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, …
Imagine walking into a restaurant and telling the chef, “I’m hungry. Can you make me something?” Without any specifics, the chef embarks on a culinary adventure, asking numerous questions about your preferences, allergies, and dietary restrictions. They ponder the ingredients available, the season, and even recall your past visits. After much deliberation and several taste tests, the chef finally serves …
USIC announced this week a partnership with the U.S. Army Reserve’s P3O Program where they would provide employment opportunities to veterans. I think this is a big win-win for everyone involved and I wanted to highlight it this week in my article. Every year I hear about high turnover in the industry and issues finding good staff. This seems like …