Low Impact Markings Study – Final Report

Project Objective:
A wide variety of paints, materials, and techniques were tested and characterized in an effort to identify products and methods that can be used for temporary utility marking. If marking materials can dissolve or fade to acceptable levels, they would eliminate the cost involved in a return visit to remove the markings.

Project Description:
An increasing number of localities are considering regulations which would require utilities to remove paint or other markings made by utility crews when locating facilities, responding to “one-call” situations, and conducting other operations activities. Some initiatives are calling for the removal of markings within 15 to 30 days from the initial application. However, when an additional trip is required to remove these markings, it is a major additional expense as the cost to remove the markings often exceeds the cost involved in the original marking activities.

While numerous temporary paints and coatings are being marketed, researchers found little information available as to their performance under various conditions. Generally, the manufacturer provides only a blanket statement (e.g., “lasts up to 30 days”) without further qualification or elaboration. The lack of such data creates the risk that markings will either fail prematurely or endure too long.

The objective of this project was to test and characterize temporary paint and other marking/marking removal techniques that would eliminate the need for return visits to remove the markings.