Recently I’ve been noticing a lot of digging in areas which were recently dug up – this is super inefficient and increases the risk of damages. Uncoordinated digging can lead to costly mistakes, public inconvenience, and safety hazards. By fostering communication, leveraging technology, and sharing data, we can manage underground utilities more efficiently and ensure the safety of our communities. …

Natural disasters are an ever-present threat to both people and infrastructure. Hurricane Helene is a stark reminder of the destruction such events can inflict, with widespread utility outages and damage to critical services. As communities recover, the swift mobilization of crews and the safe restoration of power, water, and communication systems become top priorities. However, as we look to the …

I recently came across this article about Lumos Fiber being banned from digging in a community due to repeated utility strikes and damage. As I read through it, I couldn’t help but wonder – what would I do if I were in that company’s shoes? How would I respond to being banned from working in an area because of damage …

The ability to prevent damage to underground infrastructure hinges on both technical expertise and practical experience. On-the-job learning plays an indispensable role in bridging the gap between formal training and real-world application. Locators who engage in continuous learning on the job are better equipped to navigate the specific challenges of their work environment, such as identifying subtle variations in soil …

Effective and transparent communication is the backbone of safety in the utility industry. In an environment where small oversights can have catastrophic consequences, ensuring that all stakeholders – from utility companies and contractors to locators and excavators – are aligned is paramount. Too often, preventable accidents occur due to gaps in communication, leading to service disruptions, costly repairs, and even …

I’ve been using DuoLingo a bit recently and it’s been bringing out my competitive side. I don’t like droppoing out of the leaderboard and I’m not going to let my streak go! I was thinking about how we could apply some of these strategies to our industry and what we might gain from it. To address the damage prevention industry’s …

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) is often hailed as a game-changer in the realm of infrastructure projects, and for good reason. The minimal upfront investment in SUE sets the stage for substantial economic returns over the lifespan of the project. The precise mapping and identification of underground utilities facilitated by SUE not only averts unforeseen interruptions that can throw timelines off …

Last Friday, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird announced a settlement with MidAmerican, Mediacom, and CenturyLink over violations of Iowa’s One Call law. The One Call law, crucial for the safety of both workers and underground utilities, mandates that anyone engaging in digging, excavating, or trenching activities must first contact the Iowa One Call center to locate and avoid damaging underground …

The summer months are particularly challenging for utility locating companies, as the peak construction and excavation season increases the risks to underground utilities and the health of workers. Creating a safe and efficient working environment for utility locators requires more than just adhering to standard practices; it demands a strategic approach to planning, communication, and worker safety, particularly in the …

Predictive analytics represents a crucial application of artificial intelligence (AI) in our industry, harnessing the power of data to drive insights and optimize decision-making processes. As we delve deeper into the complexities of underground utility management, the importance of accurate and timely information cannot be overstated. The better quality data we can gather from various sources, such as historical records, …