Emergency Procedures

The provisions in Chapter 556, F.S. do not apply to making an excavation or demolition during emergency situations where there is: 

• A clear and present danger to life or property

• A leaking substance

• An interruption in vital public or communication services

• Dangerous roadways (i.e. no traffic light at a busy intersection)

During emergencies, the member or its agent can do one of two things:

1. Immediately begin repairing the damaged facility. Request an after-the-fact emergency ticket at the earliest convenience, but note in the Remarks section that work is completed.

2. Request an emergency ticket before or while digging. If you choose this option, note in the Remarks section that a crew is on site or the expected time of arrival. But, be aware that there are no legal requirements for any member to locate and mark within a timeframe less than two full business days.

NOTE: If your company requires a crew to locate emergency tickets within two hours or any other time frame less than two days, check the Remarks section so that you aren't sending a locator out to mark an emergency that is already repaired.

Excavator Procedures

1. If you damage a buried facility or just nick it, stop digging and contact the facility owner.

2. If you strike a gas line and hear a hissing, whistling or roaring sound - or smell rotten eggs - shut down the equipment, call 911 a safe distance from the gas, clear the area and contact the facility owner.

• Avoid starting any engines. Engine ignition can cause gas to ignite.

• Be careful of other ignition sources such as static from nylon jackets, cigarettes, lighters, electrical switches, cell phones, pagers, cameras and metal tools.