National Safe Digging Month

April is National Safe Digging Month: Why It Matters

The month-long observance is sponsored by the Common Ground Alliance (CGA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing damage to underground utilities and promoting safety in excavation work.

The CGA launched the national awareness campaign to encourage homeowners, contractors, and anyone planning to dig to call 811 before digging. Calling 811 is a free and easy way to ensure that you don't accidentally damage underground utilities, such as gas, electric, and cable lines, which can result in costly repairs, disruptions in service, and even serious injuries or fatalities.

Here are some key reasons why safe digging matters:

Protecting Yourself and Your Community

Digging without knowing what's underground can be dangerous. Hitting a gas line, for example, can cause an explosion, while hitting an electrical line can cause electrocution. Not only are you putting yourself at risk, but you're also endangering your community. A single accident can cause widespread power outages, gas leaks, or water main breaks that can affect entire neighborhoods.

Preventing Costly Damage

Digging without calling 811 can also result in costly repairs. Repairing underground utilities can be expensive, and you may be liable for the costs if you damage a line. Even worse, you may be fined for violating state or local regulations on excavation. By taking the time to call 811 before digging, you can prevent these unnecessary expenses and protect your wallet.

Saving Time and Hassle

If you damage a utility line, you may have to wait for repairs to be made before you can continue your project. This can cause delays and frustration, especially if you're on a tight timeline. By calling 811 before digging, you can avoid these hassles and ensure that your project goes smoothly.

Doing Your Part for the Environment

Digging without knowing what's underground can also harm the environment. A gas leak, for example, can release harmful chemicals into the air, while a water main break can waste precious resources. By practicing safe digging techniques, you're doing your part to preserve the environment for future generations.

In conclusion, National Safe Digging Month is an important reminder to call 811 before digging. By doing so, you're not only protecting yourself, but also your community, your wallet, and the environment. So before you break ground on your next project, take a few minutes to make the call – it could save you a lot of time, money, and hassle in the long run.

Check out the CGA website. They have plenty of free resources, including toolkits and videos, that you can use during National Safe Digging Month and beyond. Popular topics include:

• 811 Tips for Facility Owners
• Incident and Disaster Response
• Efficient Use of 811 for Professional Excavators

The CGA also offers a Best Practices Guide called The Definitive Guide for Underground Safety & Damage Prevention. Safe digging!