Ground Disturbance. Code of Practice. April 2010

Transcription

1 Code of Practice April 2010 Last Update: January 2009 Authorized by: SHEAR Steering Committee Current: January 2010 Authorized by: SHEAR Steering Committee

2 Revisions Date Sections Comments/Revisions 1. Jan 08 All Review and update as per integration requirement. 2. Jan 09 All Enhancement to meet operational needs. 3. Jan Included a reference to review Appendix A Ground Disturbance Guideline & Suggested Process to aid reader in application of the COP in a procedural format. 3.0 Included a section to clearly identify that the Penn West Departmental Manager has responsibility to ensure those in his or her department who conduct ground disturbance have been competently trained. 4.2 Defined the difference between Non-Critical Ground Disturbance and Critical Ground Disturbance in two separate sections and Changed the minimum requirement for third party using mechanical excavation equipment from 60 cm to 1.5 metres as per Penn West Crossing Agreement Included a new section called Changes or Conflicts with Crossing Agreements to emphasize the Penn West Site Representatives authority to stop work if changes to the crossing agreement are unresolved or if actions taken by the third party conducting ground disturbance is not to Penn West standards. 5.1 Included that line locators must provide documentation of the functionality of their equipment to the Penn West Representative Included a new section called Locating in High Density Areas or Critical Ground Disturbances to support references made to multiple locates required in Ground Disturbance checklists in the appendices Changed regulated and suggested maximum time periods before locates for facilities become invalid to incorporate guidelines from ENFORM IRP 17, Alberta 1-Call and the NEB Included an additional note to ensure that hydrovac holes are appropriately backfilled and covered after work has been completed as per regulatory requirements and compression expectations of the excavated backfill Placed emphasis on the Ground Disturbance Supervisor being present to supervise a mechanical excavation. 5.4 Included references to backfill inspection forms and added the forms to Appendix E, as well as statements regarding competency, contents and compression of backfill Included a new section called Contact Response & Notifications. This section clearly defines the responsibilities of the Ground Disturbance Supervisor after a facility contact has been made for both regulated Penn West or third party pipelines. 6.1 Included a new section called Quality Control. This section explains that Ground Disturbance Supervisors/foreman of ground disturbance projects will be audited until competency is established to a standard acceptable to Penn West. 7.0 Added Section 7 Special Provisions, which includes special provisions or exemptions to the Ground Disturbance COP for Detailed Site Assessments (DSA Soil Samples) and Installation of Posts Ground Penetrating and Nonmechanical. For both processes a safe work practice for safe execution is included in appendices G and H. Appendix B Made small changes to the Ground Disturbance Checklist / Agreement; the most significant change is a reference to requirements in Saskatchewan regarding calling non-one call companies with underground facilities. April of 41 Code of Practice

3 Date Sections Comments/Revisions Appendix D Added an additional checklist for senior management to approve mechanical excavation within 60 cm of an exposed underground facility. This checklist called 60 cm Mechanical Excavation Critical Ground Disturbance Checklist/Approval is a suggested method for management (i.e., area superintendent level or greater) to approve this type of critical ground disturbance. 4. Apr 10 Various Terminology revision - Ground Disturbance Level II revised to Level Apr 10 Appendix G Clarified procedure for installing posts non-mechanically. April of 41 Code of Practice

4 Table of Contents page 1.0 Introduction Purpose Application Definitions Potential Hazards Responsibilities Penn West Site Representative Proposing a Ground Disturbance Ground Disturbance Supervisor Production Operations Supervisor or Designate Documentation Information Sources Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement Notification Crossing Agreements Safe Work Agreement Practices and Guidelines Locating Underground Facilities Exposure and Mechanical Excavation Trenches and Excavations Backfill Inspections Contact of an Underground Facility Training and Quality Control Quality Control Special Provisions Detailed Site Assessment (Soil Samples) Installation of Posts Non-mechanical References and Regulations Appendix A Ground Disturbance Guideline & Suggested Process Appendix B - Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement Appendix C - CAPP IRP 17 Facility Crossing Agreement Appendix D - 60 cm Mechanical Excavation Critical Ground Disturbance Checklist/Approval Appendix E Asset Integrity & Pipeline Operations & Maintenance Pipeline Forms April of 41 Code of Practice

5 Appendix F Reclamation Detailed Site Assessment (DSA) Safe Work Practice Appendix G Procedure for Installing Posts/Single Point Penetration Ground Disturbance Non Mechanical April of 41 Code of Practice

6 1.0 Introduction 1.1 Purpose This Code of Practice (COP) provides a process to plan and safely accomplish a Ground Disturbance as per applicable government legislation and helps ensure control measures are implemented that will enhance worker and public safety, protection of the environment and prevent damage of essential underground infrastructure when Ground Disturbances are undertaken in the vicinity of underground facilities. This Ground Disturbance COP used in conjunction with the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement, Safe Work System COP and Line Locating COP are the minimum requirements necessary to ensure ground disturbance activities can be performed in the safest practical manner. 1.2 Application This COP applies to any work site where a Ground Disturbance is being conducted such as pipeline right-of-ways, company leases, construction sites and associated properties (e.g., log decks, campsites, remote sumps, borrow pits). Before undertaking a Ground Disturbance, all reasonable and practicable precautions must be taken to determine whether or not an underground facility exists. (Refer to Appendix A - Ground Disturbance Guideline & Suggested Process for process flow.) 1.3 Definitions Controlled Area Crossing Agreement Direct Supervision A strip of land 30 metres wide on each side of a pipeline or to the edge of the right-of-way, whichever is wider. A document in writing that is made any time a ground disturbance by a third party takes place within a right-of-way or within 5 metres of an underground facility where there is no right-of-way. A Crossing Agreement is commonly used as the approval document and does not mean that an actual crossing is taking place. The Ground Disturbance Supervisor is in the immediate vicinity of work being performed and intimately aware of the job scope and its steps, capable of halting the work at any instant should the need arise. April of 41 Code of Practice

