OHIO811 Before You Dig

OHIO811 Before you dig

By Connie Hogue, Director of Human Resources and Safety

Is it time to build a fence for your new four-legged family member? Or perhaps you want to upgrade the backyard garden this year. Whatever the project, be sure to contact OHIO811 before a shovel hits the ground. This free step is critical for keeping you and your family safe. Hitting an underground utility line is extremely dangerous and can cause service disruptions for your neighbors and result in a significant financial penalty. Do not get yourself into a dangerous situation. Always contact OHIO811 before you dig.

April is National Safe Digging Month

Common Ground Alliance (CGA) is an organization committed to saving lives and preventing damage to the underground infrastructure in the United States. In 2008, CGA started National Safe Digging Month to further promote their important message. April was selected as safe digging month because it traditionally marks an increase in outdoor projects. National Safe Digging Month is a reminder for us to always contact OHIO811 before starting any digging project.

Did you know, everything you need to plan a digging project can be found on your mobile device? While you can still call 811 from your telephone, Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS) has other options available to you. The OHIO811 app gives you access to all the information and tools you need to plan a safe digging project. You can contact OHIO811 directly from the app. Contractors can find all the information they need in the app, including an excavator manual. You can search the status of your project in the ‘near ticket’ feature. With one click you can verify each of your utilities saw your request and marked their lines. The OHIO811 app is an excellent resource for homeowners and contractors alike.

OHIO811 First

Contact OHIO811 before you dig a new flowerbed, move your mailbox, or build a fence for that cute little puppy. There are many ways to contact OHIO811. You can call (dial 811). You can visit their website (www.oups.org). You can download their app (OHIO811). Be sure to pick one before your digging project begins.

Pro Tip: Ohio law dictates the person doing the digging must contact OHIO811. This means your contractor should be the one initiating the request. It does not mean, however, that you should assume they know where the lines are located. Do not allow work to begin before you see marked utility lines.

5 STEPS FOR SAFE DIGGING

1. CALL

Call 811 or make a request online two to three days before you plan to start your project.

2. WAIT

Wait two to three days for a response to your request. Affected utilities will mark underground lines.

3. CONFIRM

Confirm each utility has marked their lines before you dig.

4. RESPECT

Respect the markers and use them as a guide for the duration your project.

5. DIG CAREFULLY

If you can’t avoid digging near the provided markers, consider moving your project.

OHIO811's Sammy The Shovel

OHIO811.org