Before you dig

Just as powerlines are a hazard overhead, cables and other assets underground are also a hazard. Using BYDA will help keep you and your team safe. 

BYDA is a free referral service that assists in preventing damage and disruption to essential infrastructure networks. It provides a single point of contact to request information about all the infrastructure networks on your project site without having to research them individually.  

In NSW you are legally required to use a BYDA service referral prior to carrying out any excavation works. 

• To verify and obtain all Before You Dig plans before starting excavation work. Even if there are overhead powerlines, there can be underground cables as well.
• To pre-plan your job by consulting with Endeavour Energy. We provide advice to anyone working near our underground network. Simply complete a Request for Safety Advice.
• To use cable locating technologies, such as pot holing and non-destructive digging techniques, before you start excavation.
• That cable depths can vary greatly. Don’t assume cable depths are consistent as tree roots, water, soil subsidence and human interaction can all cause changes over time.
• That excavation around street lighting, padmount substations (large, usually green boxes) or pillar boxes (small, usually green or cream boxes) must be avoided until guidance has been obtained from the electricity network provider.
• To always report any exposed cables immediately to Endeavour Energy on 131 003.

If you are in doubt and need more information on safe clearance distances or safe digging techniques, contact Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or visit the Before You Dig website.