05/01 FLOC:
Facilities Construction OS1
Revision: 0

Purpose The purpose of the Ground Disturbance Procedure is to establish personnel responsibilities
to assure that a safe work process is in place before performing a ground disturbance (i.e.,
excavation).

Scope This procedure is applicable to all Suncor Energy Inc., Oil Sands employees, contractors,
and vendors; and encompasses all ground disturbance activities affecting Suncor Energy
Inc. assets, areas, services and/or products on Oil Sands operating leases.
Ground disturbances on previously undisturbed land that is not adjacent to any underground
facilities, services or pipelines are not within the scope of this procedure. Examples include:
> Mining activities,
> Drilling and exploration activities,
> Using a hand shovel,
> Routine and minor road surface maintenance – not exceeding 200 mm in depth (7 ½ in).

Responsibilities The following individuals and groups have the following defined responsibilities:

As-Built  Provides pre-numbered GDA forms to Job Coordinators when requested, and
Coordinator logs the pre-numbered GDA forms to the Job Coordinator for tracking purposes.
 Updates controlled drawings with As-Built information after completion of the
excavation and receipt of the completed GDA forms.
 Generates ILP’s if GDA Form is not received back from field as specified in this
procedure.
 Updates as-built drawings as specified in this procedure.

Job Coordinator  Provides oversight of the entire job. This includes, but is not limited to, proper
completion and processing of the GDA Form, and excavation activities.
 Assigns a Ground Disturbance Supervisor who is qualified as specified in the
“Prerequisites” section of this procedure.
 Performs all activities assigned to this individual as specified in this procedure.

Representatives  Reviews drawings to identify underground hazards / interferences that are

listed in Part C applicable to their discipline.
of the GDA  Makes recommendations for excavation requirements, or identifies any other site
Form requirements to help assure a safe excavation, in the comments section of the
GDA Form.

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Approved By: William Bruce, Director of Facilities Operations & Maintenance
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Ground  Oversees scanning activities to assure that the requirements of this procedure
Disturbance are being met.
Supervisor  Ensures that no excavation work proceeds without completion of an approved
GDA Form.
 Ensures that the requirements noted on the GDA Form are met prior to
excavation activities. This includes, but is not limited to, scanning of the area,
hydro-vac, or any other requirements specified on the GDA Form.
 Ensures that the GDA Form, and all supporting documentation (e.g., field
scanning results, marked-up as-built drawings, etc.) is returned to the Job
Coordinator after completion of excavation activities.
 Responsible to ensure the workers have had the training in operating equipment
for excavations, trenching, or any other ground disturbance activities.
 Ensures that workers do not enter an excavation or trench that does not comply
with this procedure.
 Performs all activities assigned to this individual as specified in this procedure.

References

FMGP0034A Facilities Tool Box Talk & FLRA Process

FMGP0038A Facilities Management of Change Process

LMP0058A Standard – Incident Learning and Prevention Procedure

LMS0019A Standard – Erection, Identification & Removal of Flagging

LMS0037A Confined Space Entry Standard

LMS0038A Safe Work Permit Standard

TDS0012 Working in Proximity to Underground Power Cables

Alberta OH&S Excavating and Tunneling

Code Part 32

MOC 950184837 (Revise LMP0062A: Ground Disturbance Procedure)

Prerequisites All Job Coordinators and Ground Disturbance Supervisors that will be overseeing
excavations, are to receive the following:
 Training on this procedure, and
 Safe Trenching, Excavation & Ground Disturbance Program training from the ACSA,
or equivalent.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Definitions The following acronyms and terms are used in this procedure:

Acronym Definition
ACSA Alberta Construction Safety Association
B/U Business Unit
EDD Electrical Distribution Department
EFD Expected Finish Date
ESD Expected Start Date
E&I Electrical & Instrumentation
FLRA Field Level Risk Assessment
GDA Ground Disturbance Authorization
ILP Incident Learning and Prevention
N/R Not Required
PCPS Poplar Creek Power Station
SECPLP Suncor Energy Canadian Pipelines Limited Partnership
SOW Scope of Work
SWP Safe Work Permit
T&D Transmission and Distribution

Term Definition/Requirements
Access for If powered mobile equipment needs to gain access to an excavation, the open side of
Powered Mobile the excavation (or route used by the equipment), shall have a barrier high enough to
Equipment stop the equipment from sliding or rolling into the excavation.

Barriers Ground disturbances are to be guarded with appropriate means. Wherever practical,
hard railings / barricades (metal/wood) must be used as barriers to prevent personnel
from falling into an excavation. High risk, high density traffic areas must have hard
railings / barricades. Barricades should be positioned no more than two feet apart and
in a manner so that the railing of the barricade is 2 feet back from the edge of the
excavation. If adjacent to a traveled roadway, adequate provisions to indicate the
location of the physical barriers shall be placed to warn traffic of the sub-standard
condition or incomplete work area (e.g., flashing hazard warning lights).
NOTE: Flagging to cordon off an area is not the preferred method of guarding
excavations. For cases where circumstances make the use of hard
barricades impractical, appropriate colored flagging and tagging is to be used
to indicate the hazard in accordance with LMS0019A.

Change in Scope A change that will require excavations outside of the original Scan Area.

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Term Definition
Composite An Auto-CAD drawing that shows underground installations in the area of the
Drawing excavation. It is used to record underground installations, via red-lined markups, that
may be shown on other Engineered drawings, or that are found during scanning,
Hydro-vac, etc., of the excavation area in the field.

Confined Space An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not designed or intended for
continuous human occupancy. It has a restricted means of entry or exit and may
become hazardous to a worker entering it because:
 of its design, construction, location or atmosphere,
 of the work activities, materials or substances in it,
 the provision of first aid, evacuation, rescue or other emergency response service
is compromised, or
 of other hazards relating to it.

Cutting Back If the walls of an excavation are cut back, ensure that one of the following is performed
depending on the classification of the soil:
 Hard and compact soil – The walls are sloped to within 1.5 meters (5 ft) of the
bottom of the excavation at an angle of not less than 30 degrees measured from
the vertical, or
 Likely to crack or crumble soil – The walls are sloped to within 1.5 meters (5 ft) of
the bottom of the excavation at an angle of net less than 45 degrees measured
from the vertical, or
 Soft, sandy or loose soil – The walls are sloped from the bottom of the excavation
at an angle of net less than 45 degrees measured from the vertical.
NOTE: Unless a Professional Engineer makes the determination of soil type, the
walls of the excavation MUST be cut back at 45 degrees from the bottom and
not from the 1.5 meter measurement.

