1. The Four Chapters (The Document Structure)

The 40-page HSG47 guidance document is divided into four main sections or chapters:

1. Identifying and Managing the Dangers:

   • Focus: Outlines the primary dangers posed by underground services (electricity, gas, water, telecoms) and the nature of the risks.

2. Planning the Work:

   • Focus: Covers the non-site, preparatory stages, including gathering utility drawings, conducting risk assessments, and setting up the overall scope of the work.

3. Detecting, Identifying and Marking Underground Services:

   • Focus: Details the on-site survey work, including the correct use of detection equipment (like CAT and Genny), interpreting the signals, and physically marking the location of services on the ground.

4. Safe Excavation:

   • Focus: Describes the methods and controls necessary for the actual digging, including establishing safe digging practices, using hand tools near services, and procedures for exposing and protecting live utilities.

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5. 2. The Three Basic Elements (The Safe System of Work)

   For training and practical application, the guidance emphasizes a Safe System of Work built upon three mandatory, interconnected elements:

    
6. 1. Planning the work: Obtain service plans, complete a comprehensive risk assessment, and issue a Permit to Dig.  
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8. 2. Locating and Identifying Buried Services: Use approved cable avoidance tools (CAT and Genny) to accurately locate, verify, and clearly mark all services on the ground. 
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10. 3. Safe Excavation Practices: Employ the safest digging methods, such as hand-digging (trial holes), when working within the agreed safety zone of any known or suspected service.