The dangers of digging without contacting 811

The Dangers of Digging
Without Contacting 811

Whether you’re a homeowner planting a tree, a contractor installing a fence, or a utility worker repairing underground pipes, failing to contact 811 can result in serious consequences.

Digging without contacting 811
can be a dangerous and costly mistake.

811 is the national phone number designated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for digging-related inquiries. When you contact 811, you’ll be connected to the 811 center providing service for that area.  If you are calling from a region outside the area where the work is being performed, you may have to be redirected to the proper state program.  The 811 center will obtain the necessary information on your proposed excavation project, to be used to determine the relevant underground facility owners to notify of your intent to dig. These companies will then send technicians to mark the approximate location of their buried facilities, allowing you to dig safely and avoid costly damages.

Real-Life Stories and Examples

Explosion in Murrieta, California
In 2019, a contractor in Murrieta, California was digging a trench for a new natural gas line when he hit a 3/4-inch gas line. The resulting explosion destroyed a home and injured 15 people, including three firefighters. The contractor had failed to contact 811 before digging, and had not obtained the necessary permits and approvals.
See Video
Explosion in Lee County, Illinois
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration says workers operating a tiling plow ruptured the pipeline, causing an explosion. At the time of the explosion, the workers were installing drainage tile.

The investigation determined that the land owner did not contact the Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators (811) before beginning the tiling project.
Read More
Lawsuits filed for failure to contact 811 when damages occur
The main cause of underground utilities being damaged by someone digging is not notifying the 811 call center to have utilities located. Awareness of 811 is high among professionals, yet 60% of damages reported in 2021 were caused by contractors, demonstrating that many are aware of the 811 process but still fail to contact 811 before they dig.

It is important to contact 811 before you dig because it provides you with protection from damage claims, injuries, and lawsuits - not to mention downtime - that can result from digging, boring, or blasting without being aware of underground facilities. It can also save Alabama residents the inconvenience of damaged facilities resulting in the loss of utility services. And in some cases, contacting 811 before you dig can even save lives!
Examples

DIRT – Root Cause Analysis

 

Common Ground Alliance’s (CGA) Damage Information Reporting Tool, (DIRT), collects root cause information and has 25 individual “known” root causes to choose from as well as the option to choose “root cause not listed” or “unknown/other.” The CGA’s Data Reporting & Evaluation Committee sorts related individual root causes into groups to provide a higher-level snapshot of what went wrong in the damage prevention process. No locate request stands alone as its own root cause group and has consistently been the single leading root cause each year.  

Without a request to 811, the rest of the damage prevention process cannot be engaged and effective.

View DIRT Report

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the dangers of digging without contacting 811. In addition to the risk of injury and property damage, you could face legal and financial consequences if you cause damage to buried utilities. Always contact 811 before digging, and follow the instructions provided by the underground facility owners. By doing so, you’ll ensure a safe and successful digging project.

 

The Benefits of White Lining in Excavation Projects

White Lining

When it comes to excavation projects, effectively communicating the exact location of the dig site is crucial for avoiding damage and ensuring safety. While providing the address is important, it’s equally essential to include specific descriptions within the site address, such as directions, distances, and references to accurately pinpoint the excavation area. This is where white lining plays a significant role.

What is white lining?

White lining is the practice of outlining the proposed area of excavation with either white paint or white flags prior to the arrival of the locator(s). It saves the facility locators time on-site and helps ensure that the entire area of excavation is located properly. Alabama 811 strongly encourages the process whenever possible. 

How to white line

FULL LINE

FOUR CORNER

DASH LINE

RADIUS or ARC

CGA - BEST PRACTICES
CGA - BEST PRACTICES

Benefits of White lining

Decrease avoidable damages

White lining has been proven to decrease avoidable damages in all utilities, resulting in substantial cost savings. 

Increases productivity

By marking the excavation boundaries with white paint or flags, white lining enhances productivity, reduces wasted time and effort during the call-before-you-dig process, and improves worksite safety by increasing accuracy and allowing locators to focus on the designated work area.

Reduces wait times

White lining also guides locators to spend time locating underground utilities accurately. By clearly indicating the excavation area, less time is wasted on non-essential areas, enabling locators to focus on protecting the facilities that need attention during excavation. This ultimately enhances worksite safety and minimizes the risk of accidents.

