Excavator Operator Study Guide - Dig Safe

Dig Safe Overview

• Dig Safe® is a not-for-profit organization facilitating communication between excavators and utility companies regarding excavation projects.
• It offers a free service to notify relevant utilities for marking underground lines.

Contact Information

• Dig Safe phone number: 811 or 1888-DIG-SAFE.

Notification Requirements

• Advance notice for excavation must be given at least 72 hours prior, excluding weekends and holidays.
• Emergency notifications are required as soon as possible, with no emergency ticket needed unless it is a true emergency.

Definition of Excavation

• Excavation involves earth movement or removal by powered equipment, excluding human or animal-powered tools and agricultural tilling.

Marking and Premarking

• Premarking the excavation area is essential using white paint, flags, or stakes, with the company's identification included.
• A single stake can be used to mark smaller excavation sites (50' radius or less), detailing the excavator's name and site radius.

Ticket Management

• Dig Safe tickets expire if excavation does not begin within 30 days and should not be renewed unnecessarily.
• Obligation to maintain utility marks at the excavation site falls on the excavator.

Safety Protocols

• Take special care to identify and respect any underground facility marking changes and maintain clear visibility of marks during the excavation.
• If markings are compromised, establish offset marks and communicate with all personnel involved.

Gas Leak Recognition

• Gas leaks can be detected by smell (distinctive odor added for safety), sight (white clouds, dying vegetation), or sound (roaring, hissing noise).
• In case of a suspected gas leak, evacuate the area and call 911, avoiding actions that could ignite gas.

Pipeline Safety Measures

• Pipeline safety includes coordination with One Call Centers, comprehensive inspections, workforce qualifications, and public education on excavatory safety.

Markers and Color Coding

• Pipeline markers indicate the transported material, utility operator identity, and emergency contact information but should not replace notifying Dig Safe.
• Color coding system for utility types:
  • Yellow: Gas, Oil, Steam, Petroleum
  • Orange: Communication lines
  • Blue: Potable Water
  • Green: Sewers and Drain Lines
  • Purple: Temporary Survey Markings
  • Pink: Proposed Excavation

Perfect Excavation Procedure

• Steps include site marking, filling out the Locate Request Form, notifying Dig Safe, and ensuring ongoing communication and compliance with safety protocols throughout the excavation process.

Test your knowledge with flashcards on the Dig Safe® program, an essential resource for excavators to ensure safe digging practices. This guide provides key definitions and insights into the communication process between excavators and utility companies. Prepare yourself for successful and safe excavation projects.