With Memorial Day weekend around the corner, we know our members are dreaming up some big outdoor projects! As you plan your project, be sure to follow these five steps for safe digging.
Plan your project
Before you contact Indiana 811, you will need to know specific details about where you plan to dig, including the address, nearest intersecting street, and exact location on the property. Mark the designated area with white paint so the utility operators know where you plan to excavate.
Contact Indiana 811
You can request underground utility markings online or by phone by calling 811. You will be given a ticket number and a list of all the member utilities that will be notified.
Wait for the marks
Contact 811 at least two business days before excavation to give the utility companies enough time to mark the location of their underground utilities. Each line is marked in the color that corresponds to the appropriate utility.
Confirm the marks
Once the two full working days have passed, confirm that all utility companies have visited the property by comparing the various colors of the marks to the list of utilities provided by Indiana 811.
If the utility's lines are not within the designated area, you will be notified. The method of notification is up to the utility operator or contractor locator. For example, if a gas line is not in conflict, you may see the word “OK” with yellow paint in the designated area.
Dig with care
Now that the utility lines are marked, you can begin digging with care. It's crucial to only dig with hand tools inside the tolerance zone.
Learn more safe digging tips by visiting indiana811.org.
