Excavation work—whether for construction, landscaping, or home improvement—requires careful planning, especially when digging near utility lines. Accidentally hitting an underground utility line can lead to serious consequences, including natural gas leaks, power outages, service disruptions, and even life-threatening injuries.
To prevent utility line damage and ensure safe excavation practices, follow these essential steps when preparing for any digging project.
Step 1: Call 811 Before You Dig
The first and most important step in safe digging is to call 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” service. This free service connects you with local utility companies, who will mark the utilities on your property.
Why Call 811?
- Prevents accidental damage to underground utilities.
- Notifies utility companies so they can mark the location of gas lines, electric cables, water pipes, and more.
- Helps you plan a safe excavation without disrupting essential services.
You must call at least two business days before digging. Utility companies will send professionals to mark the locations of buried utilities using spray paint, flags, or stakes. Each color represents a different type of utility:
- Red: Electric power lines
- Yellow: Natural gas, oil, steam, or petroleum pipelines
- Blue: Drinking water
- Green: Sewer and drain lines
Knowing where these lines are located ensures you dig in the right areas without damaging vital infrastructure.
Step 2: Review Marked Utilities and Plan Your Digging Area
Once the marked utilities are in place, carefully review their locations and adjust your excavation plans accordingly. Never assume utility lines are deeper than they appear—depths can vary due to erosion, previous excavation, or soil movement.
Best Practices for Safe Digging Areas
- Maintain a safe distance of at least 18–24 inches from marked utilities.
- Use non-mechanical hand tools like shovels near underground pipes and gas lines to avoid accidental punctures.
- If digging near multiple utility lines, break the work into sections to reduce the risk of hitting a buried line.
Step 3: Assign a Competent Person to Oversee the Work
For large-scale excavation work, having a competent person on-site is crucial. This individual should be trained in safe excavation practices and capable of identifying hazards that could lead to injuries or utility damage.
A Competent Person Should:
- Inspect the excavation area before work begins.
- Ensure workers maintain a safe distance from underground lines.
- Monitor for signs of toxic gases or leaks, especially when working near natural gas pipelines.
- Stop work immediately if an unmarked utility is found and notify the proper authorities.
A trained overseer reduces the risk of errors and protects workers from potential hazards.
Step 4: Use Proper Digging Techniques
To avoid damaging buried utilities, follow these safe excavation practices:
1. Use Hand Digging Near Utility Lines
Heavy machinery poses a higher risk of striking underground cables or pipes. When digging near marked utilities, always use hand tools, such as shovels, to carefully expose buried lines.
2. Dig Parallel to Utility Lines, Not Across
Digging directly across a utility line increases the chance of accidental damage. Instead, dig parallel to the line, gradually uncovering it while maintaining a safe distance.
3. Excavate in Layers
Remove soil in small sections to prevent hitting underground cables or pipes. Never force tools into the ground blindly—take your time to protect workers and avoid unnecessary damage.
Step 5: Watch for Signs of Utility Line Damage
Even with careful planning, accidents can happen. Recognizing the warning signs of utility line damage can prevent injuries and further issues.
Warning Signs of Damage:
- Gas Lines: Hissing sounds, bubbling water, or a strong rotten egg smell indicate a natural gas leak.
- Electrical Lines: Power outages, sparks, or burn marks signal a damaged power line.
- Water Lines: Pools of water or soggy ground suggest a leaking water main.
What to Do If You Hit a Utility Line:
- Stop digging immediately.
- Move to a safe area and warn others.
- Call the proper authorities or your local utility company.
- If a gas line is damaged, evacuate the area and call emergency services.
Never attempt to fix a damaged utility line yourself. Utility companies have trained professionals who can safely handle the situation.
Step 6: Restore the Worksite Safely
Once excavation is complete, take precautions to restore the area without disrupting the underground utility lines.
Final Safety Measures:
- Backfill the hole carefully to avoid putting excess pressure on exposed pipes or cables.
- Compact the soil gradually to prevent shifting or future damage to utility infrastructure.
- Mark the area for future reference in case additional work is needed later.
By following these steps, you can ensure your project is completed safely while preserving essential utility services.
Raising Awareness About Safe Digging
Educating homeowners, contractors, and workers about safe excavation practices is crucial for community safety. Raising awareness helps:
- Reduce the risk of accidental damage.
- Prevent injuries caused by utility line strikes.
- Ensure compliance with excavation safety regulations.
Utility companies, municipalities, and construction firms should provide training and distribute information about the importance of calling before you dig.
Conclusion: Digging Safely Protects Everyone
Digging around buried utilities requires careful planning, adherence to safety guidelines, and coordination with utility companies. By calling 811, following proper excavation techniques, and maintaining a safe distance from underground utility lines, you can complete your project while ensuring the safety of workers, infrastructure, and the community.
Remember: Safe digging is smart digging. Always call before you dig and follow these essential steps to prevent utility line damage and keep your worksite accident-free.
