How far must the tracer wire be buried underground?

Tracer wire is used in conjunction with underground utilities to help locate them quickly and accurately. For effective and safe identification of buried utilities, it’s essential that the tracer wire is installed at an appropriate depth.

The correct answer states that the tracer wire must be buried more than 12 inches underground. This requirement is critical because if the wire is buried too shallow, it could be damaged during excavation or maintenance activities. Additionally, proper depth ensures that the wire is not subject to environmental conditions that could affect its longevity, such as frost heave or surface disturbances. The more than 12 inches guideline helps to keep the wire safely away from typical surface activity and reduces the risk of accidental cuts or damage.

Options that suggest less than 12 inches or direct placement on the surface do not provide sufficient protection for the tracer wire and are contrary to best practices in utility management and safety. The option stating a burial depth of at least 18 inches, while a common depth for some utility installations, isn’t the standard for tracer wire specifically. The key aspect to understand is that more than 12 inches ensures both safety and accessibility in locating underground utilities.