The tools and documents in this section of the website have been prepared by a group of client, designer, contractor and utility service provider representatives from the sponsoring organisations identified below and are freely available.

The contribution of the HSE is acknowledged, and users are reminded to refer to the HSE publication HSG 47 (Avoiding Underground Services), which these materials seek to complement.

They have been prepared and made available to provide leadership from within the industry to improve the risk management of work around underground services and halt the unnecessary injuries and damage caused by inadvertent damage to underground services, the consequences of which can be devastating.

They do not seek to duplicate but to signpost best practices (where identified) and provide additional guidance in avoiding underground services.

There is a wealth of good practice information available for site works. However, particular attention has been given here to the planning and design elements of work in the vicinity of underground services and improving communication between asset owners, clients, designers, planners and contractors.

Specific guidance and a toolkit have been provided for clients and designers, guidance on best practice has been provided on designer competence, liaison with service owners and providers, and in relation to the proximity of works to underground services, services buried in concrete, and the permit to work process.

The materials seek to follow the established (legal) hierarchy of risk management to Eliminate, Reduce, Inform and Control risks (ERIC), with emphasis on planning, design, diversion and isolation and the behaviours around avoiding underground services.