Dumping Block If powered mobile equipment may go over a bank, or enter a dump opening while it is
discharging its load, the equipment is to be effectively stopped or controlled by:
 An anchored block,
 A ridge of material acting as a backstop, or
 A designated signaler with a stop signal.

Excavation Any penetration of the ground that exceeds 200 mm (7.5 in).

Excavation Area The area that will be excavated in the field. This is the footprint area of the pad,
trench, footing, etc., but may be larger than the actual final footprint due to form work,
cut backs, or other activities.

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Term Definition
Exposing Buried  Mechanical excavation is not permitted within 600 mm (2 ft) of a buried item (pipe,
Facilities cable, conduit, etc.), until the buried item has been exposed to sight by Hydro-vac,
hand digging or other non-destructive technique approved by the Job Coordinator.
 The equipment operator must visually see the line before allowing any excavations
within the 600 mm zone.
 All exposed buried facilities are to be protected and supported so that workers are
not injured.
 If the ground that will be disturbed lies within a pipeline right-of-way, the operator
or licensee of the pipeline must be contacted to obtain permission to disturb the
ground. If this occurs, obtain proximity or crossing agreements prior to excavation
activities.
 If a pipeline is exposed during a work operation, the pipeline operator or licensee
must be notified before backfilling the excavation.

GDA Due Date Date when the GDA Form and red-lined drawings must be returned to the As-Built
Coordinator

Hand Exposing The manual task of removing soil away from underground interferences to prevent
damage that might otherwise occur if mechanical equipment were used.

Hazards or Underground utility lines, piping, fiber optics, etc., that may be uncovered during an
Interferences excavation.

Hydro-vac Hydro-excavation: A process that uses a powerful vacuum and high pressure water to
cut precise holes, trenches and tunnels in the soil. Because compressed water is used
to loosen the earth, the risk of damaging underground utilities is less and contractors
can safely find and expose them. An alternative to hand exposing.

Installation and  Workers who install shoring, stringers or bracing shall use a ladder and work down
removal of from the top of the trench, installing each brace in descending order.
shoring, stringers  Workers who remove shoring, stringers or bracing shall use a ladder and work
or bracing upward from the bottom of the trench, removing each brace in ascending order.
 If the quality of the ground in which a trench has been dug has deteriorated during
operations to the extent that it is unsafe to use the method of removal described
above, material is to be removed using a method that does not require the worker
to be in the trench.

Loose Materials Soil or other debris that may roll or slide into an excavation.
 Loose materials are to be scaled and trimmed from the sides of an excavation if
workers may on or near the sides.
NOTE: Where there is a hazard from rolling or sliding material from slopes adjacent to
excavations, screens, netting or other protective devices shall be installed.

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Term Definition
Methods of Before a worker begins working in an excavation that is more than 1.5 meters (5 ft),
Protection and is working closer to the wall or bank than the depth of the excavation, one or both
of the following must be performed to ensure that the worker is protected from cave-
ins or sliding/rolling materials:
 Cutting back the walls of the excavation to reduce the height of the remaining
vertical walls, if any, to no more than 1.5 meters (5 ft) for “hard and compact soil”
and “likely to crack or crumble soil”,
 Installing temporary protective structures.
NOTE: Where there is a hazard from rolling or sliding material from slopes adjacent to
excavations, screens, netting or other protective devices shall be installed.

Power Pole Work that disturbs the ground in the vicinity of an overhead power line. When
Support excavation work will occur near power poles, work must be performed in a manner
that does not reduce the original support provided for power line poles. EDD must be
notified and must approve the steps taken to preserve the original support provided for
the power line poles.

Safe Entry and  If a worker is required to enter a trench that is more than 1.5 meters deep (5 ft), a
Exit safe point of entering and leaving is to be located not more than 8 meters (26 ft)
from the worker.
 If a worker is in a trench that is more than 1.5 meters deep (5 ft), the trench is to
be supported or sloped so that the worker can reach the safe point in order to
enter or leave safely.
NOTE: If ladders are used as the method of ingress/egress, ladders should extend at
least 1 meter (3'- 3") above grade.

Scan Area The area that will be scanned in the field for underground interferences or hazards.
This is typically larger than the Excavation Area to be conservative and account for
underground hazards that may be near the Excavation Area.

Soil Stabilization Soil in an excavation may be stabilized using an artificial soil stabilization technique,
including freezing soil by artificial means or grouting if the process used is:
 Designed by a professional engineer to control soil conditions, and
 Performed in accordance with the professional engineer’s specifications.
NOTE: Natural freezing of the soil is not to be used as an alternative or partial
alternative to a temporary protective structure in an excavation or trench.

Spoil Piles Soil removed from the excavation and placed into a pile. The spoil pile needs to be
piled so that:
 The leading edge of the pile is at least 1 meter (3'-3") away from the edge of the
excavation,
 The slope of a spoil pile adjacent to the excavation is at an angle of not more than
45 degrees from the horizontal, and
 Loose materials are scaled and trimmed from the spoil pile.

Surcharge Load A load that is imposed on the surface of the soil close enough to the excavation to
cause lateral pressure to act on the wall of the excavation in addition to the basic earth
pressure.

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Temporary Shoring, stringers and bracing that prevent the walls of an excavation from caving in or
Protective otherwise moving into the excavation. If temporary protective structures are needed,
Structures the following shall be performed:
(Excavations)  All temporary protective structures are to be designed, constructed and installed in
accordance with the specifications of a professional engineer.
 If vehicular traffic, working machinery or a heavy object is placed within a distance
equal to the depth of the excavation (measured from the near edge of the bottom
of the trench to the traffic, machinery or heavy object), or if the excavation is
adjacent to or abutting buildings or other structures, the specifications from a
professional engineer must evaluate the additional surcharge loading and
determine if additional protection is required.
 The specifications from a professional engineer must include the size and
specifications of the structure, including the type and grade of materials used in its
construction, and the loads for which the structure is designed.
 Before beginning an excavation, a foundation that may be affected by the
excavation is to be supported by a temporary protective structure designed,
constructed and installed in accordance with the specifications of a professional
engineer.
 The specifications from a professional engineer are to be provided to the Job
Coordinator and are to be uploaded into the work package, and/or other
permanent file location.
Temporary Shoring, stringers and bracing that prevent the walls of a trench from caving in or
Protective otherwise moving into the trench. If temporary protective structures are needed, the
Structure following shall be performed:
Alternatives  All temporary protective structures are to be designed, constructed and installed in
(Trenches) accordance with the specifications of a professional engineer.
 Temporary protective structures should be fabricated out of lumber as specified in
the OH&S Code, Part 32. Alternatively, screw jacks, hydraulic equipment or other
apparatus may be used as shoring, stringers or bracing if they are at least
equivalent in strength and reliability to shoring, stringers or bracing described in
Schedule 9 of the OH&S Code.
 If vehicular traffic, working machinery or a heavy object is placed within a distance
equal to the depth of the trench (measured from the near edge of the bottom of the
trench to the traffic, machinery or heavy object), or if the trench is adjacent to or
abutting buildings or other structures, the specifications from a professional
engineer must evaluate the additional surcharge loading and determine if
additional protection is required.
 The specifications from a professional engineer must include the size and
specifications of the structure, including the type and grade of materials used in its
construction, and the loads for which the structure is designed.
 The specifications from a professional engineer are to be provided to the Job
Coordinator and are to be uploaded into the work package, and/or other
permanent file location.