7 Ground Disturbance Ground Disturbance Supervisor Ground Disturbance Tasks (As per Alberta OHS Code Part ) Ground is disturbed if a work operation or activity on or under the existing surface results in a disturbance or displacement of the soil, but not if the disturbance or displacement is a result only of: a) routine, minor road maintenance, b) agricultural cultivation to a depth of less than 45 cm below the ground surface over a pipeline, or c) hand digging to a depth of no more than 30 cm below the ground surface so long as it does not permanently remove cover over a buried facility. Exemptions - The following is a list of jobs that have been identified as low-risk jobs and therefore a Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement would not need to be issued: Pounding in wooden survey peg to a depth of less than 30 cm. Pushing in wire marker flags to a depth of less than 30 cm. Note: Note: Note: Always follow the Safe Work System to identify all other hazards associated with ground disturbance. In the United States Excavation is the term used in place of ground disturbance. Most states consider excavations to start at zero depth or surface. For ground disturbance adjacent to above ground facilities such as a wellhead, vessel, tank, etc. also refer to the Safe Movement of Equipment and Vehicles on Well Sites and Facilities distance requirements. Any competent worker, verified by formal certification (Ground Disturbance Level 201 training), or Penn West pre-approved qualified vendors using the outlined qualification requirements and successful completion of the Penn West Ground Disturbance COP quiz, as well as sufficient experience to supervise a Ground Disturbance activity authorized by the Penn West Site Representative. In some cases (based on a hazard assessment) the same person can be a Ground Disturbance Supervisor and a spotter. Critical - Ground disturbance with mechanical excavation equipment within 5 metres of an underground facility: a) Must be performed under the DIRECT supervision of the Ground Disturbance Supervisor. b) Requires a Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement as well as a Safe Work Agreement and any other applicable permits. c) Requires the Production Operations Supervisor or designate to visit the site and sign off on the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement. April of 41 Code of Practice

8 Hand Exposure Hand Tool Notification Penn West Site Representative Performing Authority Penn West Pre-Approved Vendor Non-Critical - Hand exposure or hydrovacing in the vicinity of underground facilities with formal line locating does constitute a ground disturbance. The Penn West Site Representative will document a Safe Work Agreement, as well as a Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement. The Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement must include confirmation of records, a visual site inspection and preconstruction communication with Production Operations. If an area has been deemed free of underground facilities as per a formal line locating process and hazard assessment, the ground disturbance may then be deemed non-critical. The work will require completion of the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement by the Penn West Site Representative prior to work commencing. Non-destructive techniques acceptable to the facility owner/operator (such as hand shovelling or hydrovacing) must be done if the ground disturbance is carried out within 5 metres of an existing underground facility before commencing any mechanical excavation. When attempting to expose an underground facility, it must be done sufficiently to verify the identity of the underground facility (i.e., alignment, size, depth and possible change of direction). Hand-held equipment that depends on the energy of the worker for its direct effect and does not have pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical or chemical energy for its operation. A pick or axe cannot be used for hand exposure. Every owner/operator of an underground facility, found within the ground disturbance area and the search area, must be notified of the nature and schedule of the ground disturbance. Notification must be done a minimum of 2 working days (National Energy Board minimum is 3 days) and a maximum of 7 working days in advance of the proposed ground disturbance or as specified in the Crossing Agreement. The person onsite who is proposing to create the ground disturbance. This could be, but is not limited to, a person who is familiar with the operation and is directly in charge of the work. This person could be designated as the supervisor for Construction, Environmental, Drilling, Well Servicing, Seismic or local Production Operations. The parties in charge of performing the work as defined in the Scope of Work on the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement. The Performing Authority must ensure that the terms and conditions of the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement are acceptable and responsibilities identified are completely understood. In the United States, the Performing Authority is referred to as the Excavator. A training vendor approved by the Penn West Vendor Management & HS&T Contractor Management that uses the Penn West outlined qualification requirements for training, based on dedicated hours of instruction and content. April of 41 Code of Practice

9 Production Operations Supervisor Scope of Work Search Area Spotter Surface Acquisition/ Landowner Contact Report Underground Facility Any competent company employee or designate who is familiar with the operating area where the ground disturbance is to take place. All ground disturbance activities contained within defined (marked) boundaries by proper line locate and hand exposure for the proposed ground disturbance work area. Any ground disturbance activity outside these boundaries will constitute a change in the scope of work and will require a new hazard assessment, pre-job meeting and Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement. The 30 metres outside the intended excavation area. The individual(s) designated/acknowledged by the Ground Disturbance Supervisor to aid the Performing Authority when mechanical excavation equipment is being used within 5 metres of an underground facility. When encroaching inside the 5 metres, the Performing Authority (equipment operator) must be directed by the spotter to maintain the required 60 cm distance. The Ground Disturbance Supervisor must DIRECTLY supervise the activity during a critical ground disturbance. The spotter must be fully visible to the equipment operator at all times. A report from the land department, which contains information regarding a new lease for a well site and access road, and contains the following: Landowner Address Telephone number Acres Funds payable Any special conditions Anything located below the surface of the ground used in the collection, storage, transmission or distribution of water, storm water, sewage, electronic, telephonic or telegraphic communications, cable TV, electrical energy, oil, natural gas, steam, petroleum products, chemicals and other substances. An underground facility could range from a telephone or power cable, conduits, fibre optics, water service or pipelines carrying a variety of products to a fixed structure such as a cement piling, building foundation or underground tank. 2.0 Potential Hazards Hazards associated with ground disturbance activities may include but are not limited to: a) Electrical shock (underground/overhead facilities) b) Potentially explosive/lel * atmospheric conditions * LEL Lower Explosive Limit April of 41 Code of Practice

10 c) Toxic gases, oxygen-deficient atmospheres in excavations deemed confined spaces d) High-pressure releases, e.g., jetting e) Spills or releases of hydrocarbons or other chemicals f) Excavation cave-ins and engulfment g) Equipment movement and contact h) Laser exposure from fibre optic/communication cable i) Struck by/struck against heavy equipment Contact with underground pipelines or electrical and communication cables may result in ruptures, fires and explosions, release of toxic substances or substantial financial loss. Ruptures may have consequences ranging from loss of life to loss of services and environmental damage. Even minor nicks and gouges on pipelines and other underground facilities are serious. Corrosion or deterioration could occur rapidly causing leaks, possible emergencies and interruption of utilities and communication services. Employees and contractors, who knowingly violate Penn West safety or regulatory standards (e.g., negligence, substandard workmanship or failure to report any or all events associated with a ground disturbance) will face disciplinary action, dismissal or legal action. 3.0 Responsibilities It is the responsibility of the Penn West Department Manager, whose department is conducting ground disturbance work to ensure any personnel conducting the ground disturbance work, has been trained in this COP. 3.1 Penn West Site Representative Proposing a Ground Disturbance The Penn West Site Representative proposing the ground disturbance is responsible to: a) Identify any underground facilities that exist within the search area in which the ground disturbance is proposed. This area may change dramatically depending on the scope of work and physical geographical area that is to be disturbed. b) Ensure that an updated record of changes or additions to underground pipelines or utilities is forwarded to the applicable field office and Field Pipeline Integrity Coordinator responsible for the area as well as the Facilities department. c) Appoint a competent Ground Disturbance Supervisor. d) Ensure the Ground Disturbance Supervisor demonstrates that equipment operators and spotters are competent for ground disturbance activities. April of 41 Code of Practice

