First step to any Excavation project - Locating Utility Lines

Hold up - First we need to locate/survey

Digging or excavating can be a crucial part of many projects, whether you're installing a new fence, landscaping your yard, or beginning a construction project. However, it’s essential to approach this task with caution to avoid disturbing utility lines. Damaging these lines can cause significant service disruptions, safety hazards, and hefty repair costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you start your digging or excavating project safely in Calgary, with a focus on marking and locating utility lines in Alberta.

Oftentimes we're grabbing our shovels or firing up our excavators before coming to the somewhat frustrating realization - we forgot to do a ground survey!

I remember when I took on a simple gardening project - I felt a bit silly for for not knowing if I should call the city of Calgary to ask about utility lines, or just cross my fingers and assume this small area for my new bushes to plant was in fact safe. I mean, I was only planning to dig down about one foot at most in a small area of the yard, surely utility lines would be safely buried beyond a mere 12 inches? I remembered hearing some advertisements on the radio, and the phrase 'always call before you dig' stuck out to me. I'm glad I did call 3-1-1 to ask, who directed me to One Call Alberta and clickbeforeyoudig.com, because as it turns out many types of dangerous and not to mention 'expensive to fix' lines exist right under our feet.

Step 1: Plan Your Project

Before you pick up a shovel, plan your project thoroughly. Understand the scope of your digging and the specific areas where excavation will occur. This will help you communicate effectively with utility marking services.

Step 2: Contact Alberta One-Call

The next crucial step is to contact Alberta One-Call. This service is free and ensures that underground utilities are marked before you dig. You can reach Alberta One-Call by:

• Phone: Dial 1-800-242-3447

• Online: Visit their website at albertaonecall.com and submit a locate request.

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Information You'll Need to Provide

When you make a locate request, you'll need to provide the following information:

• Your name and contact information

• The address or location of the digging project

• A detailed description of the digging area

• The type of work you’ll be doing

• The start date of your project

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Step 3: Wait for Utility Marking

After submitting your request, Alberta One-Call will notify the utility companies that service your area. These companies will send locators to mark the location of their underground lines. The markings are usually color-coded to identify different types of utilities:

• Red: Electric power lines, cables, conduit, and lighting cables

• Yellow: Gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or gaseous materials

• Orange: Communication, alarm or signal lines, cables, or conduit

• Blue: Potable water

• Green: Sewers and drain lines
  

Locating Timeline

Typically, locators will come to mark the utilities within two to three business days. However, it’s advisable to wait for all utilities to be marked before starting any digging.

Step 4: Respect the Marks and Dig Safely

Once the utilities are marked, it’s crucial to respect these marks and dig carefully. Here are some tips:

• Hand Digging: Within one meter of either side of the marks, it’s recommended to use hand tools rather than power equipment. This reduces the risk of accidentally striking a utility line.

• Depth Variability: Remember that utility lines can vary in depth, so always dig cautiously even if you believe a line is deeper or shallower than expected.

• Potholing: For larger projects, consider potholing (digging test holes) to visually confirm the location of utilities.

Step 5: Maintain Communication

If your project will take an extended period, maintain communication with Alberta One-Call. Utility marks can fade or be disturbed over time, so you may need to request a remarking if your project is delayed.

Step 6: Educate Your Team

If you’re working with a team, ensure everyone is aware of the marked utility lines and understands the importance of careful digging. Regularly review safety procedures and the marked areas.

Step 7: Report Any Damage Immediately

Despite taking precautions, accidents can happen. If you accidentally damage a utility line, report it immediately to the utility provider and Alberta One-Call. Prompt reporting can mitigate dangers and allow for quick repairs.

Conclusion

Starting a safe digging or excavating project in Calgary requires careful planning and adherence to safety procedures. By contacting Alberta One-Call and respecting utility markings, you can significantly reduce the risk of disrupting essential services and ensure your project proceeds smoothly and safely. Always remember: safe digging is no accident.

For more information, you can visit Alberta One-Call or contact them directly to ensure your next project is both safe and successful.