Trench An elongated dug out area of ground whose depth exceeds its width at the bottom.

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Trench Cage An approved steel support structure designed to resist the pressure from the walls of a
trench and capable of being moved as a unit.

Water Hazard Excavations that a worker may be required to enter shall be kept free of an
accumulation of water that may pose a hazard to the worker.

Worker Access  Workers must be provided with a safe means of entering and exiting an
excavation or trench (Refer to Safe Entry and Exit).
 Workers must not enter an excavation or trench that does not comply with this
procedure.

IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT AT ANY TIME DURING THIS PROCEDURE, STOP AND ASK
YOUR SUPERVISOR.

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Procedure 1. GDA Form Initiation

Responsibility Step Action

Job 1.1 Determine need to perform excavation at the Oil Sands Facility.
Coordinator NOTE: A Ground Disturbance Authorization (GDA) Form is required for all
excavation activities where:
 The ground is disturbed to a depth equal to, or greater than 200 mm (7 ½”);
 The work activity is within 30 meters (98.5 ft) of a pipeline;
 The work activity is within 10 meters (33 ft) of an underground electrical utility;
 The work is within Transmission and Distribution Services 6 meter (19 ft 8 in)
right of way of buried high voltage facilities; or
 The work activity is near any other buried facility that may be affected by the
ground disturbance.
Job 1.2 Perform walkdown of area to be excavated and identify items in the area that may
Coordinator have underground components.
NOTE 1: Items to look for during a walkdown include, but are not limited to:
buildings, fire hydrants, electrical boxes, trailers; or other items that stick
out of, or rest on, the ground. For example:
 If a conduit is running down a power pole – where might it go underground?
 If a valve box is identified – what/where is potential underground hazard?
NOTE 2: Items identified during the walkdown will be noted in Part B of the GDA
Form. Refer to Step 1.5.
Job 1.3 Contact the As-Built Coordinator to obtain a GDA Form number.
Coordinator NOTE: It is recommended that a sequential numeric format similar to 0000X
(starting at 00001) should be used.
As-Built 1.4 • Provide the Job Coordinator with the next sequential number from the GDA Log.
Coordinator Refer to Appendix 1 for a copy of the GDA Log.
• Search for any open GDA Forms. These might be from the same requestor, or
other requestors.
NOTE: At this stage, following should be recorded in the GDA Log:
 The GDA Form number,
 Job Coordinator name and phone number, and
 Job Coordinator’s Supervisor name.
Job 1.5 Complete Parts A & B on the GDA Form. Refer to Appendix 2 for a copy of the
Coordinator GDA Form.
Job 1.6 Take the GDA Form to the As-Built Coordinator for review.
Coordinator

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2. GDA Form (Tracking and Reviews)

Responsibility Step Action

As-Built 2.1 Record on the GDA Log the ESD and EFD.
Coordinator NOTE: Based on the EFD, add 30 days and enter the GDA Due Date on the GDA
Log. This information will be used to determine if an ILP needs to be
generated as specified in Paragraph 6.5.
As-Built 2.2 Review the proposed excavation location on the GDA Form. Attach a drawing of the
Coordinator area to the GDA Form showing known underground components.
 Record in Part D of the GDA Form the drawing number and title. The number
and title of the drawing is to be provided in Part D of the GDA Form even if the
drawing shows nothing in the area.
 Provide dimensions to locate scan and excavation area from point of reference
on Composite Drawing. Refer to Appendix 7 for an example of reference
dimensions.
NOTE: The drawing size should be 11x17 minimum. This drawing needs to be
large enough to allow future reviewers, and the scanner, sufficient room to
mark up the drawing. If necessary, use multiple pages. This will be the
“Composite Drawing” and is intended to show all underground components
in the excavation area.
As-Built 2.3 Review available engineered drawings within the proposed excavation area. Based
Coordinator on a review of existing drawings, determine if hazards or interferences exist in the
area of the proposed excavation.
As-Built 2.4 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Coordinator
If Hazards / then …
Interferences …
Exist • Check “Yes” in Part C of the GDA Form if hazards or
interferences exist in the area of the proposed excavation.
• Record in Part D of the GDA Form the drawing number(s) /
title(s) of the drawing(s) that show(s) the hazards /
interferences.
NOTE: Provide drawings that identify underground
installations for the area, and any other relevant
information on underground installations, to the Job
Coordinator.
• Go to Step 2.5.
Do Not Exist • Check “No” in Part C of the GDA Form if hazards or
interferences do not exist in the area of the proposed
excavation.
• Go to Step 2.5.

As-Built 2.5 Print Name, Sign and Date in Part E of the GDA Form indicating that the information
Coordinator noted in Parts C and D of the GDA Form correct. Also enter a phone number in the
space provided in case additional information is needed at a later date.
As-Built 2.6 Keep a copy of the GDA Form, and return original GDA Form to the Job Coordinator.
Coordinator

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Responsibility Step Action
Job 2.7 If Engineered drawings supplied by the As-Built Coordinator show underground
Coordinator items that are not recorded on the Composite Drawing, red-line the Composite
Drawing to show the underground items.
Job 2.8 Take the GDA Form to each of the department representatives listed in Part C of the
Coordinator GDA Form.
NOTE: Exceptions to this requirement are as follows:
 If an E&I Department supports the area where an excavation will be performed,
the Reliability Engineering box can be checked “N/R”. If this occurs, the Job
Coordinator should enter “N/A” in the Reliability Engineering (Print Name,
Signature / Date, and Phone No.) boxes in Part E of the GDA Form.
 If an E&I Department does not support the area where an excavation will be
performed, the Area E&I Engineering box can be checked “N/R”. When this
occurs, the Job Coordinator should enter “N/A” in the Area E&I Engineering
(Print Name, Signature / Date, and Phone No.) boxes in Part E of the GDA
Form.
Representatives 2.9 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
listed in Part C of
the GDA Form If Hazards / then …
Interferences …
Exist • Check “Yes” in Part C of the GDA Form. Enter additional
comments, including excavation recommendations, in Part I
on the GDA Form.
• Record in Part D of the GDA Form the drawing number(s) /
title(s) of the drawing(s) that show the hazards /
interferences.
NOTE: Mark up the Composite Drawing to show the location
of the underground hazards.
• Go to Step 2.10.
Do Not Exist • Check “No” in Part C of the GDA Form.
• Go to Step 2.10.

