753-3.12 Required support and protection for underground facilities.

(a)An excavator shall provide prompt and adequate support and protection for every underground facility located in the work area as is reasonably specified by the operator of any such facility.#

(b)In the absence of any specifications by the operator, the excavator shall provide support and protection in accordance with generally accepted engineering practice, including but not limited to shoring and bracing.#

(c)Support shall be at least equivalent to the previously existing support and shall protect the underground facility against freezing and against traffic and other loads.#

(d)Support shall be maintained during excavation, during backfilling and, if necessary, after backfilling is completed.#

(e)The operator may, in agreement with the excavator, provide such support.#