Things that make you say “hmm…”
After being in the damage prevention business for 39 years, I still struggle with why someone would not call 811 before digging. The call or click is free, the service is available 7x24, all information is recorded and documented, and it’s the law. Yet, we still have excavators for various reasons who make the decision not to contact 811. I can assure you that we have heard all the excuses: I know where everything is, I am only going a few inches deep, I don’t have time to wait. Not one of these is justifiable not to take the time and do what is necessary to protect the underground facilities and your workers.
With this issue’s theme being trench safety, I am shocked in a very similar way that we still have trench cave-ins occurring with all the awareness and influence of safety. I can only assume the list of excuses for not properly shoring a ditch is just as ridiculous as not calling 811 before digging. I wish we could solve both issues with the wave of a wand, but unfortunately that wand doesn’t exist. Therefore, it is up to each of us to continue to promote and demand better safety for our excavating community.
Tennessee 811 is always available to present the 811 message and give people a better understanding of the law and what they can do to prevent damaging underground facilities and keep employees safe. Although Tennessee 811 does not claim to be an expert in trench safety and shoring, our network is broad, and we can certainly point you in the right direction for proper training.
Thank you to everyone who plays a part in damage prevention. We see you and respect everything you do to make Tennessee a safer place.