Call Before You Dig

Contractors, homeowners must dial 8-1-1 before excavating

Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) is reminding property owners and professional excavators that they must call PA One Call at 8-1-1 to locate and identify underground utility lines before they start excavation work.

"The truth is that this call is not only required under state law, but it is also an essential safety precaution," Senator Robbins said. "It is important to know if there are any underground cable, electrical, water, or gas lines in the area before a project is started."

If a property owner is doing the actual work, then it is the responsibility of that property owner to call 8-1-1. If the property owner has hired a contractor to do the work, the contractor must make the call.

Once the call is made, utility companies will visit the site to mark the location of their underground lines. It is important to respect the markings and excavation should be performed only after confirming that all utilities have marked the location of their lines. In addition, it is essential to remember that locating underground lines is an inexact science and location marks can range from 18 to 24 inches from the actual lines.

More information about PA One Call is available online at: www.paonecall.org

Contact:

Michael Hengst
(717) 787-1322