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August 11 (8/11) is a timely reminder that before starting any digging project – no matter how small – you should contact Sunshine 811. Striking underground utility lines can cause costly damage, service outages, and even life-threatening injuries.
Florida is one of the fastest-growing states and a leader in construction activity, which means we face a higher risk of underground utility strikes. Last year alone, Florida experienced more than 27,000 reported damages – and 76% occurred without an 811 ticket.
Whether you’re a homeowner planting a tree or a contractor installing a fence, contacting 811 before you dig is free, easy, and required by law. |
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Follow These 6 Steps for Safe Digging:
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1. Plan your project – Gather your address, project details, and timeline.
2. Contact 811 – Call or go online at least two business days before you dig.
3. Wait for lines to be marked – Utilities have 48 hours to respond.
4. Verify positive responses – Check your ticket to confirm all utilities have marked or cleared your site.
5. Confirm the marks – Match flags and paint colors to your ticket records.
6. Dig with care – Stay 24 inches away from marked lines and watch for entangled roots. |
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Did You Know?
Trenching and excavation hazards are among OSHA’s most frequently cited violations — and cave-ins can cause serious, life-threatening injuries. If your crews perform excavation work, OSHA requires a Competent Person on site to recognize hazards, implement protective systems, and ensure job site safety. |
Our Trenching & Excavation for the Competent Person training will help you:
· Meet OSHA’s trenching and excavation safety requirements
· Identify and prevent hazards before they cause harm
· Protect workers from cave-ins, falls, falling loads, and hazardous atmospheres
· Understand soil classification and protective systems
· Develop compliant excavation and trenching safety plans
Available as private, on-site, customized training for your team. |
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| Don’t wait until a preventable incident disrupts your project. Equip your team with the knowledge and skills to dig safely — every time. |
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Stay safe,
The Florida Chamber Safety Council Team |
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