April is Safe Digging Month

April is Safe Digging Month: TPUC Urges Citizens to Call 811 Before Digging  

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Public Utility Commission (TPUC) is urging citizens and businesses to call 811 before beginning any outdoor digging projects, as part of National Safe Digging Month during the month of April.
 
New data from the Common Ground Alliance show that nearly three in four American homeowners (74 percent) plan to complete outdoor digging projects in the next 12 months, representing more than 60 million households. However, an estimated 10 million Americans plan to skip contacting 811 before digging, putting themselves and their communities at risk.

TPUC and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration jointly have authority over miles of underground pipelines – many of which are just below the surface – to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of essential utility services to households and businesses across the state. Disruption of these services by not calling 811 could severely impact the state’s economy.

“The spring season is planting season along with outdoor projects, all of which can result in hitting buried utility lines. Because of this we strongly urge anyone undertaking outdoor residential or business projects to call 811 beforehand no matter the size of the project. Because the costs of striking and damaging underground gas, electric, water and sewer lines can reach billions of dollars annually. A quick call to 811 can help prevent these issues and avoid serious health risks,” says TPUC Chairman David Jones.

According to CGA, many homeowners fail to contact 811 because they believe their projects are too shallow or are unfamiliar with the process. However, reaching out to 811 a few days before digging allows professional locators to mark the approximate location of underground lines, helping to ensure projects can proceed safely.

The TPUC will continue to raise awareness about safe digging throughout the month. For additional information on safe digging in Tennessee visit www.tenn811.com

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