SAE J2519-2026 Guidelines and Procedures for Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Machine Tracking Equipment Operators

Safety guidelines and operating procedures for personnel using directional drilling tracking equipment with horizontal directional drilling machines.

SAE J2519™ JAN2026 provides general guidelines and precautions for personnel operating directional drilling tracking equipment with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machines covered by ISO 21467:2023. The document addresses pre-drilling preparations, utility locating and clearance, personal protective equipment, communication, tracking practices, equipment interference, and emergency procedures for electrical, gas, fiber optic, water, and sewer strikes. It supersedes SAE J2519 MAR2013 and was revised in January 2026.

Application Scope: For manufacturers, contractors, trainers, HDD machine operators, tracking equipment operators, and jobsite personnel involved in horizontal directional drilling operations.