Brief Classification of Subsurface Utility Information “AS 5488 / Standard

On 12 June 2013, Standards Australia launched a new Australian Standard Called AS 5488. Prior to AS5488 the existence and location of subsurface utilities were difficult to establish and verify. The new standard is intended to improve public safety, reduce costly property damage and provide more accurate information on the location and type of subsurface utilities than in the past.

Australian legislation sets standards for the safe and effective management of underground utilities. This particular standard calls for the establishment and performance of systems that map, locate and monitor these utilities. The legislation requires that parties involved in any ground excavation work must obtain relevant information about the location of underground utilities and put in place measures to protect them from potential damage. The standard also mandates that all parties involved in underground utilities management must ensure the timely resolution of faults or other emergencies, and that adequate provisions are made for the safe disposal of waste and debris generated during excavation.