11 3.2 Ground Disturbance Supervisor The Ground Disturbance Supervisor is responsible to: a) Ensure that the work is conducted in a safe manner and in accordance with this COP and applicable federal or provincial legislation. b) Coordinate pre-job activities and DIRECTLY supervise any critical ground disturbance activity. The Ground Disturbance Supervisor shall perform the supervisory role only and cannot be involved in any other critical ground disturbance activity at the same time. (Refer to Section 4.0 Documentation.) c) Reference all available sources of information as far as reasonable and practicable to determine the existence of all underground facilities in the proposed ground disturbance work area. d) Conduct a formal hazard assessment and pre-job meeting, completing and signing off on the Safe Work Agreement and Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement in conjunction with the Production Operations Supervisor or designate; and complete all required documentation for ground disturbance activities (e.g., Pipeline External Coating & Pipe Inspection Report). Note: If the Ground Disturbance Supervisor must leave the site for any reason during any critical ground disturbance activity, this particular activity must STOP until the Supervisor returns to the site. 3.3 Production Operations Supervisor or Designate The Production Operations Supervisor or designate must visit the site to review the proposed ground disturbance activities before operations issue the safe work agreement or handover/site release. 4.0 Documentation 4.1 Information Sources Search for all underground facilities within the work area and 30-metre search/controlled area by reviewing or referencing the following sources: a) Maps and Plot Plans The owner of facilities should have records of their pipelines and facilities for leases and pipeline right-of-ways. Registered users can use industry based databases such as Abadata, GeoScout or EGIS. b) The Penn West Regulatory Affairs Department compiles and electronically sends out pre-ground disturbance packages before any work begins. Ground Disturbance Packages can be obtained from the Ground Disturbance Administrator in the Regulatory Affairs Department. The information package can be obtained by sending an to Regulatory@pennwest.com. Please advise the Ground Disturbance Administrator of the location, type of work being undertaken and date required. Requests for a Ground Disturbance Package should be made at least 5 working days prior to commencing any ground disturbance activity in the field to allow April of 41 Code of Practice

12 sufficient time to handle the volume and to be able to prioritize the work. Emergency packages for spills or line breaks will receive priority. These packages will contain: Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) Baseline map (Alberta Only) ACCUMAP/GEO Webworks or other comparable electronic mapping system Certificate of Title Systems Maps + as-builts & plot plans, if available Legal Survey Plans (lease or pipeline) c) ERCB Licensed pipelines with operating pressures above 700 kpa are registered with the ERCB. Township plans (base maps) showing registered pipelines are available and can be obtained through the local area ERCB office, if applicable. Note: Lines are not always exactly as shown. d) One-Call Systems British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Alberta all have One- Call Systems that provide a free computerized system to advise and help the employers and contractors undertaking the ground disturbance. However, not all companies are members of One-Call Systems. Alberta British Columbia Saskatchewan Manitoba not applicable not applicable e) Area Production Operations Personnel Experienced company personnel familiar with the Area Operations may be knowledgeable of underground facilities not otherwise documented. f) Land Titles If applicable, land titles will show caveats of lines and utilities on the property. g) Landowner If applicable, landowners may have knowledge of underground facilities not documented elsewhere, especially if they have installed something. h) Visible Markers Check the proposed work area for pipeline and utility markers. Cross-reference the contact list and ensure the company named has been contacted for additional information. i) Rural Gas Utilities There are several maps available that provide essential information on rural gas utilities commonly referred to as Gas Co-ops. (Contact the local branch.) j) Saskatchewan 12 Call List This is issued by Saskatchewan Energy and Mines (Refer to IRP 17.). k) Manitoba There currently is no One-Call number so each individual utility company (e.g., Manitoba Telephone Service and Manitoba Hydro ) must be contacted at least two days prior to digging for April of 41 Code of Practice

13 line locates. Due to limited staff and higher request numbers it is preferred to have up to two weeks notice in the summer/fall digging season. l) United States The United States have a common One-Call number, which is 811. One-Call Systems International administers it. Membership is not mandatory in every state. 4.2 Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement The applicable regulatory agreements, permits, licenses and approvals can change in accordance with the work being done. All applicable permits, licenses and approvals must be obtained prior to the commencement of any work including re-entry on registered right-of-ways except in an emergency (i.e., pipeline rupture or spill). The Ground Disturbance Checklist is a tool to help workers follow the COP and comply with applicable regulations. It is task specific and required for both non-critical and critical ground disturbances. (Refer to Appendix B: Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement.) Non-Critical Ground Disturbance The Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement Part 1 must be signed off by the: a) Penn West Site Representative b) Performing Authority (equipment operator) and must be reviewed on site by all workers involved in the ground disturbance Critical Ground Disturbance The Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement Part I and Part II must be completed and signed-off by the: a) Penn West Site Representative b) Performing Authority (equipment operator) c) Ground Disturbance Supervisor d) Production Operations Supervisor or Designate and must be reviewed on site by all workers involved in the ground disturbance Limitations Upon any change of scope of work, the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement is considered void and all work must stop until a new Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement can be completed. The Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement is considered valid for the scope of work up to a maximum of 7 working days. April of 41 Code of Practice

14 4.3 Notification Ensuring all Facility Owners are Notified Regulations have set guidelines and time frames for notification to the facility owner/operator of the company s intent to cause a ground disturbance within the proposed ground disturbance work area and the search or controlled areas. Notification must be received by the facility owner/operator a minimum of 2 working days and not more than 7 working days before the commencement of the ground disturbance. National Energy Board (NEB) minimum notification is 3 working days. Working days do not include Saturdays, Sundays, or statutory holidays. This notification time frame is written in the Crossing Agreement and generally demands that notification be completed within a specific time frame. Notification is most commonly performed through Provincial One-Call services, but if the owner is not a member, notification must still be performed as previously stated. Note: The NEB requires that written approval be obtained from them if a ground disturbance is within 30 metres of their NEB-regulated right-of-ways Receiving Owner/Operator Notification An owner/operator of an underground facility, who receives notification, is required to provide reasonable assistance to the employer or contractor creating the ground disturbance as per jurisdictional regulatory requirements. Upon being notified, the owner/operator must: a) Provide the third party undertaking the ground disturbance with information with respect to an underground facility in existence within the proposed ground disturbance work area and 30-metre search area. b) Locate on the surface of the ground the alignment of the underground facility with clearly distinguishable markers at suitable intervals. c) Provide at no cost the locating and marking required by regulation to the third party causing the ground disturbance. d) Carry out such inspections that are necessary to ensure the continued integrity of their underground facility. The owner/operator of an underground facility can allow the third party creating the ground disturbance to locate and mark their facility, but the owner/operator must still inspect the facility and ensure the locating and marking was done properly. 4.4 Crossing Agreements Before any ground disturbance work is created with a third party at any Penn West facility right-of-way or within 5 metres of a pipeline where there is no right-of-way, a written Crossing Agreement is required. (Refer to Appendix C - CAPP IRP 17 Facility Crossing Agreement.) April of 41 Code of Practice