Increased worksite satisfaction

In addition to these advantages, white lining offers several other benefits. It ensures worksites are located with greater accuracy, allowing work to commence on time with fewer delays. This, in turn, reduces overall payroll costs by eliminating the need for additional manpower due to inefficiencies. By eliminating guesswork or misinterpretation, white lining increases customer satisfaction and avoids misunderstandings.

A Contractor’s Perspective

“White paint can be an excellent communication tool between the excavator and utility locator. Both parties can benefit. From the excavator’s perspective, it can clearly communicate the exact areas needed and eliminate a large percentage of confusion an call-backs. From a locator’s perspective, white paint clearly communicates the needed area, and helps provide a potentially more accurate locate, as well as a potentially timelier locate, by eliminating excess areas not necessarily needed.”

–McKay Lyvers, Damage Prevention Education Manager-Alabama 811

White lining is a simple yet powerful practice that significantly improves excavation projects

By taking the time to mark the excavation area with white paint or flags, excavators enhance worksite safety, increase productivity, reduce damages, and streamline the one-call process. Embracing white lining as a best practice in excavation projects will not only protect underground utilities but also save time, money, and resources while ensuring worksite satisfaction.

GeoRemote Training Videos and emergency tickets

Tier 3 GeoRemote online ticket entry training

including Emergency Tickets

This multi-part series will allow excavators to self-train on how to submit tickets using the ticket entry WebPortal. Successful completion of this training will allow users to advance to Tier 3 GeoRemote status so that a locate request ticket number is automatically assigned and transmitted directly to the Alabama 811 members listed on the locate request ticket.

Course Video Instructions

Users will have 30 days to complete each of the 6 training videos. Training is not considered complete if 100% is not scored on each of the video quizzes.

Once Alabama 811 has verified successful course completion, the user will be sent an email letting them know that their user permissions have been adjusted to reflect Tier 3 GeoRemote status.
*The verification process may take a full business day to complete

Please review the Ticket Entry Guidelines before beginning the training series videos.

GET STARTED
GET STARTED

While locate requests submitted by Tier 3 users are not processed by a CSR, tickets submitted by these users are screened regularly to ensure notices are submitted correctly. A copy of the Quality Assurance Process can be found HERE.

Please contact Jennifer Pickle (jpickle@al811.com) for assistance

GeoRemote Training Videos

Tier 3 GeoRemote online ticket entry training

This multi-part series will allow excavators to self-train on how to submit tickets using the ticket entry WebPortal. Successful completion of this training will allow users to advance to Tier 3 GeoRemote status so that a locate request ticket number is automatically assigned and transmitted directly to the Alabama 811 members listed on the locate request ticket.

Course Video Instructions

Users will have 30 days to complete each of the 6 training videos. Training is not considered complete if 100% is not scored on each of the video quizzes.

Once Alabama 811 has verified successful course completion, the user will be sent an email letting them know that their user permissions have been adjusted to reflect Tier 3 GeoRemote status.
*The verification process may take a full business day to complete

Please review the Ticket Entry Guidelines before beginning the training series videos.

GET STARTED
GET STARTED

While locate requests submitted by Tier 3 users are not processed by a CSR, tickets submitted by these users are screened regularly to ensure notices are submitted correctly. A copy of the Quality Assurance Process can be found HERE.

Please contact Jennifer Pickle (jpickle@al811.com) for assistance

GeoRemote Ticket Entry

GeoRemote Ticket Entry

24/7 online access to submit locate requests

Alabama 811’s online WebPortal ticket entry program has expanded the way excavators are able to submit notification of their pending excavation activity; by allowing users to bypass a phone call and submit their excavation site information directly to Alabama 811 and/or our utility members by simply filling out a locate request form via the WebPortal.

Want to learn how to submit your tickets online?

Training classes are FREE and take about 30-45 minutes to complete.

Topics Covered:

  • Required ticket information
  • WebPortal features
  • Renewing existing tickets
  • Copying existing tickets
GET STARTED
GET STARTED

Why sign-up for Tier 3?


The initial permission setting for the Alabama 811 WebPortal program allows excavators to entire their tickets through our Tier 2 entry-level program, without training, An Alabama 811 Call Center Agent will review the accuracy of the information entered on each ticket submitted by Tier 2 entry-level users.

