Unearthing the Secret- The Number to Call Before Every Excavation

What number do you call before digging? This is a question that often arises when individuals or businesses are planning any type of excavation project. Whether it’s for construction, landscaping, or any other reason, contacting the appropriate authorities before starting any digging work is crucial for safety and legal compliance. In this article, we will explore the importance of making this call and the potential consequences of ignoring it.

Before we delve into the details, it’s essential to understand why this call is necessary. When you dig into the ground, you may inadvertently hit underground utilities such as gas lines, water pipes, or electrical cables. These utilities are often located beneath the surface, and their presence can be a significant risk to both the workers and the public. Additionally, hitting these utilities can lead to costly repairs, legal issues, and even injuries or fatalities.

So, what number do you call before digging? The answer depends on your location, but in most countries, there is a national or regional one-call notification system in place. In the United States, for example, the national number to call is 811. This number connects you with the local utility companies, who will then mark the location of their underground utilities in the area where you plan to dig. This process is known as “locating” and is a critical step in ensuring the safety of your project.

When you call 811, you will be asked to provide some information about your project, such as the type of work you plan to do, the location, and the date you plan to start digging. The utility companies will then schedule a time to come out and mark the location of their utilities. This process typically takes a few days, so it’s important to plan ahead and make the call well in advance of your intended start date.

Once the utilities have been located and marked, you can proceed with your digging project with confidence, knowing that the risk of hitting an underground utility has been significantly reduced. However, it’s important to remember that this process is not foolproof. Even with marked utilities, it’s still possible to hit an underground utility, so it’s crucial to exercise caution and follow all safety protocols during the excavation process.

Ignoring the call before digging can have serious consequences. Besides the potential for injuries and property damage, you may also face fines, legal action, and even the suspension of your construction project. Moreover, the cost of repairing damaged utilities can be substantial, and these expenses are often the responsibility of the party that caused the damage.

In conclusion, the answer to the question “What number do you call before digging?” is 811 or the equivalent number in your country. Calling this number and following the proper procedures is essential for the safety of your project, the well-being of your workers, and the protection of the public. Always remember to make this call well in advance of your intended start date and to follow all safety guidelines throughout the excavation process.