Representatives 2.10 Print Name, Sign and Date in Part E of the GDA Form indicating that the information
listed in Part C of noted in Parts C and D of the GDA Form is correct. Also enter a phone number in
the GDA Form the space provided in case additional information is needed at a later date.
Representatives 2.11 Return GDA Form to Job Coordinator.
listed in Part C of
the GDA Form
Job 2.12 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Coordinator
If all reviews … then …
Are completed in Parts C & E of • Go to Step 3.1.
the GDA Form
Are not completed in Parts C & • Return to Step 2.8 and complete all of the
E of the GDA Form reviews listed in Parts C & E of the GDA
Form.

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3. Scanning Activities

Responsibility Step Action

Job 3.1 Review the GDA Form and Composite Drawing, with the Ground Disturbance
Coordinator Supervisor, and the individuals that will scan the area (i.e., Scanners).
 During this meeting, the following should be determined and agreed upon as a
minimum:
 That both types of scanning equipment shown in Appendices 3 and 4 shall
be used for the scanning activity. If different scanning equipment is used
(i.e., other than shown in Appendices 3 and 4), acceptability of the
different equipment will be documented via an MOC in accordance with
NFP0014A.
 The type of Safe Work Permit that will be required for the scanning activity
(cold or hot permit).
 How underground interferences will be marked in the field after being
located.
NOTE: A hot work permit is required for the RD7000 cable and pipe locator if the
scan is being performed in areas where hazardous gases may be present.
 The meeting should also ensure that:
 Everyone is aware of items that are shown on the Composite Drawing,
 Scanners know what information to provide when known items are located,
and
 Scanners know what to do if items are found that are not shown on the
Composite Drawing.
Job 3.2 Give the GDA Form and Composite Drawing to the individuals that will be performing
Coordinator the scanning, and ensure all parties understand that the Ground Disturbance
Supervisor will oversee the scanning activities.
NOTE 1: It is recommended that the Job Coordinator keep the original copies of
the GDA Form and Composite Drawing in case the package provided to
the Scanners is lost in the field. Have the Scanners sign the original GDA
Form, prior to leaving site, when scanning is completed.
NOTE 2: If the original copies have to be sent to the field, the Job Coordinator shall
keep a copy of all documents sent to the field, in case the work package
is lost. If this method is used, make sure the Scanners return the signed
original GDA Form and Composite Drawing to the Ground Disturbance
Supervisor prior to leaving site.
Ground 3.3 Complete a Safe Work Permit for scanning activities in accordance with LMS0038A.
Disturbance NOTE: A hot work permit is required for the RD7000 cable and pipe locator if the
Supervisor scan is being performed in areas where hazardous gases may be present.
Scanners 3.4 Obtain the safe work permit from the permit office for the area in which the scan is to
be performed.
Scanners 3.5 Perform an FLRA in accordance with Procedure NFP0004A
.
Scanners 3.6 Scan the area(s) noted on the GDA Form and Composite Drawing.
 Mark corners of scan area in the field using stakes, flags, paint, or other agreed
upon marking system as specified by the Job Coordinator.

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Responsibility Step Action
Scanners 3.7 Locate and mark all underground interferences in the field.
 Underground interferences are to be marked in the field using stakes, flags,
paint, or other agreed upon marking system as specified by the Job
Coordinator.
Scanners 3.8 Correlate the identified underground interferences in the field, to those shown on the
Composite Drawing.
 Underground interferences are to be shown on the Composite Drawing. If the
location of an identified item is different than shown on the Composite Drawing,
red-line the Composite Drawing to reflect the as-installed location in the field.
 If the depth of an interference can be determined in the field, red-line this
information on the Composite Drawing. If the depth of an interference can not
be determined, record on the Composite Drawing that “Depth is Unknown”.
Scanners 3.9 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Were all interferences shown on the then …
Composite Drawing, located in the
field …
Yes • Go to Step 3.10.
No • Go to Step 3.18.

Scanners 3.10 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Were any interferences located in then …
the field, that were not shown on
the Composite Drawing …
Yes • Go to Step 3.12.
No • Go to Step 3.11.

Scanners 3.11 Complete Part F of the GDA Form. The signed GDA Form and red-lined Composite
Drawing are to be given to the Ground Disturbance Supervisor prior to leaving site.
Refer to Appendix 2 for a copy of the GDA Form.
 Send an Auto-CAD drawing of the scanned area to the Job Coordinator within
one (1) week of the date that Part F of the GDA Form is signed.
 Go to Step 3.16.
Scanners 3.12 Red-line the Composite Drawing indicating the routing of the additional item. Note
this item on the Composite Drawing by stating “Additional Line”.
NOTE: Make sure the “Additional Line” is marked on the ground in the field using
stakes, flags, paint, or other agreed upon marking system as specified by
the Job Coordinator.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued
Responsibility Step Action
Scanners 3.13 Contact the Ground Disturbance Supervisor and identify the additional items that
were located.
Ground 3.14 Have the Scanners complete Part F of the GDA Form as specified in Step 3.11.
Disturbance
Supervisor
Ground 3.15 Contact the Job Coordinator and identify the location of the additional items on the
Disturbance Composite Drawing and in the field.
Supervisor
Ground 3.16 Provide the GDA Form and the Composite Drawing to the Job Coordinator, and work
Disturbance with him on the best methodology for excavating the area safely.
Supervisor
Ground 3.17  Work with the Job Coordinator on the best methodology for excavating the area
Disturbance to safely daylight the underground interferences.
Supervisor NOTE: During discussions, consider items that may not have been found
during scanning activities. Also consider comments that may have
been entered by reviewers of the GDA Form in Part I of the GDA
Form.
 Go to Step 4.1.
Scanners 3.18 Red-line the Composite Drawing indicating which items could not be located by
stating “Line Not Found”.
NOTE: It is possible that additional scanning will be requested. As such, do not
sign-off Part F on the GDA Form until advised to do so by the Job
Coordinator.
Scanners 3.19 Contact the Ground Disturbance Supervisor and identify the items that could not be
located.
Ground 3.20 Contact the Job Coordinator and identify which items shown on the Composite
Disturbance Drawing could not be located.
Supervisor
Job 3.21 Determine if additional scans are to be performed to try to locate the underground
Coordinator interferences, or if the interferences will be located during excavation activities.
If hazard is to be located … then …
Using additional scans  Repeat scanning process, and if
necessary, consider using different
equipment to help locate underground
interferences.
 Go to Step 3.6.
During excavation activities  Have the Scanners complete Part F of
the GDA Form as specified in Step 3.11.
 Go to Step 3.22.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued
Responsibility Step Action
Job 3.22  Work with the Ground Disturbance Supervisor on the best methodology for
Coordinator excavating the area to safely daylight the underground interferences.
NOTE: During discussions, consider items that may not have been found
during scanning activities. Also consider comments that may have
been entered by reviewers of the GDA Form in Part I of the GDA Form.
 Go to Step 4.1.