TIER 2

Initial permission setting
  • Tickets can be entered 24/7*
  • Receive confirmation email containing ticket number
  • Can submit 2 working day notice, excluding the day of notification
  • Can renew tickets online
  • Access to Mobile App
  • Tickets processed immediately
  • Can submit Emergency
  • Can submit Short Notice
  • Training is required
  • Marking the map is required

TIER 3

FREE Training required
  • Tickets can be entered 24/7*
  • Receive confirmation email containing ticket number
  • Can submit 2 working day notice, excluding the day of notification
  • Can renew tickets online
  • Access to Mobile App
  • Tickets processed immediately
  • Can submit Emergency
  • Can submit Short Notice
  • Training is required
  • Marking the map is required
GET STARTED
Click to sign up for FREE training

Online Locate Request Ticket Entry Training

Select one of the three available training options

Training classes are FREE and take about 30-45 minutes to complete.

Individuals or small groups can request to attend a live online training session

To schedule an online training class; please select a day and time for the class you wish to attend, then fill out the user information section. Once your form is received, we will send you a link to the webinar. *All class times are Central Standard Time.

This is a date & time REQUEST only. We will contact you with information and links for the webinar.

Train at your own pace by watching several short videos and successfully completing the quiz included with each session.

Users are given a 30-day window to successfully complete the training.

Request a training session at your office place or at the Alabama 811 office in Fultondale, Alabama.

811 for the Ag community

811 for the Ag community

Farming operations have the potential for catastrophic outcomes when it comes to hitting buried utilities. Whether it’s a gas line, electrical cable, or water pipe, damaging these underground utilities can have far-reaching consequences for generations to come.

Contacting 811 can help protect your farm, family, and your community 

Tips to Remember

Never assume the location of a buried utility or attempt to mark it yourself

Regulations require that only utility company employees or its representatives are approved and qualified to mark a buried utility. Contacting 811 will notify the utility operator that you intend to work in the area of their underground utility and provide them an opportunity to check the depth of the utility to determine if additional actions are needed such as adding cover, lowering utility, or other special requirements.

Become familiar with the 811 system and the State's one call laws

For example, the utility company representative may be required to stand by to ensure work performed near a utility is done safely.

Contact 811 before any deep plowing, ripping, fence building, or drain tiling

It’s FREE, it’s SIMPLE, & it’s THE LAW

Wait for the utility company to mark

Don’t just rely on permanent underground utility markers to identify the location of buried utilities. These markers indicate the general location, not the exact location,
the depth, or the number of utilities.

Be sure to wait for the utility company to mark its utility. Once you have waited the required amount of time, verify that all utilities have responded to the request (check Positive Response). Some utility companies have heightened safety measures and may need to be on-site when work begins.

When working around utilities, be sure to dig with hand-digging tools to expose the utility

Use hand-digging tools to expose the utility when working around utilities. Dig with care using appropriate hand digging or vacuum excavation tools to expose the underground utility for your safety. Backhoes, augers, and other mechanical equipment should not be used when digging near utility lines. The utility company will instruct you on the proper
methods while working around their utility. Be sure to know the tolerance zone and never remove flags stakes or paint marks until you finish digging.

Know what to do if there is a damage or leak

Notify the utility company & Alabama 811 right away if you dent, scrape, or damage ANY type of underground line while digging. The damaged facility will be inspected &, if needed, repaired to prevent future consequences.

If the damage results in escaping flammable, corrosive, explosive, or toxic liquid or gas, immediately leave the area in an upwind direction & direct others to stay away. Once you’re in a safe location, dial 911 first, notify the utility company, & then report the damage to Alabama 811. Never continue to operate mechanical equipment in an area where you suspect a gas leak. This could cause an ignition putting you in great danger.

Myths

Myth # 1

811 is only for digging 

The definition of “normal farming practices” can be interpreted in many ways and varies between states. So, contacting 811 before any digging project is always the safe thing to do!

Some agricultural examples of when to contact 811 include:

  • drain tile installation projects
  • chisel plowing
  • subsoiling
  • deep ripping
  • building a waterway
  • digging fence posts
  • drilling water or irrigation wells
  • etc..

Myth # 2

“I know where the utilities are / I’ve contacted 811 before..”

The depth of pipelines and other utilities can change over time due to natural forces such as erosion or other dirt-moving activities. Or perhaps new facilities were installed since the last time you contacted 811.

