2/19/2025 SW FL
Meeting Date: February 19, 2024, noon - 1:18 p.m.
Location: Bonita Springs Utilities, 11500 Operations Way, Bonita Springs, FL 34135.
Attendance: 31 Total Attendees (15 In-Person and 16 online)
Meeting recorded is available for viewing on the GoToWebinar platform: Meeting Recording.
Key Discussion Points
Sunshine 811 Updates
Enforcement Training: Sunshine 811 has updated its enforcement training resources, including an online course and a 13-minute video covering the basics of enforcing Chapter 556, F.S. Access the training at Sunshine811.com/Enforcement.
Mandatory Damage Reporting (DIRT): All member operators are required by law to report damages annually through the Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT). Reports for the previous calendar year are due by March 31st. More information is available at Florida DIRT — Sunshine 811.
Safe Digging Month: April is recognized as Safe Digging Month to promote the importance of safe excavation practices. Stakeholders are encouraged to take the IDigSafe Pledge to demonstrate their commitment to safety. Take the pledge at sunshine811.com/takethepledge.
Ticket Statistics:
2024 ticket volume decreased by 2.8% compared to 2023.
A record of 11,218 tickets was set on January 6, 2025.
January 2025 saw a 5.4% increase over January 2024.
Exactix Training:
Updated training is forthcoming for users of the Exactix ticket entry system, especially those who transitioned from the previous Irth system without additional training.
DPC Discussion Items
Ticket Scope Definitions: Discussions highlighted challenges with large-scale projects, particularly in fiber installations, where multiple one-mile tickets are submitted rapidly. This practice strains locator resources. The Sunshine 811 Board of Directors is considering the implementation of "Large Project Tickets" to address this issue.
Emergency Tickets Misuse: Concerns were raised about contractors mislabeling non-emergency situations as emergencies, which disrupts normal operations. Sunshine 811 emphasizes that false emergency declarations are citable violations.
Locator Markings: Issues were discussed regarding the removal or destruction of locator markings by excavators, leading to repeated ticket renewals. Suggestions included using offset marks and improving communication between locators and contractors.
Enforcement Challenges: Non-municipal utilities, like Bonita Springs Utilities, face difficulties in enforcing regulations due to limited enforcement authority. Sunshine 811 is working to provide training and resources to local enforcement agencies to address this gap.
Signage Tickets: Instances were reported where excessive signage requests were submitted under a single ticket, complicating the locating process. Contractors are encouraged to premark sign locations, provide attachments, and to limit submitting large areas for locates. There was a suggestion to limit the number of signs on a ticket similar to the limit for 5-individual addresses for locating on to property.
Mast Arm Projects: For projects involving mast arm installations at intersections, it's recommended to provide detailed descriptions and, if possible, visual attachments to assist locators in accurately identifying work areas.
Additional Notes
Sponsorship Opportunities: Individuals or organizations interested in sponsoring lunch for future DPC meetings should contact Allen Perry or Brian Dean.
Communication Emphasis: A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the importance of proactive and clear communication among all stakeholders to ensure safety and efficiency in excavation activities.
For further details and to access training resources, please visit Sunshine 811's official website.
📅 Next Meeting
Date: May 21, 2025
Location: Bonita Springs Utilities, 11500 Operations Way, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Lunch: To be provided by Sunshine 811 or a sponsor