A Friendly Reminder:
Understanding Limitations in Utility Depth Information with Missouri 811
Missouri 811 plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of excavation projects by providing vital information on the location of underground utilities. While the service is indispensable, it is crucial for excavators to be aware that Missouri 811 does not possess information regarding the depth of each utility and consequently, cannot advise on safe excavation depths around these utilities.
Utility depths can significantly vary due to erosion, human interventions, and changes in the landscape, leading to possible discrepancies in their estimated and actual positions below the ground. Missouri 811’s primary role is to assist in informing the proper utility owners about the presence and location of utilities to prevent damages, ensuring the safety of both the community and workers involved in excavation projects. To mitigate the risks associated with unknown utility depths, excavators are encouraged to employ safe digging practices and cautiously approach all projects. Adopting a proactive approach, such as hand digging or potholing techniques when close to marked utilities, is crucial to avoid unintended damages and ensuing complications.
Missouri 811 is committed to fostering safe excavation practices by communicating with utility companies that will be providing accurate information on the location of underground utilities. However, excavators need to be cognizant of the limitations in utility depth information and undertake adequate precautions to maintain the safety of all stakeholders. By staying informed and incorporating proven excavation methods, we can collectively ensure the protection of our communities and the extensive network of underground utilities traversing them.