15 4.4.1 Possession of Crossing Agreement The Penn West Site Representative must have a copy of the Crossing Agreement in their possession and the following critical information should be noted: a) The placement of facilities within the ground disturbance area in relation to any existing facilities. b) Proper support methods of exposed facilities. c) Distances that must be maintained between underground facilities. d) Notification time frames for underground facilities, if different from regulations. e) Distance that must be maintained with mechanical excavation equipment if different than regulations. f) Every facility owner/operator performs a documented backfill inspection. Forms used by the Penn West Site Representative to document a backfill inspection pertaining to a crossing agreement can be found in the Pipeline Operations & Maintenance Manual and the Asset Integrity Pipeline Forms (refer to Appendix E) and are listed below: i. Pipeline External Coating & Pipe Inspection Report - must be completed any time a pipeline is exposed for any reason. ii. The Right-Of-Way Crossing Report - must be completed for all line crossings. iii. Pipeline Crossing Inspection Report - for all exposed facilities. Note: In cases where Penn West is creating a ground disturbance within 5 metres of their underground facilities, a Crossing Agreement is not required Third Party Crossing Agreements The third party Crossing Agreement must include instructions that mechanical excavation equipment cannot be used within 1.5 metres of the exposed underground facility, unless: a) a written approval is obtained from the Penn West area superintendent or departmental manager responsible for the group conducting the ground disturbance work; and b) the excavation is done under the direct supervision of a representative of the owner/operator of the underground facility and a Penn West Ground Disturbance Supervisor. Third Party Crossing Agreements may require greater than 1.5 metres from the underground facility for mechanical excavation equipment. Activities on the Crossing Agreement may also commonly request hand exposure beyond 5 metres prior to any mechanical excavation. The pertinent Crossing Agreement information must be noted on the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement and/or communicated during the hazard assessment and pre-job meeting to all involved workers on the site. April of 41 Code of Practice

16 4.4.3 Changes or Conflicts with Crossing Agreements Crossing Agreements do not allow for changes to be made at the site level. No course of dealings between the two parties can change the agreement unless it is in writing and signed by the same parties who signed the original agreement. Where there is a conflict between any Crossing Agreement, this COP or the regulations, the requirement with the most stringent standards will take precedence. If there is a conflict that is not resolved or if Penn West standards are not being met, the Penn West Site Representative overseeing a third party crossing agreement has the authority and responsibility to halt a ground disturbance. Note: Each company provides different specifications and conditions on Crossing Agreements and, as such, these Crossing Agreements are legal documents and must be thoroughly read and understood by all participants at the site. 4.5 Safe Work Agreement As part of the Safe Work System, a hazard assessment and pre-job meeting must be conducted to discuss responsibilities and job tasks, identify and control hazards, and review procedural aspects of the scope of work with all persons involved. This process is to be documented on the Safe Work Agreement. The Safe Work Agreement will include, but is not limited to, reviewing the scope of work and the Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement. The hazard assessment and pre-job meeting must meet the following requirements: a) Encompass all safe work and procedural aspects as well as Crossing Agreement requirements. b) Identify and communicate to all workers the hazards and associated risks on site. c) Develop a plan to identify hazards and implement control measures to mitigate risks to an acceptable level. d) Identify existing underground facilities in the proposed ground disturbance work area and for an additional 30-metre search area. e) Identify line sizes, operating pressures and substances in lines (obtain MSDS for substances in lines and ensure they are readily available on site). f) Review isolation/lockout and tagout of pipelines, if applicable. g) Identify pipeline construction material, (i.e., plastic, fibreglass or steel). h) Identify cables and conduits. i) Communicate how lines are marked (i.e., colour-coded, stakes, pins). j) Identify the hand exposure techniques to be used for each underground facility. Communicate what will be deemed an acceptable/unacceptable hand tool for hand exposure techniques. k) Identify the distance that must be maintained by mechanical excavation equipment to an underground facility as well as above ground facilities such as a wellhead, vessel or tank. April of 41 Code of Practice

17 l) Identify PPE needed to conduct work as well any equipment required in the event of an emergency. m) Identify first aid personnel on site and ensure first aid requirements are met as per provincial legislation. n) Identify firefighting equipment required and location of the same. o) Verify cathodic protection energy sources are controlled. p) Identify hazards associated with water accumulation. q) Identify barricading and fencing requirement(s). r) Establish escape routes, muster points and evacuation procedures. s) Ensure an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is in place and communicated to all involved. t) Determine the types of soils to be encountered and what types of sloping, trenching and shoring are applicable where personnel may enter an excavation. Note: If the scope of work changes for any reason, you must stop the work and reassess, revisit and review all documentation for the potential hazards created by the change. All persons directly involved in the work must attend the hazard assessment and pre-job meeting. Ensure that any new crew members or any members not present at the hazard assessment and pre-job meeting, such as replacement workers, are informed of hazards and controls before starting the work. The Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement and Safe Work Agreement must be completed and retained on file. 5.0 Practices and Guidelines 5.1 Locating Underground Facilities Locate accuracy is completely dependent on the degree of difficulty of the type of locates and experience of the locator. Correctly identifying the type of underground facilities can impact the ability of the locator to find them. Training for locators should be both practical and theoretical based. It is up to each company to ensure that their locators are competent as per National Utility Locating Contractors Association (NULCA- 101 standard). No one standard is sufficient for all scenarios. (Refer to Penn West Line Locating COP, August 2008.) The line locators must validate and document the functionality of their equipment prior to use each day. A copy of this documentation must be given to the Penn West Site Representative. All known underground facilities as noted on the plot plan, site drawing, maps or facility searches that pass within the controlled/search area must be located and staked to indicate location, alignment, line size and depth, if possible. April of 41 Code of Practice

