Press Release

PUC, PA One Call, Columbia Gas, York Water Promote Safe Digging Month

Published on 4/10/2012

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – Emphasizing the importance of safe digging during summer projects, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), Pennsylvania One Call System Inc. (PA One Call) Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and The York Water Co. today reminded utilities, residents and contractors to use safe digging practices.

“Whether you are a utility, a contractor, or a do-it-yourselfer, smart digging means calling 8-1-1 before each job,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson.  “Calling 8-1-1 at least three business days before you want to begin work is a simple procedure to ensure your own safety and the safety of the entire community.”

Commission Vice Chairman John F. Coleman said: “The PUC is responsible for enforcing federal and state pipeline safety regulations in the state. We investigate incidents where natural gas or water lines have been damaged such as a hit during an outdoor project that requires digging. These line hits are the number one cause of natural gas and water line failures in the state.”

PUC Commissioner Wayne E. Gardner added: “We are here today to urge everyone with a project that involves digging to be sure to call 8-1-1. Whether the project is simple or more involved, one phone call can ensure your safety as well as that of your neighbors and the community.”

PUC Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer said: “Part of the PUC’s mission is to ensure not only reliable utility service but safe utility service. Working to ensure utilities, contractors and homeowners all know the rule to “Know What’s Below. Call Before You Dig.” means service is not interrupted and serious injuries can be avoided.”

Bill Kiger, President and Executive Director, Pennsylvania One Call System Inc., added, “Are you installing a new fence or deck?  Replacing your mailbox post?  Dial 8-1-1 at least three business days before you dig.  Utility companies will mark their underground lines, so you know what’s below before you dig.  Dial 8-1-1.”

“Calling 811 before digging gives us the opportunity to mark our gas lines and prevent a potentially dangerous situation, as well as saving homeowners and contractors potentially costly repair bills,” said Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania Acting President Mark Kempic. “No project is too large or small, we urge everyone to call 811 if any digging is involved in their spring outdoor projects.”

“Springtime is the perfect reminder to Dial 8-1-1”, according to Jeff Hines, President and CEO of The York Water Co. “As you consider any excavation, call 8-1-1 three days before you dig or you may risk loss of utility service, expensive damage to your property, and even severe injury or loss of life. Play it safe: Call before you dig.”

 The PUC Commissioners joined PA One Call, Columbia Gas and York Water at an active excavation site on East Princess Street, York. 

In Pennsylvania, utilities, contractors and homeowners are required by law to call 8-1-1 at least three business days before using power equipment to make certain underground utility lines are marked.  The PUC provided the regulatory support needed to allow Pennsylvania to join the nation with 8-1-1 abbreviated dialing.  An informational brochure on the “Know What’s Below.  Call 8-1-1 before you dig” campaign is also available on the PUC website under the Consumer Education link.

Pennsylvania One Call System Inc. is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit corporation established in 1972.  Their purpose is to prevent damage to underground facilities.  To promote safety, they provide an efficient, cost-effective communications network among designers, excavators, and facility owners.  Before digging begins, PA One Call facilitates contact between those wishing to excavate a particular location with the owners and operators of underground facilities nearby, including public utilities.  All excavators and residents must contact PA One Call at least three business days prior to excavation, as required by law.  The service is offered at no cost to homeowners.  For more information, please visit www.PaOneCall.org.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner. For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

###

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov