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Understanding 811 in Columbus, Ohio
811, often referred to as “Call Before You Dig,” is a crucial service for anyone planning to excavate in Columbus, Ohio, or anywhere in the United States. It’s a free service that connects you to your local one-call center, which then notifies the appropriate utility companies about your intent to dig. These companies will then send representatives to mark the approximate locations of their underground lines, pipes, and cables, helping to prevent damage and injury.
Why Call 811 Before Digging in Columbus?
Digging without knowing the location of underground utilities can have serious consequences. Hitting a gas line can cause explosions and fires, while damaging electrical lines can lead to electrocution. Even striking a smaller utility line can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood. Calling 811 helps to protect yourself, your community, and the environment.
How Does 811 Work in Columbus, Ohio?
The process is simple. Before you begin any digging project, whether it’s planting a tree, installing a fence, or building a deck, you should call 811 at least two business days before you plan to start digging. The call is free, and the operator will ask for the location of your planned excavation. This information is then relayed to the relevant utility companies.
These utility companies will then send locators to your property to mark the approximate location of their underground facilities with colored paint or flags. Each color represents a different type of utility: red for electric, yellow for gas, orange for communications, blue for water, green for sewer, and white for proposed excavation route. Once the utilities have been marked, you can dig safely around them, taking care to avoid any contact. More information is available on Wikipedia about 811.
Penalties for Not Calling 811
In Ohio, as in many states, there are penalties for digging without calling 811. These penalties can include fines and liability for damages to underground utilities. Moreover, the potential for injury or even death is a far greater consequence. Avoid the risks and potential costs by simply making the call.
Safe Digging Practices After Calling 811
Once the utilities are marked, remember these safe digging practices:
- Respect the marks: The marks are approximate, so dig carefully around them.
- Hand dig within the tolerance zone: The tolerance zone is the area around the marked utility where you should only dig by hand.
- Backfill carefully: When you’re finished digging, backfill the excavation carefully to avoid damaging any utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 811 in Columbus
What happens if I hit a utility line while digging?
Immediately stop digging and evacuate the area. Report the damage to the utility company, regardless of how minor it seems. For gas leaks, call 911 or the gas company immediately.
How much does it cost to call 811?
Calling 811 is absolutely free.
How long are the utility markings valid?
Utility markings are typically valid for a specific period, often around 30 days. Check with your local one-call center to confirm the validity period in your area.
What information do I need to provide when I call 811?
You will need to provide the location of your digging site, including the street address, nearest intersecting streets, and a description of the work you plan to do.
What if I’m just digging in my own backyard? Do I still need to call 811?
Yes, it’s crucial to call 811 before any digging project, no matter how small or where it’s located on your property. You never know where underground utilities might be.
Summary
Calling 811 before you dig in Columbus, Ohio, is a simple yet vital step to ensure safety, prevent damage, and avoid potential penalties. By following this simple process, you can protect yourself, your community, and the environment.
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