Resolution Aims to Promote Safety Awareness for Homeowners and Utility Workers
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to designate April as National Safe Digging Month, helping to build awareness of safe digging practices that protect homeowners and utility workers from damaging underground utility lines during excavation projects. Peters introduced this resolution with U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Ted Cruz (R-TX).
“When utility lines are accidentally damaged during excavation projects, it threatens the safety of our workers and the environment while disrupting vital services that communities depend on,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud to again partner with the Common Ground Alliance to establish April as National Safe Digging Month and help lead the charge to promote safe digging practices that protect Michiganders and utility workers as they build and maintain our critical infrastructure.”
"Senator Peters’ National Safe Digging Month resolution reflects his commitment to smart, preventative solutions that protect both public safety and infrastructure. With 27 million Americans likely to dig without calling 811 first, his leadership addresses a significant risk while supporting his priorities of community safety and economic stability. The Common Ground Alliance commends his proactive approach to this critical issue,” said Common Ground Alliance President and CEO Sarah K. Magruder Lyle.
Each year, underground utility infrastructure, including pipelines, electrical lines, and telecommunications cables, is unintentionally damaged during excavation projects. National Safe Digging Month was established by the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) to raise awareness of safe digging practices like the “One Call” policy, which encourages homeowners and excavators to dial “811” before starting a project to obtain information regarding the location of utility lines. Peters’ resolution designates April as National Safe Digging Month to support safety and awareness efforts – and because April is the beginning of the peak period when excavation projects are carried out around the country.
The full text of the resolution can be found here.
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