Dangerous assumptions that can impact your project

The presence or lack of marks only gives you part of the story

One of the most overlooked parts of the 811 process is using and regularly checking Positive Response — yet it’s one of the most important tools for safety and communication between excavators and utility owners. Positive Response provides real-time information you need to know before you dig.

Excavators: Never assume a site is clear because no marks are visible. Checking the positive responses could clarify that the utility needs you to clarify the area to be marked or couldn’t access the dig site. Finding this out early may help you start digging on time and avoid waiting for marks on cleared facilities.

On the flip side, if you see marks, don’t start digging without checking Positive Response first. First, verify that the positive response codes match what you see at the dig site. If you see any inconsistencies such as permanent marks near an area coded as clear, marks placed where digging isn’t planned, or marks missing for facilities coded as marked, you’ll need to do a little investigating.

Don’t assume. Don’t guess. Don’t risk it.
Without a Positive Response, you’re digging blind.

3 other quick tips

• If someone in your office verifies Positive Response, you simply must commit to having that individual update the supervisor or others in the field. If the responses don’t get to your in-the-field crew – and subcontractors daily, you put your project at risk. Don’t let that happen.

• Remember, responses can change. Get the most updated information by visiting my.sunshine811.com and clicking Check Responses. Contact the utility directly if anything doesn’t look correct.

• Having an Exactix account with your company ID is the easiest way to make this happen. Don’t have one? No problem! We’re here to help you get that set up.