Columbia Gas of Ohio is emphasizing the importance of contacting OHIO811 before undertaking any digging projects in April, which is recognized as National Safe Digging Month. This initiative aims to prevent potential injuries and service disruptions resulting from unnotified digging which risks damaging underground utility lines.
According to a recent national survey, over 27 million homeowners with plans for DIY excavation projects do not intend to call 811 beforehand. The failure to mark underground utilities could result in severe consequences, including injuries and expensive repairs if lines such as gas, electric, communications, water, or sewer are accidentally hit.
Robert Heidorn, President and Chief Operating Officer of Columbia Gas of Ohio, warned, “Failing to contact 811 before digging puts homeowners and their neighbors at risk of injury and utility service interruptions.” He added, “You must contact 811 for every dig, every time.”
OHIO811 offers a free service where a contact allows professional locators to mark underground lines using color-coded indicators to prevent accidents before beginning a project. Despite misconceptions about the depth of their projects, Columbia Gas stresses that even shallow jobs, like planting or installing mailboxes, require an 811 request.
Heidorn further pointed out, “Making a free 811 request before digging is a simple step that can prevent dangerous and costly mistakes.” He advocates for heightened awareness and responsibility in digging practices to ensure community safety.
For additional details on the safe digging process and using the OHIO811 system, individuals can visit www.oups.com.
Columbia Gas of Ohio delivers natural gas to 1.5 million customers in Ohio. It is part of NiSource, a significant utility provider in the U.S., aiming for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
The survey was conducted online among 616 U.S. homeowners by SurveyMonkey Audience, highlighting the risks of unnotified digging during the period from February 14 to 15, 2025.