Before embarking on any excavation project, it is essential to prioritize safety. In Michigan, the utility companies, such as Michigan Gas Utilities, provide a list of outdoor safety tips to ensure a safe excavation process. One crucial step is to call 811 or visit missdig811. org at least three business days prior to starting the project.
This allows the utility companies to mark underground pipes and facilities, which will be visible to you and other workers. This step is mandated by state law. During the excavation process, it's vital to maintain clear access for safety inspections and ensure that right-of-way areas are free from trees and other obstructions.
Familiarize yourself with Michigan's color-coded system for identifying underground utility lines: red for electric, yellow for gas, oil, steam, or petroleum, orange for communications systems... blue for potable water, purple for reclaimed water irrigation, green for sewer and drain lines, white for proposed excavation, and pink for temporary surveying.
Be aware of potential gas leaks, which may be indicated by a strong odor, hissing sound, "or brown grass," "plants.".. or shrubs.
As we navigate a network of underground facilities, it is crucial to remain vigilant. In both rural and urban landscapes, pipes and wires can be found in seemingly innocuous locations, "such as streets and highways," "or even beneath the very foundations of our homes and businesses." The National Pipe and Tube Manufacturers Association (NPMTA) provides an exhaustive repository of information on these facilities... accessible through the npms. Source: Found here
Digging Deep
A Primer on Underground Utility Safety The earth beneath our feet hums with unseen activity. It's a silent, buried world of pipes and cables, vital to our modern existence yet easily disrupted by a misplaced shovel or the teeth of a backhoe. Whether you're planting a sapling in your backyard, erecting a fence, or embarking on a major construction project, understanding the importance of underground utility safety is paramount.
It's not just a good idea; in many jurisdictions, it's the law. Navigating this subterranean labyrinth requires diligence and a commitment to prevention. Damage to underground utilities can have devastating consequences, ranging from power outages and gas leaks to serious injury and even loss of life. The cost of repair, both financial and environmental, can be substantial.
Fortunately, readily available resources and established protocols exist to mitigate these risks. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind before you break ground:
Always Call Before You Dig
This is the golden rule. Dialing 811 connects you to your local One-Call center, which will notify affected utility companies to mark the approximate location of their buried lines.
This service is typically free of charge. Allow sufficient time for the utilities to respond to your request before starting your project.
Understand the Markings
Utility markings are typically color-coded to indicate the type of underground facility. For example, red often signifies electric power lines, yellow indicates gas lines, and blue typically represents water.
Familiarize yourself with the standard color codes in your region to properly identify the utilities in your dig area.
Dig With Care
Once the utilities have been marked, proceed with caution. Hand-digging within a designated "tolerance zone" around marked lines is generally recommended. This helps to minimize the risk of inadvertently striking a buried facility.
Be aware that the markings indicate the *approximate* location, and the actual position of the utility may vary.
Be Aware of Unusual Locations
While utilities are commonly found along streets and highways, they can also be located in unexpected places. Never assume you know where underground lines are located.
Always call before you dig, regardless of the size or location of your project.
Know Your Resources
Organizations like the National Pipe and Tube Manufacturers Association (NPMTA) offer valuable information on underground utilities and safety practices. Utilize these resources to expand your knowledge and stay informed about best practices in your industry.
