Protecting underground service pipes prior to compacting

[seneca]

Hi this is a first post for me.

I have dug all the topsoil down to approx 18'' in my 6x8m lawned front garden with a view to putting down MOT type 1 limestone scalpings (40mm-dust) then gravelling
But running along side an existing concrete slab drive I have found three service pipes, these\are:

* a black coated metal cable presumably the electricty approx 1.5'' diam

* an black alcathene water pipe

* a grey/yellow plastic pipe (gas??) about 1.5'' diam

All these run parallel from the street to the house. The soil is clay but is hard subsoil (albeit is a bit soggy at the moment). House was built in the 1950's.

My question is can i put the MOT down and compact it with a vibrating plate without damaging the services. And if not how best to protect them. Will cutting a plastic soil pipe in half and laying over the top do the trick?

Any help would be great, cheers

Rob

[stoneyboy]

seneca,
Put a good covering of sand over the pipes, about 75mm should be adequate.
end

[welsh brickie]

as stoneyboy says cover with sand but also lay warning tape ontop of it.you can buy it from your local builders merchant

[seneca]

Thanks guys, most helpful. Will get a grab bag and give it a covering before getting the MOT delivered. Cheers.