18 5.1.1 Locating in High Density Areas or Critical Ground Disturbances For critical ground disturbances or in areas where there is a high density of underground facilities, employ the process of "accounting for all the lines in the area". This involves identifying any potential sources of underground facilities (wells, headers, compressors, electrical distribution, etc.) and positively verifying that none of the underground facilities are within the search area. Appendix A - Ground Disturbance Guideline & Suggested Process in and Appendix B - Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement, Part II require two locates to be performed for high density, advance line locate or a critical ground disturbance. The two locates should be done by two different locating companies to verify the underground facilities. If there are significant discrepancies between the two locating reports, a third locate from a different locating crew is highly suggested Locates and Marking Requirements Due to locates being moved or altered because of potential changes to site conditions (extreme weather, moving equipment, etc.) industry and regulatory best practices provide regulated or suggested maximum time periods before locates for facilities become invalid or should be questioned and re-located. The Penn West standard of reverifying locates after work stoppages is 14 days or 10 days for gas utilities in British Columbia. This standard is based on complying with the Industry Recommended Practice (IRP) 17, British Columbia guidelines and OHS regulations. Regardless of what is stated above, always refer to the local provincial legislation if more stringent. The line locating company must locate and mark all underground facilities within the search area. Where underground facilities are discovered, the area must be electronically swept using a minimum of a 4-pass grid to ensure maximum detection capabilities. A competent locating person (as per NULCA-101 standard) must conduct the line locating activity and possess a copy of the site drawing/plot plan or an as-built map, if available. a) The line locator must locate all underground facilities using an industry-accepted method. In areas where there are multiple underground facilities or highly congested areas, or if there is uncertainty of the exact position of the underground facility two separate line locates must be performed by two independent line locate companies. b) When the owner/operator of an underground facility inspects a facility prior to the ground disturbance for locating and marking purposes, the owner/operator must prepare a written record of this inspection and retain it for at least two years. April of 41 Code of Practice

19 c) The utility/facility operators or their agents locating the underground facility should install a series of markers that meet the following requirements or equivalent: Conform to the International Colour Code for Underground Facilities: Electrical...Red Gas & Oil...Yellow Communication...Orange Sewers...Green Water...Blue Temporary Survey Markings...Pink Proposed Excavation...White Reclaimed water, irrigation and slurry lines...purple In a congested facility, an alternate colour-code scheme may be utilized; however, all parties involved prior to the ground disturbance must understand it. Be spaced not more than 5 metres apart or, where pipes follow a curve, spaced so that the curvature is clearly visible. Extend at least 30 metres beyond the proposed ground disturbance work area and be positioned directly above the centerline. Re-establish and maintain locate stakes following completion of topsoil stripping for the entire duration of mechanical excavation. Note: If for any reason a locate stake becomes displaced (e.g., due to weather or mechanical traffic) you must maintain the position of the locate. This may involve re-locating prior to excavation taking place. Form a cross consisting of two stakes at the point where the two pipelines intersect on the right-of-way. Be marked with appropriate coloured surveyor s tape to a stake or wire flag driven to a depth of less than 30 cm. Clearly mark the owner/operator name on each marker. This is critical at the point where the facility is to be exposed by hand. Note: As an additional aid, some locating companies mark the approximate pipeline depth on markers if requested. Remember, depth accuracy is only an approximation and not to be solely relied upon. 5.2 Exposure and Mechanical Excavation All underground facilities within a 5-metre radius of the proposed ground disturbance work area or within a facility right-of-way must be hand exposed by techniques acceptable to the facility owner/operator. Hand exposure must be completed before mechanical excavation begins. April of 41 Code of Practice

20 5.2.1 Hand Exposure or Hydrovacing All existing underground facilities in the proposed ground disturbance work area shall be exposed at suitable intervals by hand or hydrovac and identified for size and alignment prior to mechanical excavation. For new pipelines that run parallel to and within 5 metres of an existing line, the existing line should be hand exposed or hydrovacced at suitable intervals to accurately confirm line size and alignment. Hydrovacced and/or hand-exposed trenches should be a minimum of 60 cm deeper than the intended depth of excavation to confirm any lines situated below will not be contacted. Hydrovacced and/or hand-exposed holes must be large enough and suitably spaced to confirm line size and alignment (watch for underground facilities that have 90º turns or field bends). If there are any concerns regarding alignment or soil debris covering underlying lines, an effective practice is to hydrovac multiple holes or increase the hand exposure hole size and depth e.g., 1m x 1m (on either side of facility) x required depth to minimize the chance of any mechanical equipment within 60 cm. This will allow the operating authority a better view of the facilities, which should minimize the chance of accidental contact when the rest of the ground disturbance occurs. Hydrovacced pilot holes are required for the installation of all pilings and rig anchors that will be installed with mechanical equipment within 5 meters of an underground facility. If at any time an exposed underground facility becomes covered due to soil subsidence, sloughing, water, snow, or any other debris, the facility must be re-exposed by hand exposure techniques acceptable to the facility owner/operator. Note: Exercise caution when using a hydrovac to locate cables or plastic pipes. Remember line locates prior to hydrovacing and probe pressure must be regulated so cable coatings are not damaged or cause an electrical hazard. In addition the hydrovac fluid pressure and temperature must be maintained at suitable thresholds to protect the integrity of the underground facility. Note: When work and/or backfill inspections are complete, all hydrovac holes should be appropriately backfilled/covered as per compression expectations of the area and regulatory requirements regarding hole coverings and good housekeeping practices. (Refer to section for details) Mechanical Excavation Within 5 m When mechanical excavation equipment is used within 5 metres of any Penn West or third party underground facility, the responsible licensee for the facility will do everything reasonable to ensure the safety of the facility. The spotter must direct the equipment operator, and the Penn West Ground Disturbance Supervisor must DIRECTLY supervise the activity. The spotter must be fully visible to the equipment operator at all times. If Penn West is conducting the ground disturbance, the supervision must be at the ground disturbance excavation in conjunction with the third party Ground Disturbance supervisor. April of 41 Code of Practice