4. GDA Form (Excavation Planning)

Responsibility Step Action

Job 4.1  Record in Part G of the GDA Form the method to safely locate underground
Coordinator interferences during excavation activities. Methods include, but are not limited
to: Hydro-vac, hand digging, etc.
 Use Appendix 5 for Hydro-vac requirements in areas where:
 Underground items have not been found by scanning, or
 Concern exists that mechanical excavation will be too close to
underground interferences, or
 Depth of an underground interference is not known, or
 Positive location is needed prior to mechanical excavation, or
 In the judgment of the Job Coordinator, Hydro-vac should be performed.
Job 4.2 Generate a Scope of Work for the excavation activities. The scope of work needs to
Coordinator include the following:
 Areas where Hydro-vac, and/or hand digging is to be performed prior to or
during excavation activities;
 A requirement for Surveyors to survey day lighted items of any excavation that
has encountered or installed underground facilities;
 A requirement for Surveyors to generate a Survey Drawing (i.e., red-line the
Composite Drawing, or provide a separate as-built survey drawing), showing
the x, y, z coordinates of day lighted underground facilities;
 A requirement for the Surveyors to provide the Survey Drawing to the Job
Coordinator;
 A hold point requiring the Job Coordinator to verify with the Surveyor the
acceptance of the Survey Drawing.
NOTE: The above list is not all inclusive. The Job Coordinator needs to review
every excavation activity and assure that the SOW provides requirements to
safely execute and document the work performed.
Job 4.3 Sign Part G of the GDA Form when it is acceptable to start excavation activities.
Coordinator Refer to Appendix 2 for a copy of the GDA Form.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

5. GDA Form (Excavation Activities)

Responsibility Step Action

Job 5.1 Give the GDA Form, Composite Drawing, any proximity or crossing agreement (if
Coordinator applicable), and SOW to the Ground Disturbance Supervisor. Review the following
with the Ground Disturbance Supervisor:
 SOW,
 Conditions identified in a proximity or crossing agreement, and
 Any other excavation requirements.
NOTE 1: It is recommended that the Job Coordinator keep the original copies of
the GDA Form, Composite Drawing, and SOW so the originals are not
lost in the field.
NOTE 2: If the original copies have to be sent to the field, the Job Coordinator shall
keep a copy of all documents sent to the field, in case the work package
is lost.
Ground 5.2 Complete a Safe Work Permit for excavation activities in accordance with
Disturbance LMS0038A.
Supervisor
Ground 5.3 Review the GDA Form, Composite Drawing, Excavation and Trenching Hazard
Disturbance Identification Checklist, and SOW with the Excavators to ensure that all parties know
Supervisor the excavation requirements, and their roles, to safely perform the excavation.
 Refer to Appendix 6 for the Excavation and Trenching Hazard Identification
Checklist.
NOTE: While not all of the checklist items will be able to be addressed prior to
excavation activities, the checklist is a good tool to use during a pre-
excavation brief. It will help identify pre-excavation and in-process
excavation requirements, so personnel perform the excavation safely.
 If during the excavation process, there is a change in scope, a new GDA must
be obtained before excavating outside of the Scan Area.
 Copies of the GDA Form, Composite Drawing, crossing and proximity
agreement (if applicable), and SOW are to be available at the work site for
reference at all times while work is in progress.
 The Ground Disturbance Supervisor will be responsible to assure that all
requirements on the GDA Form, Excavation and Trenching Hazard
Identification Checklist, and SOW are met.
Excavators 5.4 Obtain the safe work permit from the permit office for the area in which the
excavation is to be performed.
Excavators 5.5 Perform an FLRA in accordance with Procedure NFP0004A.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued

Responsibility Step Action

Excavators 5.6 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Is Hydro-vac then …
required …
Yes  Hydro-vac the excavation area in accordance with the
SOW, instruction from the Ground Disturbance
Supervisor, and guidelines in Appendix 5.
NOTE: The Hydro-vac exploration will be to a depth 0.5 m
(1’-8”) greater than the proposed excavation depth.
 Go to Step 5.7.
No  Excavate the area(s) noted on the GDA Form and
Composite Drawing, in accordance with the instructions
in the SOW.
NOTE: During the excavation process, if an unknown
obstruction is damaged, all excavation work will
cease and the Ground Disturbance Supervisor will
be contacted immediately.

Ground 5.7  Oversee excavation activities and assure that all requirements of the GDA
Disturbance Form, Excavation and Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist, and SOW are
Supervisor met.
 Upon completion of the Excavation and Trenching Hazard Identification
Checklist, provide the checklist to the Job Coordinator for uploading into the
work package, and/or other permanent file location as determined by the Job
Coordinator.
Excavators 5.8 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Were any obstructions found then …
during excavation activities …
Yes • Go to Step 5.9.
No  Contact Ground Disturbance
Supervisor to advise that excavation is
complete.
 Give GDA Form, Composite Drawing,
and SOW to the Ground Disturbance
Supervisor.
 Sign-off Safe Work Permit for
excavation activities in accordance with
LMS0038A.
 Go to Step 5.13.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued

Responsibility Step Action

Excavators 5.9 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Were any obstructions damaged then …
in the field …
Yes  Go to Step 5.14.
No  Contact Ground Disturbance
Supervisor to advise that excavation is
complete.
 Give GDA Form, Composite Drawing,
and SOW to Ground Disturbance
Supervisor.
 Sign-off Safe Work Permit for
excavation activities in accordance with
LMS0038A.

