White-lining is a very effective way of communicating an intended dig area.  In many cases, meetings at proposed dig sites are deemed unnecessary when white-lining is employed.  Whether the job is large or small, white-lining eliminates assumptions and digging delays, which saves time and money for all parties involved. 

Please refer to these guidelines when white-lining your next digging project.  This will help insure consistency and avoid confusion on future projects.  

 I.                  Notification

* When calling in the locate request, advise the PUPS operator that white-lining will be in place prior to the due date of the locate request. 

 II.                  Marking Method

* Outline the entire area with white paint.  Use 2” x 12” strips every 10 feet.

* Draw an arrow at the starting point of the job pointing toward the end of the job.  In the middle, draw an arrow pointing both directions.  At the end of the job, place an arrow pointing toward the beginning of the job. (This would be for digging in a straight line.  If curved, the white paint should show the curve with arrows in both directions)

* Use either white flags or stakes with white ribbon if the intended digging area is sandy.  Sandy soil will not support paint during construction.

* If utility poles are being replaced, the old pole should be marked with an “X”, and the intended area for the replacement pole should be marked with a circle.

* When marking water leaks, sign posts, tapping point for water/sewer, etc., also mark with a circle.  

III.                  Restrictions    

* No white paint should be sprayed on pavement that may interfere with traffic or pedestrian movement.