Working on a construction site or planning any excavation project without first locating underground utilities is like driving blindfolded—it’s dangerous, costly, and potentially life-threatening. At On The Mark Locators, LLC, we specialize in professional underground utility locating services to ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency in all your ground disturbance activities.
In this blog, we’re sharing essential safety tips to follow when working near buried utilities. Whether you’re a contractor, engineer, or homeowner planning a dig, understanding these practices can help prevent accidents, avoid fines, and keep your project on track.
Why Underground Utility Locating Is Crucial
Across the U.S., thousands of underground utilities are damaged each year due to excavation without proper locating. These utilities include:
- Electrical lines
- Gas and oil pipelines
- Water mains
- Sewer systems
- Telecommunication cables
- Fiber optic lines
Hitting any of these can cause outages, injuries, environmental hazards, and legal consequences. Even a seemingly minor incident can trigger a chain reaction of delays, repairs, and safety investigations.
That’s where On The Mark Locators, LLC comes in. Our team uses advanced detection equipment and proven techniques to mark utilities accurately, helping you dig with confidence.
1. Call Before You Dig – Always
Before breaking ground, the first and most important step is to contact 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” service. This free service notifies utility companies to mark their lines on your site.
However, 811 doesn’t always cover private utilities—such as lines running from the meter to a house, irrigation systems, or lines on commercial property. That’s why hiring a private locating company like On The Mark Locators, LLC is critical for a complete and accurate assessment.
Tip: Make the call at least 2–3 business days before you plan to start digging.
2. Hire a Professional Utility Locator
While 811 is a good starting point, it often doesn’t go far enough. Utility lines can be misidentified, shallow, or improperly marked. A professional locating company like ours provides precise mapping using methods such as:
- Electromagnetic locating
- Ground penetrating radar (GPR)
- GPS mapping
- Utility mapping software
We go beyond surface-level markings and ensure all utilities—public and private—are accounted for. This reduces the risk of errors and increases job site safety.
3. Understand the Color Code System
Utility locators use a standardized color code to mark different types of buried services. Familiarizing yourself with these colors can help you identify what’s beneath your feet:
- Red: Electric power lines
- Yellow: Gas, oil, steam, petroleum
- Orange: Communications, cable TV, telephone
- Blue: Potable water
- Green: Sewers and drain lines
- Purple: Reclaimed water, irrigation
- White: Proposed excavation
- Pink: Temporary survey markings
Never dig through or ignore these markings. If a mark is faded or unclear, call the locator back to refresh it before digging.
4. Maintain the Marks
Once utility lines are marked, it’s your responsibility to preserve the markings. Rain, foot traffic, or vehicle movement can obscure paint and flags. If the marks are compromised, stop work and request a re-marking.
Use construction barriers or cones to protect marked areas. Also, document the location with photos or GPS coordinates in case they need to be referenced later.
5. Use Hand Tools When Close to Utilities
Even after locating, when you’re within 18–24 inches of a marked utility, ditch the heavy machinery. Use hand tools such as shovels or vacuum excavation systems to expose the utility line carefully.
Avoid using picks or sharp-edged tools that could puncture a line. Take your time, work methodically, and watch for signs of the utility like changes in soil or unexpected resistance.
6. Communicate with Everyone on Site
Excavation safety is a team effort. Make sure everyone on site understands the utility markings, the location of lines, and the procedures for digging near them.
Hold a pre-excavation safety meeting to review the locate report and answer any questions. Communication reduces errors and ensures everyone is aware of the risks.
7. Stay Up to Date on Local Regulations
Utility locating and excavation laws vary by state and locality. For example, California has strict regulations under the Dig Safe Act, requiring specific timelines and responsibilities for excavators and utility companies.
On The Mark Locators, LLC stays compliant with all state and local regulations so you don’t have to worry. We’ll make sure all documentation and procedures meet the requirements to avoid fines and legal liabilities.
8. Don’t Rely on Old Maps or Assumptions
Never assume that old building plans, utility schematics, or visual clues like utility boxes provide accurate or up-to-date information. Infrastructure changes over time, and undocumented lines may exist.
Modern technology allows us to detect even hidden or unmapped utilities. Rely on real-time locating rather than outdated information.
9. Keep Records of the Locate
After the job is done, save all records of the utility locate—including reports, maps, photos, and communication with 811 or private locators. These records can protect you in case of a dispute or damage claim.
Our team provides clients with detailed reports and digital maps for easy access and documentation.
10. Partner with a Trusted Locator
Not all utility locating companies are created equal. Look for a team that’s experienced, certified, and equipped with advanced technology. At On The Mark Locators, LLC, we pride ourselves on precision, professionalism, and outstanding service.
We serve contractors, engineers, utility companies, municipalities, and private property owners across the region. Our goal is simple: Keep you safe and your project running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Underground utility locating isn’t just a step in your process—it’s a safety imperative. From preventing utility strikes to protecting lives and property, a thorough locate sets the foundation for a successful project.
When you work with On The Mark Locators, LLC, you’re partnering with a team that’s “on the mark” every time. Don’t leave it to chance—locate before you excavate.