Ground 5.10 After underground hazards shown on the Composite Drawing are uncovered, contact
Disturbance Surveyors record the exact location of underground items.
Supervisor
Surveyors 5.11  Survey day lighted items that have been encountered during excavation
activities.
 Generate a Survey Drawing (i.e., red-line the Composite Drawing, or provide a
separate as-built survey drawing), showing the x, y, z coordinates of day lighted
underground facilities
Surveyors 5.12 Provide the Survey Drawing to the Ground Disturbance Supervisor.
Ground 5.13  Provide GDA Form, Composite Drawing, Survey Drawing (if applicable),
Disturbance Excavation and Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist, and SOW to the Job
Supervisor Coordinator.
 Go to Step 6.1.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued

Responsibility Step Action

Excavators 5.14 Use the information in the table below to determine your next action:
Is damaged then …
obstruction electrically
energized or releasing
gas, fluid, etc. …
Yes  Stop all excavation work, put equipment and area
in a safe condition, and contact the Emergency
Contact person listed on the SWP.
NOTE: If the Emergency Contact person is not
available, call Area Operations and/or the
Emergency Services Department
immediately.
 While waiting for emergency responders, or Area
Operations personnel, keep all personnel a safe
distance away from the energy source.
 Go to Step 5.18.
No  Stop all excavation work, put equipment and area
in a safe condition, and contact the Ground
Disturbance Supervisor.
 Go to Step 5.15.

Ground 5.15 Contact Area Operations and provide information on the item found.
Disturbance
Supervisor
Ground 5.16 Contact the Job Coordinator and provide information on the item found.
Disturbance NOTE: Typical information would be:
Supervisor
 Type of item found: cable, conduit, wire, pipe, etc.;
 Description of item found: Cable with black insulated jacket, PVC, steel or
galvanized pipe, etc.;
 Information regarding any damage was done to the interference: Cut
insulating jacket on cable, dented steel pipe, etc.
Job 5.17  Go to the job location and examine the area. Advise Suncor Management of
Coordinator the incident and the current status.
 Go to Step 5.22.
Excavators 5.18 Contact the Ground Disturbance Supervisor and provide information on the
damaged item.

Continued on next page

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued

Responsibility Step Action

Ground 5.19 Contact the Job Coordinator and provide information on the damaged item. If
Disturbance requested, provide assistance to emergency responders.
Supervisor NOTE: Typical information would be:
 Type of item found: cable, conduit, wire, pipe, etc.;
 Type of energy release;
 Time of incident (i.e., when item was damaged);
 Current status of work site (i.e., Emergency responders on the scene,
expected time that energy source will be isolated, etc.);
 Whether or not Job Coordinator is needed at the job location.
Job 5.20 Advise Suncor Management of the incident and the current status. Report to the job
Coordinator location if requested by the Ground Disturbance Supervisor.
Job 5.21  After the area has been released by Area Operations and/or the Emergency
Coordinator Services Department, go to the job location and examine the area.
 Work with the Ground Disturbance Supervisor to determine what was damaged
and the sequence of events that led up to the item being damaged. Take
statements from the Excavators.
NOTE 1: Depending on the item that was damaged, contact one or more of the
following to identify and trace the damaged component:
 The appropriate Engineering personnel to help identify the
obstruction;
 In the case of cable, contact the applicable B/U E&I Maintenance
personnel to assist with cable identification and tracing;
 In the case of production piping, contact the applicable B/U
Maintenance personnel to assist with pipe identification and tracing.
 In the case of transmission piping, contact SECPLP to assist with
pipe identification and tracing;
In the case of cable, conduit or pipe, the starting and end points must be
traced.
NOTE 2: Depending on the item that was damaged, contact one or more of the
following to authorize further work:
 In the case of transmission cable, T&D , PCPS and EDD must be
contacted to authorize further work;
 In the case of production piping, the applicable B/U Reliability
Engineers (Mechanical) must be contacted to authorize further
work;
 In the case of transmission piping, SECPLP must be contacted to
authorize further work.
Job 5.22  Generate an ILP in accordance with LMP0058A.
Coordinator  Record the ILP number in the comments section of the GDA Form.
NOTE: The As-Built Coordinator will use this information to determine the
retention time of the GDA Form and Attachments.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Continued
Responsibility Step Action
Job 5.23  Do not resume excavation activities at the job site until such time as preventive
Coordinator actions have been implemented to prevent recurrence.
 Make sure that one of the corrective actions in the ILP is for the Surveyors to
as-build the location of the line that was damaged from its starting to end point;
and that this information is provided to the As-Built Coordinator.
 Go to Step 5.1 to resume excavation activities.
NOTE: Use instructions in Step 4.2 if the SOW needs to be revised.

6. GDA Form (Closure)

Responsibility Step Action

Job 6.1 Scan the GDA Form, Composite Drawing, Excavation and Trenching Hazard
Coordinator Identification Checklist, and SOW. Upload the documents into the work package,
and/or other permanent file location.
Job 6.2 Provide the GDA Form and Composite Drawing to the As-Built Coordinator so the
Coordinator As-Built drawings can be updated. This is to be performed even if no changes were
made to the Composite Drawing.
NOTE: Failure to transmit the GDA Form and Composite Drawing to the As-Built
Coordinator within 30 days of the EFD as recorded in the GDA Log will
result in an ILP being generated. If, due to unforeseen circumstances, the
EFD changes such that it will be later than shown on the GDA Form,
contact the As-Built Coordinator to modify the GDA Log.
As-Built 6.3 Upon receipt of the GDA Form and Composite Drawing, update the As-Built
Coordinator drawings in Auto-CAD to reflect the latest field configuration.
NOTE: Drawings are to be updated in Auto-CAD within 2 weeks of receiving the
GDA Form and Composite Drawing.
As-Built 6.4  Complete Part H on the GDA Form after the drawing update is complete.
Coordinator Retain the GDA Form and Composite Drawing in an easily retrievable location
for a minimum of 1 year unless noted otherwise below:
 If an incident occurred during excavation activities, the GDA Form and
Composite Drawing are to be retained for a minimum of 2 years.
 The GDA Form and Composite Drawing are to be filed for audit purposes.
As-Built 6.5 Periodically review the GDA Log. If the GDA Form and Composite Drawing have not
Coordinator been received within 30 days of the EFD, and no correspondence has been received
from the Job Coordinator, generate an ILP to document the violation of this
procedure. The ILP is to be assigned to the Job Coordinator’s Supervisor.

End of Procedure

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

General The following individuals and groups have the following defined responsibilities:
Responsibilities

Manager, Facilities • Ensures this document is reviewed according to the required

Construction revision cycle.
• Ensures the document is updated to accommodate engineering
changes within the plant.
• Ensures the document is updated to mitigate risks found as the
result of an incident.

Director, Facilities • Ensures the proper use of this procedure.

• Provides resolution of any interpretation issues associated with
this procedure.

