Information 811 for Safe Excavation: Why It Matters
Excavation is a crucial process in construction and other industries, but it also poses significant risks. Underground utilities such as gas, water, and electricity lines can be damaged, leading to costly and sometimes deadly accidents. Fortunately, there is a way to mitigate these risks: calling 811 before you dig.
What Is Information 811?
Information 811, also known as “Call Before You Dig” or “One Call,” is a nationwide service that allows individuals and companies to request information about underground utilities in a specific excavation area. By calling 811 or visiting their website, you can provide information about your excavation project, and 811 will notify local utility companies to mark their underground lines, pipes, and cables. This will help you avoid damaging these critical infrastructure components and keep your excavation project safe.
The Importance of Calling 811
Calling 811 before you dig is not only a legal requirement in many states but also a crucial safety measure. By getting a clear understanding of the location of underground utilities, you can prevent serious accidents, including power outages, gas leaks, and water pipe ruptures.
Every year, there are thousands of incidents where underground utilities are damaged during excavation, leading to costly repairs, service disruptions, and sometimes even deaths. In fact, according to the Common Ground Alliance, an organization that promotes safe excavation practices, there were over 532,000 excavation-related damages in the U.S. in 2020 alone. By calling 811 before you dig, you can avoid adding to these statistics and ensure a safe and successful excavation project.
How to Use Information 811
Using Information 811 is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are the steps you should follow:
1. Notify 811: Call 811 or submit an online request at least two business days before you plan to excavate. Be sure to provide detailed information about your excavation project, including the location, date, and type of work.
2. Wait for responses: Once you’ve notified 811, local utility companies will be notified to mark their underground facilities in the excavation area. You will receive responses from each company indicating if they have or do not have underground facilities in the area.
3. Respect the marks: Once the utilities are marked, you must respect those marks and conduct your excavation project within the specified area. If you see that the marks are incorrect or missing, stop your work and notify 811 immediately.
Conclusion
Information 811 is a critical tool for safe excavation. By following the simple process of calling before you dig, you can ensure that you and your team can work in a safe, secured environment. Be sure to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to request the necessary information, respect the marks provided, and avoid damaging underground utilities. Remember, safety always comes first!
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