Dashpivot article – AS5488 colour codes
AS5488 Colour Codes
There are special meanings to the line colours and marking codes; they show that there are utilities under the surface. These marks are put in place to aid utility workers in avoiding trenches that will not be used, preventing damage to subterranean utilities, or saving lives when working near these utilities.
Not knowing what to look for when you see utility markings might be rather frustrating. You should familiarise yourself with the local colours and symbols before starting any work, as they can differ from one location to another.
For the purpose of documenting subsurface utility information, the Australian government adheres to the structure outlined in the Australian Standard for the Classification of Subsurface Utility Information (AS 5488). Codes, line kinds, and colours are all part of this standard. More clarity and less room for interpretation will result from sticking to this industry standard.
The importance of AS5488 colours
Ground marks, marks on the ground, or site marks, whichever you may like to call them; these merely indicate temporary indications of subsurface facilities to prevent accidents or service interruption by excavators, utility locators, and contractors.
Utility locating experts utilise these marks to show where to and where not to dig, therefore guiding contractors and excavators towards what is underneath before starting any project. Above all, to enable individuals working on-site avoid destroying any subterranean
The AS5488 Colour Codes
Each type of utility under the AS5488 standard is associated with a specific colour, making it easier to distinguish between various services. The standard colour codes are:
| Utility | Description |
|---|---|
| Communications | It has the primary code "C". It includes Communication lines, including telephone, internet cables, CCTV, security & traffic signals are marked in white, or if on a white background in black. |
| Water | It has the primary code "W". Blue is used for potable, drinking water lines. |
| Fire Service | It has the primary code "F". Red lines on a map signify pipes, electrical, anything to do with fire services. |
| Sewer | It has the primary Code "S". Cream is chosen for sewer and waste water. |
| Gas | It has the primary code "G". Gas lines, including natural gas and other gas services, are marked in yellow. This is important for preventing gas leaks and related hazards. |
| Drainage | It has the primary code "D". Storm water or raw water are marked in green, reflecting its association with environmental elements. |
| Reclaimed Water | It has the primary code "R". Non-potable water systems, including recycled water, are designated with purple. |
| Electricity/Power | It has the primary code "E". Orange is used for electric utilities, alerting workers to the presence of power cables, which pose significant safety risks. |
| Petroleum Products | It has the primary code "P". Brown is used for Petroleum Products (including oil) flammable and combustible materials. |
| Unknown | It has the primary code "U". Pink is used for unknown services/assets, as well as temporary markings. |
Application in Utility Mapping
Phase of Design
These colour codes are used by architects and engineers to denote the presence and types of utilities in blueprints and drawings.
Building Sites
Excavators and construction workers use the codes to identify places on-site and avoid damaging utilities.
Updating and Maintenance
When it comes time for utility maintenance, these colour codes make it easy to find and identify the specific service that needs fixing.
Best Practices for Using AS5488 Colour Codes
Consistency
It is absolutely essential that all markers, whether physical and recorded, follow the given colour schemes. This will provide consistency and make it easier for reviews and contract transfers. Wrong colour coding could prove dangerous, especially if there is a change of contractors.
Training
Workers and planners should be trained in understanding and applying these colour codes. Consistent usage of the colour-coding system by a well-trained team can reduce errors and encourage rule compliance.
Updating Maps
If there are any alterations or new installations, the appropriate colour codes should be added to the utility maps on a regular basis.
The AS5488 colour codes are an integral part of managing subsurface utilities, ensuring safety and efficiency in urban development and construction projects. By adhering to these codes, professionals can avoid costly mistakes and accidents while ensuring a smoother workflow and clearer communication among all parties involved.
See an example of how you can use AS5488 colour codes in a utility locating report below.
Standardise your Utility Reports with AS5488 colour codes
Using our pre-built Utility Service Locating template will enable your staff to directly gather comprehensive reports on site straight from their mobile or tablet, thereby including AS5488 colour codes into your Utility Reports.It comes standardised with all the sections and fields you need to reflect what the utility is, the category, the quality level of the accuracy for the information, where it is, what was used to acquire the information, and more.
Add fields and sections with the drag-and-drop form builder if you must record any additional data particular to your project or site.
Attached to your reports, pictures and videos will help you demonstrate where utility lines were discovered and any other pertinent information.
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