Clean-burning natural gas provided by energy companies like Triple Diamond Energy Corp. is one of the safest energy sources available. But like any form of fuel, mining, delivery, and storage of it is not without risks.  One of the most potent and powerful dangers does not arise because of the flammable nature  gas itself, but because of the unintended carelessness of constructions crew who begin excavation without becoming fully aware of the proximity of underground natural gas mains running near their dig sites. 

The ‘One Call’ Law

These very preventable accidents could be avoided simply by adhering to the federal safety standards in place to ensure digging does not occur near underground lines. Individual states already have a measure of protection in a special measure called the “One Call” law.  This law requires any individual or company planning to perform excavation to contact the state One Call center at least two full days before the digging begins.

Once the One Call center is notified of the plans for excavation, an agent of the center travels to the dig site and marks the location of underground pipes and power lines so that the diggers can be sure to stay well away from those area.  It is likely that you have already seen “Call Before You Dig” signs along the side of the road at various times – these signs direct you to the One Call hotline.  Companies such as Triple Diamond Energy Corp. appreciate the simplicity of this free service that protects both the construction company and the public’s interests as well.

The Consequences of Unchecked Digging

The One Call centers in each state receive thousands of calls a month from excavators, preventing an untold number of accidents and disasters in the process.  But as simple as the One Call system is, however, it is frequently ignored – at great cost to both property and human life.  News stations all too often must report the consequences of unchecked digging, and the results are disheartening.  From damaged pipelines causing service outages to explosions that kill construction workers and ruin the finances of construction companies, the cost of ignoring the One Call laws is real and substantial.

To address this problematic situation in 2006 the government passed the federal PIPES Act (Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and Safety) and expanded the reach of the One Call laws.  This legislation increases the enforcement authority of the One Call system and allows the Department of Transportation greater authority to assess fines and penalties against companies which fail to adhere to the laws.  It also increases penalties to companies who fail to accurately and promptly report damage to pipelines caused by their excavation activities that may endanger people of present a risk of bodily harm.

Checking Before Digging Saves Lives

Over the last two decades the number of reported accidents has dropped by just over a quarter thanks to these important and effective laws.  Energy companies such as Triple Diamond Energy Corp. strongly support the increasing enforcement of the One Call system and applaud the increased public safety such regulations bring to each city and state.