TSSA and Ontario One Call Launch April Dig Safe Month Campaign Amid Rising Excavation Risks
Event summary
- TSSA and Ontario One Call are promoting April as Dig Safe Month to highlight the importance of obtaining locates before digging.
- Pipeline strikes in Ontario typically increase more than two-fold during spring and summer due to improper excavation practices.
- Over 110,000 km of pipeline deliver fuel across Ontario, making safe excavation practices critical.
- A locate request must be submitted at ontarioonecall.ca at least five business days before starting a single property project.
- TSSA and Ontario One Call emphasize that damage to underground infrastructure is entirely preventable with proper procedures.
The big picture
The campaign underscores the critical role of regulatory oversight in preventing infrastructure damage during seasonal excavation surges. With over 110,000 km of pipelines and extensive underground utilities, Ontario faces significant risks from improper digging practices. The initiative aligns with broader trends in safety governance, emphasizing shared responsibility between regulators, utility owners, and the public.
What we're watching
- Compliance Rates
- Whether the campaign will increase the number of locate requests submitted before digging projects.
- Incident Reduction
- The pace at which pipeline strikes and other underground infrastructure damages decrease following the campaign.
- Public Awareness
- How effectively the message reaches homeowners and contractors, particularly in high-risk areas.
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