21 Within 60 cm Mechanical excavation equipment cannot be used within 60 cm of the exposed Penn West underground facility, unless: a written approval (refer to Appendix D) is obtained from the department (i.e., Production, Facilities Construction, Environment, Drilling and Well Servicing/Completions) Penn West manager, superintendent, or qualified person designated by either of the above responsible for the group conducting the ground disturbance work; and the excavation is done under the direct supervision of a representative of the owner/operator of the underground facility and a Penn West Ground Disturbance Supervisor. If a greater distance was specified in the Crossing Agreement, it must be followed, unless the addendum (Schedule C) stipulates otherwise. Penn West does not require a Crossing Agreement for Penn West-directed work on Penn West facilities Angle Crossings Crossing of underground facilities should generally be undertaken at an angle of approximately 90º. If, in certain situations it may be required to cross at angles less than 90º then the following practices will apply: a) Locate the centerline of the underground facility on the right-of-way and hand expose the crossing point. b) The existing underground facility shall be hand exposed at two additional points. Markers and colour-coded survey tape shall be placed directly above the existing underground facility at 1-metre intervals for the extent of the proposed excavation. c) Measure 1 metre on either side of the existing underground facility and install markers with colour-coded survey tape at 1-metre intervals parallel to the existing underground facility to cover the extent of the proposed excavation Directional Drilling or Boring If any third party or Penn West underground facility is being crossed by means of horizontal directional drilling or boring operation, the facility being crossed must be fully located and exposed by hand exposure/hydrovac to verify the depth, position and alignment. Hand exposure holes must be in the bore path and a minimum of 60 cm below and to either side of the facility (as per Alberta P/L Regulations 65(5)). A spacing distance of 30 cm for pipelines must be maintained (as per CSA Z662, Table 4.9). 5.3 Trenches and Excavations Regulatory Requirements Protective structures must be installed, maintained and dismantled in accordance with the specifications of a professional engineer, and these structures must be kept in place as long as workers are required to enter the trench or excavation. April of 41 Code of Practice

22 An employer must ensure that an excavation where a worker may be required or permitted to enter is kept free of an accumulation of water that may pose a hazard to the worker. Shoring, cages and design parameters used to protect the worker in an excavation or trench must comply with applicable excavating and tunnelling provincial legislation. Freezing, grouting and/or stabilization must be designed and approved by a professional engineer. Adjacent foundations must be supported as required. OHS legislation must be followed as applicable to avoid danger of wall collapse onto workers. Spoil piles must be at least 1 metre from the side of the excavation and have a slope of 45º or less measured from the horizontal. Power line poles must be protected from cave-ins. Since each jurisdiction has different requirements, refer to the applicable provincial regulations. Equipment is not to be closer than an equal distance to the distance measured from the nearest edge to the bottom if workers occupy the trench at that time. If equipment or heavy objects must be closer, a professional engineer must approve additional support in the trench Procedure Before a worker begins working in a trench, the Ground Disturbance Supervisor must ensure that workers are protected from cave-ins and sliding material by proceeding as follows: a) Since each jurisdiction has different requirements, refer to the applicable provincial regulations. b) Cut back the walls to reduce the remaining vertical height to less than what is required in the jurisdiction where the work is being performed. c) Install engineered temporary protective structures as per provincial regulations. d) In a trench or excavation (3 metres depth or more refer to applicable provincial regulations), shoring must be designed, constructed and installed in accordance with the specifications of a professional engineer. e) Ensure proper access/egress of the excavation is established. Ladders or ramps are two choices for a safe means of egress. Individuals in an excavation shall not have to travel in excess of 7.6 metres (refer to applicable provincial regulations) to the closest means of egress. f) Perform atmospheric monitoring in excavations that are greater than 1.5 metres deep and where a potential exists for a hazardous atmosphere. Treat these excavations as a confined space and comply with the Confined Space Entry COP. Hazardous atmospheres could include oxygen-deficient, flammable or toxic atmospheres. April of 41 Code of Practice

23 5.4 Backfill Inspections Once any part of an underground facility is exposed, the Penn West Site representative (or Ground Disturbance authority exposing a PW facility as per crossing agreement) shall confirm that the owner/operator is notified at least 24 hours prior to backfilling. Upon being notified, the owner/operator must inspect the exposed part of the underground facility to ensure no damage has occurred. Where an owner/operator inspects the underground facility for damage, a written record (including pictures) must be made and retained for the useful life of the buried facility. For Penn West facilities a written record would require filling out the appropriate forms. (Refer to Appendix E Asset Integrity s Pipeline Forms and Pipeline Operations & Maintenance Manual, Pipeline External Coatings & Pipe Inspection Form.) A summary of critical forms for backfill inspections includes: i. Asset Integrity s Pipeline Forms ii. Pipeline External Coating & Pipe Inspection Report must be completed any time a pipeline is exposed for any reason. iii. Right-Of-Way Crossing Report must be completed for all line crossings. iv. Pipeline Crossing Inspection Report must be completed for all exposed facilities. The Penn West Site representative (or Ground Disturbance authority as per crossing agreement) performing the ground disturbance must demonstrate that all reasonable efforts are made to procure an inspection before backfilling. If an inspection by the third party cannot be obtained, even after discussions with the owner, then a third party inspection with photographs must be performed Inspection Competency & Backfill Requirements As part of the backfill inspection, the onsite Penn West representative must be a qualified person (as designated by the departmental manager conducting the ground disturbance work) and ensure that any Penn West underground facility that has been crossed, whether by Penn West or a third party, is adequately supported prior to backfill. Proper support is needed to support the facility so that soil settlement and/or external stress do not exceed the tensile stress limits of the pipeline or the facility. Any additional support required must be designed and approved by an engineer. Backfill material will normally consist of the spoil removed from the excavation during exposure operations with appropriate construction to prevent damage to the underground facility (e.g., remove large rocks or other hard or abrasive debris prior to backfill). Penn West site supervision must remain at the excavation site until the underground facility has been covered in its entirety. Specific procedures for backfilling will be part of the repair and/or construction specifications or the Crossing Agreement and must be consulted in those documents. Underground conduits must be covered according to the Canadian Electrical Code. All hydrovac test points must be properly backfilled and meet the same compression characteristics as the excavation backfill. April of 41 Code of Practice

