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KNOW Before You Dig
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Understanding the Unlocatable: Navigating the Limits of Utility Locates
Not all utilities can be located with standard equipment. This case study shows a communication tower with cameras and speakers where the cables couldn’t be traced due to open-ended, unpowered lines and no termination access — a real example of why clear communication and Critical Zone planning are essential before excavation.
Aug 9, 20253 min read


Utility Locate Liability: Who’s Responsible for Missed Locates?
Who’s liable when a utility locate is missed? This post explains legal responsibility and how to reduce risk in public and private locate disputes.
Apr 2, 20251 min read


Utility Locate Risks & ASCE 38-22: Why Missing Information Increases Strikes
Missing records, poor access, or unavailable site personnel all increase the risk of utility strikes. This post explores how ASCE 38-22 helps reduce that risk.
Mar 11, 20254 min read


Locate Requirements for Ground Disturbance Proposals and Contracts: Risks, Liability & ASCE 38-22
This post outlines utility locate responsibilities, private locate limitations, and what must be included in proposals and contracts before any ground disturbance begins.
Feb 16, 20254 min read


Private Utility Locates: Stakeholders, Risks & Why Blind Locates Still Happen
This post explains the challenges, limitations, and stakeholder roles involved in private utility locates compared to public locates.
Jan 10, 20253 min read


Geotechnical & Environmental Drilling: Protect Your Borehole Projects with Expert Locates
Planning environmental or geotechnical drilling? This post explains how expert utility locates protect borehole design and reduce strike risk.
Dec 14, 20242 min read


Hand Digging Near Buried Utility Infrastructure: Best Practices for Safe Excavation
Learn safe hand digging techniques near buried utility infrastructure, including tolerance zone best practices and utility owner compliance reminders.
Nov 2, 20243 min read


Avoid Pool Installation Delays with Design Utility Locates in DFW
Installing a pool? Learn how private design utility locates help homeowners and contractors avoid costly strikes and meet permit requirements in Texas.
Oct 23, 20243 min read


Supporting 811: Why Verifying Utility Locates Enhances Safety and Accuracy
Learn why verifying 811 utility locates is critical. This post explains common marking errors, grounding issues, and the importance of accurate verification private locates.
Aug 14, 20242 min read


What Do Utility Marking Colors on Streets and Sidewalks Mean?
Understand what each spray paint color means when you see markings on the road or sidewalk. This guide explains utility marking colors used to locate buried gas, water, and electric lines.
Jun 15, 20242 min read


Private Utility Locate Guideline: Roles, Risks, and Requirements
Learn what a private utility locate really involves. This guideline outlines the roles of landowners, excavators, and private locate technicians, and explains how to reduce the risk of missed buried infrastructure.
May 20, 20247 min read


Utility Locating Texas: Know Before You Dig Locates LLC Now Open to Support Safe Excavation
Know Before You Dig Locates LLC is now open in Texas! Discover how our team protects excavation projects through expert utility locating and safety consulting.
May 10, 20242 min read
Industry insights, guidelines, and real-world lessons from the field
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