Permit to Dig (Ground Penetrations > 200mm)
When is a permit required?
A permit to dig (excavate or penetrate) the ground would be required when you are going to dig, excavate or penetrate the ground more than 200mm below its current surface level.
Risks and Hazards
There are many risks and hazards involved with carrying out excavation or penetration of the ground as there are underground services across our campuses.
- Water
- Gas
- Electricity (high and low voltage)
- Earthing cages
- District Heating
- Fibre network cables
- Drainage
- Service ducts
- High Pressure systems
- Collapse of ground around excavations
These can all cause different issues if struck or damaged during works, including gas leaks, flooding, release of pressurised water or gases and total loss of power to buildings across campus.
Injuries to individuals involved can be serious or potentially FATAL in some instances.
IMPORTANT: Due to the risk to buried infrastructure, ground spikes are not to be used at the University of Warwick, for any works, these specifically include setting out for construction works and securing temporary structures, such as inflatables or marquees, but are not limited to these. Alternative means should be used, such as weighted anchors or above ground plumb lines.
What Next?
You will be required to complete a request for a Permit to Dig permit through the Q2 permit system https://q2.estate.warwick.ac.uk/q2 at least 10 days in advance and obtain all the latest stat drawings from estates.bimteam@warwick.ac.uk for all known underground services within the area of works.
The Competent Person will need to complete the PE1 form: Permit to Dig - PE1 form
You will be required to provide details of where on campus you are intending to carry out the dig, excavation or ground penetration and provide the coordinates to identify the exact location of works.
The Competent Person (contractor or DEL) should submit sufficient RAMS and proof of competence for the work they will be carrying out. Both the Permit Requester and the contractor/DEL will be invited to attend the PTD meeting to discuss the application and approve the permit.