DON’T make a risky assumption. Contact 811 Every time you plan on digging.

Myth # 3

“I’m not digging very deep..”

It is better to be safe than sorry, even for a small project.

811 will notify the proper utility companies so that they can have an employee or representative come out and locate the approximate location of the utilities before you dig.

Myth # 4

“Calling 811 will cost me time and money.”

Contacting 811 is FREE to you!  – The cost is paid by utility companies to protect you.

After notifying 811, professional utility locators will visit your site within the 2 working day notice (life-of-ticket example)

Myth # 5

“If I hit a pipeline and nothing happens, there’s nothing to worry about..”

Even if it appears that the utility isn’t damaged, always call and notify the utility company.

Even a small dent, scrape, gouge, or scratch in a pipeline or other apparently minor damages could cause a major problem in the future.

Contact 811 to get your underground utilities marked everytime before you dig

The fact is, underneath much of America’s farmland lies buried pipeline and utilities. These utilities may carry natural gas or oil, electricity, communication lines, or water. Any one of these utilities struck during a farming operation can cause dangerous consequences for you, your family, tenants, hired hands, your neighbors, your community, and the environment, possibly impacting your farm for years.

LOCATE REQUEST
LOCATE REQUEST

Fence Installation Checklist

Fence Installation Checklist

Are you planning to install a Fence?

Fencing and landscape operations account for a large percentage of underground utility damages each year. We’re here to help.

A fence may be installed on a property for a variety of reasons, including privacy, security, or aesthetics. While hiring a professional to install a fence is an option, installing it yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective DIY project. However, it can also seem daunting if you’ve never done it before. But fear not! In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to help you successfully install a fence on your property with the added help of Alabama 811.

Step 1
Plan and Prepare
The first step in installing a fence is careful planning. Start by determining the purpose of your fence, whether it's for privacy, security, or simply to enhance the curb appeal of your home. Consider the materials you want to use, such as wood, vinyl, or metal, and research local regulations and permit requirements. Measure and mark the area where the fence will be installed (the use of white paint to show your proposed worksite is a very helpful tip), and determine the fence height and design that best suits your needs. Before you begin any excavation work, contact Alabama 811 anywhere from 2 to 10 working days prior to your planned work by either dialing 811 or using our simple homeowner ticket link located HERE on the website to have the underground utilities marked to avoid any potential accidents or damage. Hang on to your locate request number that will be provided, you’ll need it in the next step.
Step 1
Step 2
Gather all the materials and tools
Depending on the type of fence you're installing, you may need fence panels, posts, rails, fasteners, concrete, a level, a post-hole digger, a saw, and other tools. Before you begin the installation, be sure you have all the required materials to decrease the workload, and the time spent on the project while increasing the quality of the fence. This is also a good time to check your locate request status by entering your request number HERE to ensure all the utilities have responded. The utilities are required to provide a response back on that link to let you know if their area has been marked, is all clear, etc. If one of the utilities listed has not responded, go ahead and call us back, and we can send out a second notice to the utilities to respond ASAP.
Step 2
Step 3
Install Fence Posts
The next step is to install the fence posts, which are crucial for the stability and durability of your fence. Dig holes for the fence posts using a post hole digger or auger, making sure they are deep enough and spaced according to your design. If using mechanized equipment, or anything with a motor within 18 inches on either side of the utility markings, understand what is required within that 18 inches by clicking HERE. Place the posts in the holes, ensuring they are level and plumb. Mix and pour concrete into the holes to secure the posts, and allow it to set according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 3
Step 4
Fence Panel Installation
Once the fence posts are set and the concrete has fully cured, it's time to install rails to attach the fence panels (or, for picket fences - rails, and then the pickets). Starting at one end of the fence line, attach the panels to the posts using appropriate fasteners such as screws or nails, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to use a level to ensure the panels are straight and level as you attach them. Depending on the type of fence you're installing, you may need to trim the panels to fit or add additional rails for support. Continue installing the panels until the fence line is complete.
Step 4
Step 5
Finishing Touches
Once all the fence panels, rails, and accessories are installed, it's time for the finishing touches. Use a saw or trimmer to trim any excess materials or uneven edges. Sand any rough spots, and apply a finish or paint to protect the wood or enhance the appearance of the fence, if desired. Double-check the fence for any loose or missing fasteners, and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
Step 5

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed a fence on your property with the help of Alabama 811. Installing a fence may require time, effort, and attention to detail, but with proper planning, preparation, and following the step-by-step guide outlined in this blog post, you can achieve a professional-looking fence that adds value to your home. Remember to always follow local regulations and permit requirements and contact 811 before excavation work, and consider seeking professional help if you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation process. Happy fencing!

