TOPEKA, Kan. – August 11, also known as 811 Day, serves as a reminder for Kansans to safely partake in digging practices to prevent possible underground utility damage.
Kansas Gas Service said many communities in Kansas are experiencing growth with the additions of new homes, businesses, and commercial development. In the second quarter of 2023, the Kansas economy grew by 7.4%, which is the second-fastest rate in the nation. The Kansas economy then grew another 9.7% in the 3rd quarter of 2023, which is the fastest rate in the nation for that time period. With this growth comes a need for new housing and facilities, meaning more digging projects, according to the release.
“In 2023, 14% of excavation damages reported in Kansas were due to failure to contact 811. Our damage prevention team is available to meet with businesses involved in any large-scale or unusual projects to assist them in making informed decisions while working around our facilities,” Dawn Tripp, Manager of Public Relations for Kansas Gas Service said.
Tripp said the most frequent underground utilities that impacted during digging include natural gas pipelines, electric cables, and water lines.
Damaging these underground lines could lead to expensive repairs and project delays.
“Accidentally striking a natural gas pipeline could be dangerous and interrupt natural gas service. To prevent injury, damage, and service outages, underground utility lines must be identified and marked before any digging project begins,” Tripp said.
The Kansas Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act, which was revised in 2023, states that there is a maximum of 20 calendar days for a notice for a request to excavate and requires excavators to immediately notify underground facility operators if contact or damage has been made to an underground facility.
“Recent changes in the Kansas Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act (KUUDPA) extended time to excavate under existing locate marks from 15 to 20 days. Excavators are also now required to call 811 in addition to 911 and the utility operator to report any damages. This additional notification helps track damages for the state’s damage prevention efforts,” Tripp said.
By contacting 811, callers will be connected to a local center, which will notify utility companies about the caller’s possible digging plans. Professional locators are sent to the requested dig site to mark locations of underground lines by using flags and spray paint, all at no cost to the caller.
Kansas Gas Service also recommends additional steps to ensure a safer digging experience, which include calling 811 at least two days in advance, verifying that markings are completed, and respecting a 24-inch area on either side of the marks.
“At Kansas Gas Service, the safety and well-being of the communities we serve is our highest priority. That’s why we’re committed to being a dependable resource for all our customers, including businesses,” Tripp said.
