Berkshire Gas: Call Dig Safe Before Starting Any Digging Project
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — In recognition of National Safe Digging Month this April, Berkshire Gas, a subsidiary of Avangrid, Inc., is reminding customers that state law requires contacting Dig Safe prior to any excavation activity.
The company is stressing the importance of marking underground utilities, even for small jobs like fence posts or mailboxes, to help prevent damage and keep everyone safe.
"Calling 811 before digging is one of the easiest ways customers can protect themselves and their communities," said Charlotte Ancel, President and COO of Berkshire Gas. "Doing so allows underground utilities to be marked in advance, helping projects move forward safely while protecting critical infrastructure. Keeping our communities safe is a top priority, and educating customers about this simple step is essential to preventing injuries and service disruptions."
Berkshire Gas emphasizes the importance of using this free service to help reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and costly repairs. Incidents caused by third?party damage to underground natural gas and electric facilities can pose serious safety risks and disrupt essential utility services. Many of these incidents are preventable by contacting Dig Safe and ensuring utilities are properly marked before work begins.
Call 811 or 888-DIG-SAFE (888.344.7233) and visit Digsafe.com for more information. State laws require anyone who digs to notify utility companies at least 3 business days (72 hours) before starting. Once a request is received, representatives from local utility companies will visit the property to identify and mark underground utilities using color?coded paint, flags, or stakes.
Tips for a safer digging project include:
- Plan for gas utility conflicts as part of all underground construction.
- Mark out the area of construction.
- Properly notify the not-for-profit clearinghouse Dig Safe at 888.344.7233.
- Provide adequate training and supervision on a job site to ensure that good construction practices are followed.
- Properly maintain all underground utilities markings.
- Hand dig around underground gas facilities in accordance with dig safe requirements.
- Provide adequate protection and support for gas facilities.
- Notify the gas company if a gas facility is damaged or disturbed so they can make repairs if required.
- Use and properly install suitable backfill material around gas facilities.
For more information on safety, visit Safety - BGC.
For gas emergencies or to report damage, contact:
- Berkshire Gas: 800.292.5012 (Berkshire Gas Emergency Number)
In the event of an immediate threat to life or safety, call 911.