National Safe Digging Month Resources

National Safe Digging Month

Please help us spread the Safe Digging Message!

Toolkit & Assets

Every year, the industry celebrates National Safe Digging Month (NSDM) in April. During the month, campaigns and activities focus on promoting safe digging to the general public and professionals nationwide. Here are some images and other tools that you may use to help.

Images + Infographics

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Social Media & Messaging

Weekly Social Media Messages

Facebook & Twitter Posts

LinkedIn Social Media Post

Nextdoor Social Media Post

Website Banners

468 x 60
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728 x 90
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970 x 90
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320 x 50
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250 x 250
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Alabama-811---know-whats-below---300x600---Large-skyscraper
300 x 600
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Videos

Feel free to use or share these on your social media, website, & more.

“Don’t Risk it”

15-seconds

“Avoid damages to underground utilities”

30-seconds

“Do you know what the colors mean?”

30-seconds

“Don’t risk it” 

15-seconds (non-animated)

Feel free to use or post links to the following articles:

All811 TipsEventsInformationMarkingNews

The dangers of digging without contacting 811

Alabama Damage Prevention Summit 2023

The Benefits of White Lining in Excavation Projects

GeoRemote Training Videos and emergency tickets

GeoRemote Training Videos

GeoRemote Ticket Entry

811 tips for excavators

811 Tips for Excavators

The damage prevention industry has many moving parts. Each stakeholder plays an important role in making the 811 process work effectively. If everyone involved works to make their area of responsibility more efficient, the entire 811 system will be able to function like a well-oiled machine.

The 811 System can only  work efficiently when we work together

INFOGRAPHIC
INFOGRAPHIC

Ways You Can Help

Provide Quality Information

Be sure to provide accurate and detailed information when starting a ticket

✓ Assess your route or excavation site
✓ Gather all your information
✓ Premark the location with white paint

Let the utility owners know if

  • you will need to be on site
  • pets are in the area
  • Gate code or locked gates

When making a call for notification or placing an online locate request to Alabama 811, please have the Proper Notification Procedures information available.

  • Name, phone number, address of the person who is digging
  • Name, phone number and email address of the person submitting the locate request
  • Name, phone number, and email address of the site contact
  • Who the work is being done for
  • Proposed starting date of the work
  • Nature of work
  • Type of equipment being used
  • If explosives are being used as well as if you will be doing any directional boring
  • City and County where work is taking place
  • Address and/or driving directions to the work location
  • Nearest cross street
  • Work site locate instructions
  • GPS if applicable
  • Any other information that will help utility operators mark their underground facilities near your work site

Be Specific About Location & Dimensions

Be specific about the dig site and only request marks in the exact area where excavation work is taking place.

This critical information helps narrow the scope of work so locators can focus on marking what’s needed for each project and avoid spending time on unnecessary marks.

Example:  locate a 50ft radius at base of pole at given address.

Mileage locates must be broken up into 1-mile segments if possible.

  • Multiple addresses on the same street may be entered on one ticket for up to one mile, but only if the work is being done in a continuous line or trench.  If the lines need to be marked up to the house/building, or if a pole along the pole line is skipped, then separate tickets will need to be entered.
  • If requesting to locate along a stretch of road, starting from intersecting roads, distance and direction from  the intersection must be listed on a separate locate request ticket for each road.  If the road indicated as your dig street intersects in more than one point with the provided intersecting road, you must be specific on which intersection is being referenced.
  • If requesting to locate a distance from an address, the distance and direction from the address must be listed on the locate request.
  • In order to use utility easements/right of ways, railroad tracks, county/state lines or creeks/waterways as a starting point, you must give distance and direction from two roads that you can see on AL 811 map to the starting point.
  • If requesting to locate a distance from a bridge, the distance and direction from the closest intersecting roads to bridge, as well as the distance and direction needed located from the bridge must be listed on the locate request.

