What does a "one-call" system provide before you begin digging?

A "one-call" system provides notification to participating utility companies and other underground infrastructure owners that excavation is planned at a specific location, prompting them to mark the approximate location of their underground facilities before digging begins. The primary goal of a one-call system is to prevent damage to underground utilities, such as gas pipelines, electrical cables, communication lines, water pipes, and sewer lines. Damaging these utilities can result in service disruptions, property damage, injuries, or even fatalities. Before any excavation work begins, the excavator is required to contact the one-call center, providing information about the excavation location and the extent of the planned digging. The one-call center then notifies the relevant utility companies that have underground facilities in the area. The utility companies are then responsible for locating and marking the approximate location of their underground facilities using color-coded paint, flags, or other markers. These markings indicate the type of utility (e.g., red for electric, yellow for gas, blue for water). The excavator can then use these markings to carefully dig around the underground facilities, avoiding damage. The one-call system does not provide precise location information for the underground facilities. The markings are only approximate, and the excavator is still responsible for exercising caution and using hand digging techniques when working near the marked locations. Following the one-call process is a legal requirement in most jurisdictions. Failing to do so can result in significant fines and liability for any damages caused to underground utilities. The one-call system is a critical component of excavation safety, protecting workers, the public, and the environment from the hazards associated with damaging underground utilities.