DPC Update – Digging Into Hot Topics On Your Mind
We’re spotlighting some of the most frequently discussed topics raised during these gatherings—along with some information and reminders—to help clarify common misunderstandings and support better decision-making across the board.
Since launching in 2024, the Damage Prevention Council of Florida has grown to six regional councils across the state, addressing local concerns, sharing best practices and strengthening stakeholder communication. These meetings have sparked important conversations about safe digging, 811 processes, and how to reduce underground utility damages.
LARGE PROJECT CHALLENGES & REMINDERS
Large projects require a great deal of planning, work and patience. The one-mile rule, 2-day marking period and 30-day ticket window often present challenges for both excavators and locators. Excavators are submitting dozens of 1-mile tickets and multiple streets at once, and locators can’t keep up.
It’s widely understood that fiber installs are overwhelming the system and challenging locate timing. We all must work collaboratively and patiently through the process.
As a reminder, for large projects, the best and required solution is to segment work areas and submit tickets in intervals (when work is complete on one section).
Project managers cited pre-excavation meetings as being critical to all parties understanding the project and managing timelines.
TICKET SCOPE ISSUES & EXCESSIVE RENEWALS
Starting off a project with detailed and complete locate tickets equals success. We’re seeing an increase of vague and unrealistic scopes on tickets that require further work before locating and can ultimately delay your project. The best solution is to take updated ITE training, as well as review training videos.
Emergency tickets for non-emergency issues – as well as excessive renewals for work areas where there is no work occurring – strain and impact the entire system. Ensure you understand what constitutes an emergency ticket and the exact process for renewals.
MARKING CHALLENGES & POSITIVE RESPONSE
Up-to-date facility maps are critical for locators. Member utilities should make the most current maps accessible.
Just as important as excavators providing accurate locate tickets is the need for locators to provide accurate and consistent marks.
On-site coordination for excavators and locators is key so that multiple utilities on-site don’t complicate marking efforts and so excavators are not destroying marks that result in repeated ticket renewals. A good solution is to document all markings and request offset markings.
Positive Response is the most critical tool for excavators and locators – it's the ONLY way to check for real-time updates. It’s important for excavators to keep subcontractors in the loop, as subs are increasingly hitting lines.
Join a regional Damage Prevention Council today and be part of a meaningful initiative to improve our work together and bring solutions to the challenges we face. DPC — Sunshine 811