Damaging underground utilities can be costly, dangerous, and disruptive. Before picking up your shovel for your next digging project, plan ahead to be safe or you just might dig up trouble or even tragedy.
Call 8-1-1 a few business days before your planned digging date. Once you have reported where you plan to dig and what type of work you will complete, the area will be surveyed and marked for public utilities within two to three days. This service is free of charge.
If you have any private utilities, you will need to hire a private utility locator. Some examples of private utilities include: underground sprinkler system, invisible fences, data communication systems, private water systems, or gas piping to a garage.
Once all marks have been made to indicate the location of underground utilities in the area, respect the boundaries, and dig carefully. Keep at least 24 inches away from the utility line markings. It can be helpful to excavate by hand when more control is needed to maintain this safe distance.
Before starting your digging, Safe Electricity recommends you keep these additional tips in mind:
- If an area has previously been marked for underground utilities, have it remarked. Erosion and natural processes can lead to shifting in the lines.
- If you hit a line in the process of digging, report it, even if it appears to be undamaged. Small dents and microscopic damage can lead to major utility problems.
- Always wear gloves and other protective equipment while digging. Keep a first aid kit on hand.
Stop work immediately if contact is made with an underground line. Your first priority should be evacuating the area for safety. Call 911 to notify emergency personnel and the affected utility. Even small nicks in underground lines can be expensive, but necessary, to fix.
If you believe it may be an electrical line that was damaged, warn those nearby that the ground and any nearby equipment may be energized. Individuals should take precautions to prevent from becoming electricity’s path to ground by remaining still with both feet together. If the area must be evacuated, keep your feet together and hop to safety as you leave the area. Do not resume work until the area has been confirmed safe by your electric utility.
For more information about digging safety, visit Call811.com and SafeElectricity.org.