Approved by:

Bill Bruce,
Director of Facilities, Operations &
Maintenance

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

APPENDICIES

*** NOTE: All Appendices can be found in LiveLink using the link listed below:
http://ecm/ecmlivelinkprd/llisapi.dll?func=ll&objid=129254670&objaction=browse

Appendix Description

1 GDA Log (***)

2 GDA Form (***)

3 RD1000 Manual (***)

4 RD7000 Manual (***)

5 Hydro-Vac Requirements (***)

6 Excavation & Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist (***)

7 Example of Scan Location on Composite Drawing (***)

8 Procedure Flow Diagram (***)

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Procedure Use Log

Date/Shift Position Name (Printed) Name (Signature) Initials

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 1 – GDA Log

GROUND DISTURBANCE AUTHORIZATION LOG

Page of

GDA ILP Number

GDA Form Number Job Coordinator Name Phone No. Supervisor Name ESD EFD
Due Date (if required)

ESD = Expected Start Date

EFD = Expected Finish Date

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 2 – GDA Form

GROUND DISTURBANCE AUTHORIZATION
Page 1 of ____
Form #:

PART A: WORK DETAILS

Expected Start Date: Project No.:
Expected Finish Date: Business Area:
Proposed Dimensions: Plant:
Proposed Method of Excavation:

Job Coordinator: Ground Disturbance Supv.:

PART B: PURPOSE / LOCATION / COORDINATES / DESCRIPTION (use additional sheets if necessary)

Purpose of Excavation:

Location / Survey Coordinates:

Additional Description / Items in the area:

PART C: HAZARDS / INTERFERENCES EXIST?

As-Built Coordinator: No Yes (If "yes", note drawing number in Part D, and show location on
SECPLP: No Yes as-built drawing.
T&D: No Yes (Ref. TDS0012)
IT Networks: No Yes If E&I supports a given area (e.g., Upgrading),
Area E&I Engineering: No Yes N/R they will respond in this section. If E&I does not
Reliability Engineering: No Yes N/R support a given area, Reliability will respond in
Area Operations: No Yes in this section.
Other: No Yes N/A

PART D: APPLICABLE DRAWINGS (Include Drawing Number and Title)

PART E: AUTHORIZATIONS TO SCAN AREA

This form is not valid until all parties noted above have signed the GDA Form. By providing authorization, the undersigned
verifies to the best of their knowledge that all applicable underground hazards have been identified, and approximate locations
have been noted on the attached as-built drawing.
Department Print Name Signature / Date Phone No.
As-Built Coordinator:
T&D:
SECPLP:
IT Networks:
Area E&I Engineering:
Reliability Engineering:
Area Operations:
Other:

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 2 – GDA Form

(continued)

GROUND DISTURBANCE AUTHORIZATION

Page 2 of ____
Form #:

PART F: SCANNING RESULTS (use additional sheets if necessary) Company:

Equipment Used: Both RD1000 and RD7000 are to be used as a minimum for all scans
Other:
The following individual(s) performed a scan of the area(s) requested on this GDA Form. The results of the scan have been
discussed with the Ground Disturbance Supervisor, marked in the field (e.g., flagging, paint, etc.), and noted on the as-built
drawing attached to this GDA Form. An Auto-Cad drawing of the scanned area will be sent to the Job Coordinator within
one (1) week of the date noted below.
Print Name Signature Date Phone No.

PART G: GROUND DISTURBANCE REQUIREMENTS (use additional sheets if necessary)

As the Job Coordinator, I have ensured that a qualified Ground Disturbance Supervisor is assigned to this work scope. All
applicable hazard controls have been incorporated into safe work execution plans. The above ground disturbance requirements
are to be followed as part of the excavation activities. Within 30 days after completion of the excavation work, I will ensure
red-lined as-built drawings, and this GDA Form, are returned to the As-Built Coordinator.
Print Name Signature Date Phone No.

PART H: CLOSURE
Drawing No Drawing Title

use additional sheets if

necessary

As the As-Built Coordinator, I have ensured that this GDA Form and all associated red-lined as-built drawings, have been filed
for future reference and audit purposes. The information on the red-lined drawings has been incorporated into the Auto-Cad
drawings listed above.
Print Name Signature Date

PART I: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / COMMENTS

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 3 – RD1000 Manual

Refer to LiveLink for copy of complete manual. Link to manual

is shown on Appendices Table in Procedure NFP0014A

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 4 – RD7000 Manual

Refer to LiveLink for copy of complete manual. Link to manual

is shown on Appendices Table in Procedure NFP0014A

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 5 – Hydro Vac Requirements

1. Purpose:

Hydro-vacs are performed to help contractors safely find and expose underground interferences and/or
hazards. This is done to ensure work requiring an excavation is executed in the most safe and efficient
manner possible. Hydro-vacs shall be performed in the following situations:

1.1 When underground items have not been found by scanning, or

1.2 Concern exists that mechanical excavation will be too close to underground interferences, or
1.3 The depth of an underground interference is not known, or
1.4 Positive location is needed prior to mechanical excavation, or
1.5 In the judgment of the Job Coordinator, Hydro-vac should be performed.

2. Pre-Requisites:

Prior to excavations being performed, the following must be completed:

2.1 Completion of a Job Hazard Review or HAZOP for the excavation and Hydro-vac work.
2.2 Perform a Construction Kickoff, or pre-Job Brief, meeting for the excavation and Hydro-vac work.
2.3 Suncor Job Coordinator and Ground Disturbance Supervisor are holders of a valid “Certificate of
Completion” for the OSSA Safe Work Permit Course.
2.4 Personnel working in the field must comply with all requirements of LMS0038A – Safe Work Permit
Standard.
2.5 Personnel working in the field must be familiar / comply with the requirements of NFP0011A –
Ground Disturbance Procedure.
2.6 Scope of work including construction & demolition drawings have been reviewed and compared to
available records to determine the existence and location of underground pipelines, utilities or other
underground interferences in the work area and close surroundings. These are shown on the
Composite Drawing.

3. Precautions:

3.1 Prior to any mechanical excavations, the excavation area shall be Hydro-vac'd in accordance with
Section 4 below unless directed otherwise by the Job Coordinator. If this occurs, the basis for the
omitting the Hydro-vac shall be documented in the comments section of the GDA Form, and signed /
dated by the Job Coordinator.

4. Hydro-vac Requirements:

4.1 The area to be mechanically machine excavated will be proved safe by means of hydro-excavation of
the perimeter and/or a series of slot cuts, to satisfactorily prove that no underground interferences
intersect the proposed excavation. The intent is to locate items that are parallel, perpendicular or on
a tangent to the excavation (including cutback). See examples on next page.
4.2 The hydro-excavation exploration will be to a depth 0.5m (1'-8") greater than the proposed
excavation.