24 5.5 Contact of an Underground Facility Regulations state that if during any ground disturbance activity, contact is made with a regulated underground facility that all ground disturbance work must be stopped and the utility owner be notified. A Contact could include or result in any of the following: puncture or crack in the facility scratch, gouge, flattening, or dent of the surface damage to the protective coating In some cases even if contact to a pipeline did not produce a spill, due to integrity or corrosive reasons, the contact could eventually cause a release or compromise at a later date if not identified and repaired immediately by the affected utility Contact Response & Notifications In the event of a contact, the Ground Disturbance Supervisor must immediately: STOP any ground disturbance activity (including moving the bucket) once it has become known that a facility has been hit. SECURE the site. NOTIFY the Penn West Site Representative who will then notify the owner/operator of the underground facility with the location where the contact occurred and the damage that resulted. Penn West Pipeline - If the underground facility is a Penn West pipeline, the Ground Disturbance Supervisor must contact the Penn West Site Representative who in turn will contact the appropriate regulatory bodies, e.g., ERCB. Third Party Pipeline - If the underground facility is a third party pipeline, the owner/operator or licensee must immediately notify the required regulatory bodies of the location where the contact occurred and the kind of damage that resulted from the contact. Note: In cases where the ground disturbance has been terminated due to contact, the ground disturbance cannot be started again without approval of the owner/operator and possibly approval from the regulatory bodies. If the underground facility is an ERCB or NEB-regulated pipeline, their approval must be obtained prior to recommencement of ground disturbance activities. 6.0 Training and Quality Control Ground disturbance training is a formalized program intended for authorized Ground Disturbance Supervisors, equipment operators and spotters, with a written competency check. Refresher training must be provided as required to maintain certification, familiarity with the subject and regulatory changes. This training is designed to facilitate a ground disturbance from the preplanning stage to actual construction. April of 41 Code of Practice

25 All workers who may sign off on a Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement (i.e., PW Site Representative, Production Operations Supervisor or designate, Ground Disturbance Supervisor, Performing Authority) must have Ground Disturbance Supervisor Training equivalent to a Ground Disturbance Level 201 and must be trained in the Ground Disturbance COP. Spotters must have training equivalent to Ground Disturbance Level 201 training. (Refer to Intranet\Departments\Health, Safety & Training\Training\Safety Training\Ground Disturbance Training Providers for a list of providers.) It is also recommended that all workers involved in a Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement process are trained in the Ground Disturbance COP. Formal Ground Disturbance Supervisor training (equivalent to a Ground Disturbance Level 201) conducted by a Penn West pre-approved vendor includes: a) Definition of a ground disturbance b) Provincial regulations for undertaking a ground disturbance c) Defining search and controlled areas d) Facility existence sources e) Licenses and approvals f) Notification to underground facility owner/operator and Crossing Agreements g) Maps and plot plans h) Line locating explanation i) Hand exposure processes and marking j) Permits and hazard assessment, pre-job meetings k) Backfill inspections l) Environmental awareness 6.1 Quality Control Penn West has developed an audit process for any person that conducts ground disturbance activities. This process was implemented to ensure all ground disturbance activities carried out on behalf of Penn West, are in accordance with regulatory requirements and this code of practice. 7.0 Special Provisions 7.1 Detailed Site Assessment (Soil Samples) The Environmental Department s Reclamation Detailed Site Assessment (DSA) practices will be exempted from requiring physical locates from a line locator and hand exposures of underground facilities. The Reclamation DSA Safe Work Practice, (refer to Appendix F) must be communicated and followed by competent Penn West site representatives who conduct this task; Part 1 of the Ground Disturbance Checklist must be completed, although questions referencing locates can be checked N/A. April of 41 Code of Practice

26 7.2 Installation of Posts Non-mechanical When installing posts that do not require mechanical excavation or installation e.g., pound in by hand, use water pressure wand to pilot holes or use hand auger (to a depth no more than 1 metre and using owner/employer certified As-builts as per the Alberta OHS Code section 447 (4) & (5)) ensure you follow the safe work practices referred to in Appendix G Procedure for Installing Posts/Single Point Penetration Ground Disturbance Non Mechanical. This also complies with all provincial pipeline ground disturbance regulations Installation of Posts - Non-penetrating When installing posts or signs using non-penetrating means (such as weighted concrete, metal, etc.) blocks are the ideal method to prevent unintended contact with an underground facility. These methods can be used for temporary signage or areas where there is little risk of blocks being moved. 8.0 References and Regulations 1. Alberta Pipeline Act 2. Alberta Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Act 3. Alberta Pipeline Regulations 4. Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB): brochure: Safe Excavation Near Pipelines and Directive ENFORM IRP 17, Ground Disturbance in the Vicinity of Buried Facilities 6. British Columbia Workers Compensation Board (WCB) and the Oil & Gas Commission (OGC) 7. Saskatchewan Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) and Saskatchewan Industry & Resources (SIR) 8. Manitoba Workplace Safety & Health (WS&H) 9. National Energy Board (NEB) OPR Prevention of Damage To Buried Facilities in British Columbia Work Safe BC 11. Safe Procedures for Pipeline & Utility Crossings Manual Edmonton Area Pipeline and Utility Operators Committee (EAPUOC) 12. Guidelines for Working Near Buried Facilities EAPUOC 13. Ontario Electric Safety Authority: Guideline for Excavation in the Vicinity of Utility Lines, December Best Practices Version 1.0 BCCGA Common Ground Alliance, April of 41 Code of Practice

27 Appendix A Ground Disturbance Guideline & Suggested Process ************************************************************************************************************* This process is not a specific procedure and does not alleviate any individual from completing a Ground Disturbance Level 201 training course or becoming fully aware of the Ground Disturbance COP. ************************************************************************************************************* Ground Disturbance Permit Control Process Special Notes 1. ORDER Ground Disturbance Package. 2. OBTAIN encroachment agreement/crossing agreements from third party facility owners if required. Must comply with requirements from third party. 3. PLACE Alberta 1 Call. Remember to contact other companies not on One-Call. 4. OBTAIN landowner permission to access, if off lease. 5. IDENTIFY visible watercourse crossings. In the event of an incident/spill, you must prevent product from entering a water course. 6. MEET with operations for Safe Work Hazard Assessment or Well Site Handover documentation. Special considerations/approvals are required for newly constructed pipelines. 7. CONDUCT line locate. MEET with line locating representatives and conduct a walk-through of the site and review GD package mapping/as-builts. 8. ASSESS line locate observations & compare to the ground disturbance package to ensure all facilities are identified. Ensure line locating representatives have Canadian Association of Pipeline & Utility Locating Contractors (CAPULC) membership, see Section 8 of the Line Locating COP. Search for existing marker signs. Search for visible signs of underground facilities. Locate and mark overhead power lines. 9. Conduct a second line locate. If it is an advance line locate OR a critical dig. 10. ASSESS second line locate observation & compare to all previous documentation. 11. ENSURE isolation points are identified prior to hand excavation. 12. HYDROVAC or HAND EXPOSE buried facilities, at the point where you are going to start digging. 13. HYDROVAC or HAND EXPOSE the buried facilities past the outer limits (e.g., 1 meter of your dig site) in both directions, to confirm alignment. 14. HYDROVAC parallel lines that are within 5 metres of your widest point of excavation to the facilities you are working on every 30 metres to confirm alignment. If in doubt of location or significant discrepancies between package and line locate reports conduct a third line locate. In event of an incident, knowing where isolation points are can reduce human and production cost. Must be done to a significant amount to ensure buried facilities remain visible. If the buried facilities curve hydrovac to confirm the alignment. Hydrovac 1 metre beyond the outer facility on both sides to confirm there are no hidden facilities. Hydrovac all buried facilities within 5 metres of your widest point of excavation. SAFETY ALERT Secure all hydrovac holes to prevent entry. April of 41 Code of Practice

