RDI workflow
Dig Permit & Underground Utility Clearance Documentation
fixed camera recordings provide timestamped visual documentation that permit-to-dig procedures were observed before ground excavation commenced.
- Category
- Compliance & Regulatory
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Confidence
- Medium
- Evidence records
- 5
- Cost model
- Qualitative
Trigger, activity, conclusion
A ground excavation activity is planned in an area with known or suspected underground utilities. Alternatively, a utility strike has occurred and an investigation requires whether the permit procedure was followed.
Documenting through camera footage that permit-to-dig process steps — utility mark-out, CAT scan sweep, hand-dig trial holes, and pre-dig sign-off — were completed before any mechanical excavation commenced.
A complete visual record exists confirming that the permit-to-dig procedure was followed.
Workflow steps
- Step 01
An excavation scope identified; permit-to-dig raised specifying location, depth, dimensions, and utility clearance requirements.
Inferred - Step 02
Utility records obtained from service providers; excavation area marked out on surface.
Inferred - Step 03
CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny scan conducted over the marked excavation area; result recorded on permit.
Inferred - Step 04
Camera footage covering the excavation area confirmed live and recording before the pre-dig inspection begins.
Evidenced - Step 05
Pre-dig inspection and sign-off conducted at the excavation face — captured on camera with a visible timestamp.
Evidenced - Step 06
Hand-dig trial holes excavated within the permit zone to physically confirm absence or location of underground services. Camera footage records this step.
Inferred - Step 07
Mechanical excavation commences within approved parameters. Camera provides continuous record.
Evidenced - Step 08
If a utility unexpectedly encountered, work stops immediately. Camera footage from steps 4–7 immediately preserved as evidence that the permit procedure was followed.
Inferred - Step 09
On completion, permit closed out and signed off. Camera footage archive linked to the permit record.
Inferred - Step 10
Footage retained for the contractual liability period in case of a delayed utility strike claim or regulatory investigation.
Inferred
Evidence records
Timestamped camera evidence used to document that utility clearance checks and permit-to-dig procedures were completed before ground excavation commenced.
Contractor cut trench drain in the wrong location — camera was unplugged at the critical moment, resulting in a $40k error with no footage to establish procedure compliance or responsibility. This directly evidences the cost of the workflow's absence.
The ability to remotely check work zones helped avoid multiple daily trips across the site.
ROI model
dispute claims
Evercam provides visual evidence that resolves or prevents disputes with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients. Saving from faster resolution, avoided escalation, and prevented overcharges.
saving = (disputes_avoided_pct × disputes_per_year × avg_resolution_cost) + (overcharges_prevented_per_year × avg_overcharge_value)