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 5 – Hydro Vac Requirements

(continued)
Examples:

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

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 Subject: Ground Disturbance Procedure Number: NFP0011A Rev: 0

Appendix 6 – Excavating & Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist

EXCAVATION & TRENCHING HAZARD IDENTIFICATION CHECKLIST

Page 1 of ____

Use this checklist to prepare for the excavation, and during the excavation process. If the answer to any of the
following questions is "No", stop work and rectify the hazard. If any of the following questions are answered "N/A",
a basis for the answer must be provided in the comments section of this form. The Job Coordinator is to sign and
date all bases comments signifying approval of the bases.

A: PEOPLE / WORKERS Addressed prior to field work

Yes No N/A Do workers have the skills for the assigned work, and do they have
the proper knowledge of the associated hazards?

Yes No N/A Have all the hazards that were identified on the GDA Form, SOW, and
SWP been communicated to the workers?

Yes No N/A Do all workers understand that copies of the GDA Form, Composite
Drawing, SWP, and SOW are to be available at the work site for
reference at all times while work is in progress?

Yes No N/A Do all workers understand that the Ground Disturbance Supervisor will
be the first point of contact for questions, and/or resolution of problems?

Yes No N/A Have barriers to prevent visitors and workers from falling into the
trench been discussed and agreed upon? Wherever practical, hard
railings / barricades must be used. Flagging to cordon off an area is not
the preferred method of guarding excavations.

B: SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Addressed prior to field work

Yes No N/A Have the GDA Form, SWP, and access / road closure permits
been completed?

Yes No N/A Is there a rescue plan, and is it understood by all of the workers?

Yes No N/A Has a Job Hazard Review or HAZOP for the excavation and Hydro-vac
work been performed?

Yes No N/A Do all workers understand that if the excavation is greater than a depth
of 1.5 meters (5 ft), the area is considered a confined space and
will require a confined space permit in accordance with LMS0037A?
CAUTION: If workers will be bending over in a trench or excavation,
such that their breathing area will be below grade, a confined space
permit and rescue plan will be required even though the depth may be
less than 1.5 meters.

Yes No N/A Have traffic hazards been addressed?

Yes No N/A If work is being performed near existing power line poles, has an
evaluation been performed, or controls put in place, to assure that
the original support provided for power line poles is not degraded?

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 Appendix 6 – Excavating & Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist

EXCAVATION & TRENCHING HAZARD IDENTIFICATION CHECKLIST

Page 2 of ____

C: MATERIALS / EQUIPMENT / TOOLS Addressed prior to field work

Yes No N/A Has the weight of the equipment or materials affecting the trench /
excavation been addressed?

Yes No N/A Has the equipment being maintained properly?

D: SITE EVALUATION
Yes No N/A Is ground scan completed per LMP0062A?

Yes No N/A Do workers have copies of the GDA Form, Composite Drawing, SWP,
and SOW at the work site?

Yes No N/A Have buried facilities been properly exposed?

Yes No N/A Have power poles been supported properly?

Yes No N/A Have exposed buried facilities been properly protected and supported
so that workers will not be injured?

Yes No N/A Are shoring, stringers and bracing being installed properly?

Yes No N/A Have workers been provided with a means of safe entry and exit
to/from the excavation?

Yes No N/A Are personnel working in the trench or excavation such that their
breathing area is above grade?

Yes No N/A Have water hazards been removed from the excavation?

Yes No N/A Is the equipment being used properly?

Yes No N/A Are cutbacks acceptable for the type of soil?

Yes No N/A Is the spoil pile at least 1 meter (3'-3") away from the excavation wall
and adequately sloped?

Yes No N/A Has loose material been cleared from the sides of the trench /
excavation?

Yes No N/A Have screens, netting or other protective devices been installed to
prevent hazards adjacent to the excavation from sliding/rolling into
the excavation/trench?

Yes No N/A Are temporary protective structures installed per the professional
engineering specifications?

Yes No N/A Are there barriers to prevent visitors and workers from falling into the
trench?

Appendix 6 – Excavating & Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist

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 EXCAVATION & TRENCHING HAZARD IDENTIFICATION CHECKLIST

Page 3 of ____

D: SITE EVALUATION (continued)

Yes No N/A Is a dumping block properly installed?

Yes No N/A Is access for powered mobile equipment properly installed?

Yes No N/A Are surcharge loads a sufficient distance away from the excavation,
or evaluated by a professional engineer to be positioned where they
are located in the field?

Yes No N/A If pipelines were exposed during a work operation, has the pipeline
operator been notified before backfilling the excavation?

Yes No N/A Have Surveyors been contacted to survey daylighted facilities prior to
backfilling the excavation?

Yes No N/A Are shoring, stringers and bracing being removed properly?

Yes No N/A Is backfill being performed correctly (including fill type, compaction
requirements, moisture content, etc.)?

Yes No N/A Upon completion of the excavation, has the GDA Form, Composite
Drawing, Survey Drawing (if applicable), Excavation and Trenching
Hazard Identification Checklist, and SOW been given to the Job
Coordinator?

E: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / COMMENTS

Appendix 6 – Excavating & Trenching Hazard Identification Checklist

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 EXCAVATION & TRENCHING HAZARD IDENTIFICATION CHECKLIST

Page 4 of ____

E: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / COMMENTS (continued) Use additional pages if necessary

As the Ground Disturbance Supervisor, I verify that the notations on this form are correct.
Print Name Signature Date Phone No.

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Page 36 of 39
 Appendix 7 – Example of Scan Location on Composite Drawing

Refer to LiveLink for an example of a scan location shown on a Composite Drawing.

Link to example is shown on Appendices Table in Procedure NFP0014A

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 Appendix 8 – Procedure Flow Diagram

Refer to LiveLink for a copy of the Procedure Flow Diagram. Link to manual
is shown on Appendices Table in Procedure NFP0014A

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 Summary of Changes

Location Changes
All Document completely revised

Revision Record

Date
Rev Revision Notes Approver
(yyyy/mm/dd)
0 2011/11/20 Revised Document (Issued per MOC 950184837)
William Bruce,
0 2014/05/01 Re-numbered upon cyclical review from FMGP0043A to NFP0011A Director of Facilities
Operations & Maintenance

Feedback: Comments on this procedure (Is this procedure up to date?):

Please submit
your feedback for
this procedure to
your Supervisor.

Supervisor:
Submit an MOC
for this change
and attach a
marked up copy Suggested Improvements:
of this procedure
to the MOC.

Is an MOC
Yes No Sign: Date:
Required? yyyy/mm/dd
Print:

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Page 39 of 39
The following individuals have approved and signed this document.

UserName: William Bruce (babruce)

Title:
Date: Tuesday, 20 May 2014, 11:20 AM Mountain Time
Meaning: Approver 1 Signed
================================================