28 Ground Disturbance Permit Control Process Special Notes 15. CONDUCT hazard assessment and Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement to review line list, confirm lines in area, isolation points, isolation required. 16. Critical Ground Disturbances ACQUIRE permission to excavate within 60 cm, if doing so, from management/superintendent. 17. ASSEMBLE equipment operator, ground disturbance supervisor, equipment spotter & Penn West site representative and conduct site hazard assessment (Safe Work Agreement). Key points to review include: excavation requirements location of buried facilities substances within facilities isolation requirements reinforce Penn West standard to STOP excavation if excavator or spotter lose site of underground facility and recommence hand exposure practices. 18. COMPLETE Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement. If you are excavating within 60 cm of a buried facility, a Production or Construction Superintendent or Designate must come to site to complete both the Critical Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement and the 60 cm Mechanical Excavation Critical Ground Disturbance Checklist/Approval prior to start of excavation. 19. COMMENCE excavation using a designated qualified spotter for the duration of dig. As required in the Ground Disturbance Code of Practice. IMPORTANT NOTE For formal confirmation, senior management can use the 60cm Mechanical Excavation Critical Ground Disturbance Checklist/Approval form. Other codes of practices and checklists that are likely to be involved include: o Lockout and Tagout Zero Energy o Confined Space Entry If in Production area/lease, a Production foreman or designate must sign off to signify their knowledge of ground disturbance project and practices. IMPORTANT NOTE When excavating within 5 metres of a buried facility, the Ground Disturbance Supervisor must remain on site & in control of the equipment. If the Ground Disturbance Supervisor leaves the site all digging must STOP. If excavating within 60 cm, the Penn West Site Representative must be in the trench directing the equipment operator. If the site representative must leave the operator s line of site, all digging must STOP. IMPORTANT NOTE If excavating within 60 cm, the Ground Disturbance Supervisor must be in the ditch directing the equipment operator. If the site representative must leave the operator s line of site, all digging must STOP SAFETY ALERT Secure all hydrovac holes and excavation to prevent entry if site is left unattended. Designate a spoil pile area to obtain a minimum of 1-metre clearance from excavation edge. Ensure proper shoring and bracing has been arranged if existing structures or foundations could be undermined. April of 41 Code of Practice

29 Appendix B - Ground Disturbance Checklist/Agreement Ground Disturbance April of 41 Code of Practice

30 Appendix C - CAPP IRP 17 Facility Crossing Agreement Ground Disturbance April of 41 Code of Practice

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32 Appendix D - 60 cm Mechanical Excavation Critical Ground Disturbance Checklist/Approval Ground Disturbance April of 41 Code of Practice

33 Appendix E Asset Integrity & Pipeline Operations & Maintenance Pipeline Forms April of 41 Code of Practice

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37 Appendix F Reclamation Detailed Site Assessment (DSA) Safe Work Practice Detailed Site Assessment (DSA) Ground Disturbance Cautions 1. Determine the size of the lease by review of the survey plan. 2. Review all previously obtained information about the site from past work completed on the site. Review old line locate diagrams and the ground disturbance package to determine the number and location of any buried facilities. 3. Based on the size of the lease from the survey plan, determine the size of the grid that will be needed. For example, if the lease is 100m x 100m then the grids will be 20m x 20m. If the lease is 120m x 120m, then the grid size could be 20m x 20m or 30m x 30m. Note refer to Figure 1: Grid for an example. 4. Mark out the grid on the lease using survey lathe or pin flags. 5. Locate well centre with a magnetic pin finder and place some survey lathe or pin flags on that location. Caution! - Pin flags or other markers cannot be staked to a depth greater than 30cm. 6. Draw your grid on a piece of paper and number your grids. Make sure that you mark on the piece of paper the location of well centre, any buried facilities as well as any surface features (low areas, hills, etc.) 7. Based on the size and location of the lease (farmer s field on flat ground or in the forested area with rolling hills) determine the number of control sample points that are needed outside the lease (the bigger the lease, the more controls needed). 8. Walk around the outside of the lease and dig control holes with a shovel or spade to determine the depth and texture of the topsoil. Once the topsoil depth and texture are determined, replace the soil back into the hole. Caution! - Non-destructive hand power tools (e.g., shovel or spade, hand auger) must be used to reduce risk of striking underground facilities and force applied if facilities are struck. Caution! - Do not allow the stoney tip to be used on the hand auger. That head is most likely to cause damage to a facility if there is contact made. Refer to Photo 1 for acceptable models for use. April of 41 Code of Practice

38 Detailed Site Assessment (DSA) Ground Disturbance Cautions 9. Once the control depths and soil type have been determined, proceed onto the lease and start collecting the same information from each grid. 10. Start in one corner of the lease (grid number 1) and work your way through the lease. Dig one hole close to the centre of each grid with your shovel or spade. Dig the hole only to the depth of the topsoil. This depth should be very close to the depth of the topsoil found off lease in the control holes that were just dug. Notes: There are cases in some grids where there is the need to dig extra holes. In those cases you would step out 3-5m in a triangle from the original hole in the centre of the grid and dig three more holes. Same procedures as the first hole, just dig to the depth of the topsoil, record the needed information and replace the topsoil. The location of the original holes can be staggered inside each grid a little bit, but it is recommended that they be placed as close to the centre of the grid as possible to ensure accurate measurements of the soil over the entire lease. Every grid must be sampled to ensure that the DSA has been completed properly. Caution! - In grids where there are buried facilities or surface features the sample location must be moved to allow for a better sample point location or safer collection of the sample instead of directly over the buried facility. 11. Record the depth and texture of the topsoil on the piece of paper and then replace the topsoil back into the hole. If a DSA exceeds 30cm then follow the Ground Disturbance COP Non-Critical Checklist Procedure!!! April of 41 Code of Practice

39 Figure 1: Grid Here is a lease that measures 100m x 100m. C C WC 6 7 o x x o o WC = Well Centre x = shovel hole location inside the grid o = step out locations inside of the grid C = Control holes to measure the soil depth outside the lease 5 x 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 x C C Photo 1: Acceptable hand auger models April of 41 Code of Practice