An excavator must hand dig within what distance of any locate marks?

When hand digging near locate marks, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance to avoid damaging buried utilities. The correct distance is 18 inches. This standard is in accordance with safety regulations designed to protect both workers and infrastructure.

The rationale behind the 18-inch requirement is to ensure that individuals digging by hand exercise caution and minimize the risk of hitting underground utilities, which could result in hazardous situations. This practice helps create a buffer zone that respects the integrity of the underground installations while allowing for necessary excavations.

Maintaining this specified distance reinforces safety protocols and helps avoid costly damages and potential injuries, reflecting the importance of following established guidelines in utility excavation work.