Acreage locate instructions must include one of the following:

  • The total number of acres for the request, and/or measurements for the area to be located.  Ex: this is a 3 acre lot, or this property is 4000ft x 2000ft.
  • A list of all of the surrounding boundaries.  

Example:  The site is bounded by Smith St on the north side, 9th St on the west side, Ames Ave on the east side and Will Rd on the south side.

Be specific about the dig site and only request marks in the exact area where excavation work is taking place.

This critical information helps narrow the scope of work so locators can focus on marking what’s needed for each project and avoid spending time on unnecessary marks.

Example:  locate a 50ft radius at base of pole at given address.

Mileage locates must be broken up into 1-mile segments if possible.

  • Multiple addresses on the same street may be entered on one ticket for up to one mile, but only if the work is being done in a continuous line or trench.  If the lines need to be marked up to the house/building, or if a pole along the pole line is skipped, then separate tickets will need to be entered.
  • If requesting to locate along a stretch of road, starting from intersecting roads, distance and direction from  the intersection must be listed on a separate locate request ticket for each road.  If the road indicated as your dig street intersects in more than one point with the provided intersecting road, you must be specific on which intersection is being referenced.
  • If requesting to locate a distance from an address, the distance and direction from the address must be listed on the locate request.
  • In order to use utility easements/right of ways, railroad tracks, county/state lines or creeks/waterways as a starting point, you must give distance and direction from two roads that you can see on AL 811 map to the starting point.
  • If requesting to locate a distance from a bridge, the distance and direction from the closest intersecting roads to bridge, as well as the distance and direction needed located from the bridge must be listed on the locate request.

Acreage locate instructions must include one of the following:

  • The total number of acres for the request, and/or measurements for the area to be located.  Ex: this is a 3 acre lot, or this property is 4000ft x 2000ft.
  • A list of all of the surrounding boundaries.  

Example:  The site is bounded by Smith St on the north side, 9th St on the west side, Ames Ave on the east side and Will Rd on the south side.

Be specific about the dig site and only request marks in the exact area where excavation work is taking place.

This critical information helps narrow the scope of work so locators can focus on marking what’s needed for each project and avoid spending time on unnecessary marks.

Example:  locate a 50ft radius at base of pole at given address.

Mileage locates must be broken up into 1-mile segments if possible.

  • Multiple addresses on the same street may be entered on one ticket for up to one mile, but only if the work is being done in a continuous line or trench.  If the lines need to be marked up to the house/building, or if a pole along the pole line is skipped, then separate tickets will need to be entered.
  • If requesting to locate along a stretch of road, starting from intersecting roads, distance and direction from  the intersection must be listed on a separate locate request ticket for each road.  If the road indicated as your dig street intersects in more than one point with the provided intersecting road, you must be specific on which intersection is being referenced.
  • If requesting to locate a distance from an address, the distance and direction from the address must be listed on the locate request.
  • In order to use utility easements/right of ways, railroad tracks, county/state lines or creeks/waterways as a starting point, you must give distance and direction from two roads that you can see on AL 811 map to the starting point.
  • If requesting to locate a distance from a bridge, the distance and direction from the closest intersecting roads to bridge, as well as the distance and direction needed located from the bridge must be listed on the locate request.

Acreage locate instructions must include one of the following:

  • The total number of acres for the request, and/or measurements for the area to be located.  Ex: this is a 3 acre lot, or this property is 4000ft x 2000ft.
  • A list of all of the surrounding boundaries.  

Example:  The site is bounded by Smith St on the north side, 9th St on the west side, Ames Ave on the east side and Will Rd on the south side.

Give Good Contact Name & Phone #

Be sure to provide accurate and detailed information when starting a ticket

  • Providing good contact information sounds obvious, but many tickets are received with a bad phone number or a phone that goes straight to a voicemail box that is full.

  • To avoid delays, provide the contact information for someone who is on-site or familiar with the dig-site and schedule.

  • Providing good contact information sounds obvious, but many tickets are received without a name or phone number.

  • To avoid delays, provide the contact information for someone who is on-site or familiar with the dig-site and schedule.

Give Accurate Description of Work Being Performed

  • Make sure to provide an accurate description of the work being performed.

  • Providing more detail enables locators to address internal concerns in advance, arrive better prepared, and get straight to business.

  • In the case of an apartment complex, or specific lot numbers, individual building or lot numbers should go on different tickets. Since these building numbers or lot numbers cannot be related to a specific address, they require different notifications.

