When it comes to construction projects, it’s important to know about information 811 before digging. Digging without knowing the right information can lead to several negative consequences, including damage to underground infrastructure, injury, loss of service, and even legal consequences.
Information 811 is a national program that provides a free service to connect professional excavators, contractors, homeowners, and the general public with local one-call centers. The service enables them to provide notice of their intended excavation activities and to receive information about underground utilities in the excavation area.
One of the primary reasons why it’s essential to know about information 811 is to avoid hitting buried electrical, gas, or communication lines, which can cause severe harm to operators and contractors. Accidentally striking these types of assets can result in fires, explosions, and outages, which can inconvenience the affected area residents and businesses for several hours or even days.
Another critical reason for knowing about information 811 is to avoid damaging other underground infrastructure, such as water lines, sewage pipes, and cable TV lines. Damage to these assets can lead to sewage spills, loss of drinking water, or a decrease in the quality of communication services.
Knowing about information 811 can also help ensure regulatory compliance and avoid legal repercussions. In most areas, it is unlawful to excavate without first contacting one-call centers and obtaining the required information and asset location records.
To avoid the risks associated with digging without knowing about information 811, it’s essential to follow these steps before commencing any excavation activities:
1. Call 811 or visit the one-call centers online to initiate the request.
2. Provide the required information, including your contact details, excavation area, and project timing.
3. Wait for the one-call center representatives to notify the affected utility companies of your excavation activity.
4. Wait for the utility companies’ field technicians to mark the location of their underground assets, providing an indication of the lines’ approximate location.
5. Respect the marks and avoid digging until you’ve confirmed that it’s safe to proceed with the excavation.
In conclusion, knowing about information 811 is crucial for safe and efficient excavation activities. It helps avoid costly damages, legal issues, service disruptions, and personal injuries. By following the above steps and other applicable regulations, excavators can ensure the success of their projects while preserving the safety of the public and the environment.
