The Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program is bringing $1.7 billion in funds to expand reliable access to the internet to all Missourians, especially areas that have been previously unable to obtain internet access. With the influx of fiber lines to be installed throughout the state, the role of safe digging becomes even more crucial. As contractors are awarded jobs for installing the fiber lines and begin excavation, the financial and legal implications become quite significant. In an effort to reduce the risks of financial and legal liability for internet service providers, Missouri 811 offers a variety of training options for excavators at no cost. These training options include online and in-person training. The topics covered throughout these training sessions include: One Call law, Missouri’s rules and regulations, marking standards, industry best practices, excavation safety and more.
The BEAD program is a great opportunity for Missourians across the state to have access to the internet, which has the potential to help many achieve their educational and business goals. However, the success of this program hinges greatly on these fiber lines being installed safely and without damage to existing buried utilities. By ensuring that all excavators are trained in safe and effective excavation practices, Missouri 811 is helping to ensure existing buried utilities remain functional and undamaged, as well as encouraging more efficient and timely installation of this valuable infrastructure.
To learn more about the crucial educational opportunities offered by Missouri 811, visit our website at https://missouri-811.org/ and navigate to the Field Education & Training dropdown. From here you can select “Learning Management System” to access the online courses, or “Request Training” to inquire about options for in-person training sessions. Together we can help Missouri reach its goals, and keep valuable infrastructure from being damaged. Safe digging starts with you.