  • When excavation involves more than one street, When working at an intersection, the intersection can go on one notification. If the excavation is at an intersection and continues down one street, then that information can go on one notification. If the excavation is at an intersection and continues down two streets, the second street requires another notification.

  • Provide accurate driving directions with distances and cardinal headings (North, South, East, West) when working in rural areas.
  • Make sure to provide an accurate description of the work being performed.

  • Providing more detail enables locators to address internal concerns in advance, arrive better prepared, and get straight to business.

  • In the case of an apartment complex, or specific lot numbers, individual building or lot numbers should go on different tickets. Since these building numbers or lot numbers cannot be related to a specific address, they require different notifications.

  • When excavation involves more than one street, When working at an intersection, the intersection can go on one notification. If the excavation is at an intersection and continues down one street, then that information can go on one notification. If the excavation is at an intersection and continues down two streets, the second street requires another notification.

  • Provide accurate driving directions with distances and cardinal headings (North, South, East, West) when working in rural areas.

Manage Ticket Quantity

  • In addition to improving the quality of information you provide, we also ask that you manage the quantity of your requests.

  • For larger projects, the area noted on the request should be no more than what can be worked during the 20 working day period.

  • §37-15-4 (h) (Section 37-15-4) Except for those persons submitting design or survey locate requests, no person, including operators, shall request markings of a site unless excavation is scheduled to commence. In addition, no person shall make repeated requests for remarking, unless the repeated request is required for excavating to continue or due to circumstances not reasonably within the control of the person.

Give Sufficient Notice & Eliminate Unnecessary Requests

  • It’s important that you request utility locates with sufficient notice to be marked, but not more than you can reasonably begin within the life of the ticket.

  • Too many tickets at once can put a strain on the system and keep locators from getting to more time-sensitive sites. So, avoid requesting “backup” sites to be marked, or creating “just in case” tickets.

  • Active tickets should match the actual schedule of the work being performed and follow the requirements in your state dig law.

  • Indicate the Date and Time you plan to start the work. It is very important not to begin work prior to the legal start date and time. The legal start date and time is two working days, not counting the day of notification, after the notification was made based on proposed date of excavation. “Working Day” is a 24-hour period commencing the beginning of the start of the next working day from the time of receipt of the notification, excluding Saturday, Sunday and the nine holidays outlined in the Alabama Code Title §37 Chapter 15 Section 1-11 Underground Damage Prevention Legislation.

  • Notification of excavation can be up to 10 working days prior to the start of excavation and up to 30 working days prior to demolition.

  • Locate information is dispatched to the member underground facility operators. The member underground facility owners, or their representatives, will mark their buried facility by the legal due date and time.

Remove Completed Requests

  • Avoid locate renewals and remarks on jobs that have been completed.

  • Often locate requests are updated or refreshed long after work has been finished.

  • This causes locators to spend time marking inactive job sites when they could be marking active ones.

  • §37-15-4 (h) No person shall make repeated requests for remarking, unless
    the repeated request is required for excavating to continue or due to circumstances not reasonably within the control of the person.
MANAGE TICKETS
MANAGE TICKETS

811 Tips for facility owners and operators

811 Tips for Facility Owners & Operators

The damage prevention industry has many moving parts. Each stakeholder plays an important role in making the 811 process work effectively. If everyone involved works to make their area of responsibility more efficient, the entire 811 system will be able to function like a well-oiled machine.

The 811 System can only  work efficiently when we work together

The role of the Facility Owner/Operator is vital to the Damage Prevention Industry. Most of your responsibility involves locating and marking lines. Whether you do this yourself or hire a locate partner, be sure to watch this video for ways to make the process more efficient.

INFOGRAPHIC
INFOGRAPHIC

FACILITY OWNER/OPERATORS & LOCATE PARTNERS CAN HELP

Damage Prevention Starts Early

Accurately Record Where Cable/Wires are First Placed

Locating & Marking

  • Implement Software/Utilize Online Portals
  • Look for New Ways to Improve Efficiency/Accuracy
  • Provide On-Time Response & Accurate Locates
  • Make Marking Highly Visible, Factor in Weather/Terrain
  • Provide Good Contact Information
  • Keep Mapping Data Up to Date

Foster Relationships & Partnerships

Keep Good Lines of Communication with Other Stakeholders

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES