Enhancing Excavation Safety

Enhancing Excavation Safety: Highlights from OHIO811's Interactive Excavator Seminars

OHIO811 recently hosted a series of Interactive Excavator Seminars designed to enhance safety for contractors and clarify responsibilities during excavation projects. Mason Private Locating was proud to sponsor the seminars held in Hilliard and Lima, Ohio.

These seminars provided invaluable insights into the critical distinctions between excavator and facility owner responsibilities, ensuring that all participants left better equipped to navigate the complexities of excavation safely and efficiently.

"Mason Private Locating recognizes that safety is paramount in the excavation industry. Caitlin and her team at OHIO811 do an amazing job with these seminars, which reflect their commitment to enhancing contractor safety and operational efficiency. These seminars provide invaluable insights into the shared responsibilities of excavators and facility owners, fostering a culture of awareness and communication. We look forward to continuing our partnership with OHIO811 on these important educational initiatives to keep our communities safe."
- Mike Iadanza, SVP of Mason Private Locating


Interactive Learning Stations
The seminars featured four interactive stations, each focusing on key areas of excavation safety and compliance:

  • Ohio's Universal Marking Standards:
    Understanding utility markings is crucial for safe excavation. This station educated participants about the Ohio Revised Code's requirements for marking utilities according to the Ohio Universal Marking Standards. Attendees learned what various markings signify and received updates on any recent changes to these standards, fostering a more informed approach to excavation.
  • Excavator Notification Process:
    Effective communication is essential in the excavation process. Here, participants explored various methods for notifying OHIO811, including the innovative Remote Ticket Entry system. Through an engaging e-Learning module, they gained insights into different types of Locate Requests and learned the step-by-step process for creating a request, empowering them to ensure timely and accurate notifications.
  • Job site Analysis and Resources:
    Safety begins with a thorough job site analysis. Participants toured OHIO811's Educational Trailer, engaging in an interactive examination of above-ground visual indicators such as overhead hazards and safe access points. Additionally, they learned about critical resources, including mobile apps and trenchless technology requirements, equipping them with tools to enhance safety on the job.
  • Shared Responsibilities among Stakeholders:
    This station tackled pressing issues faced by the locating community today. Participants learned how excavators' actions can impact utility locators' response times. Through discussions on effective excavation location descriptions, the timing of notifications, and other crucial factors, attendees gained a comprehensive understanding of the shared responsibilities that contribute to a safer excavation environment.

"At OHIO811, our goal is to ensure that every excavation project is conducted safely and efficiently. These Interactive Excavator Seminars are designed to equip industry professionals with essential knowledge about their responsibilities and the importance of communication. We are grateful for our partnership with Mason Private Locating, along with our other sponsors, which allows us to continue to create engaging and informative experiences that promote safety across the industry."

- Caitlin Kacsandi, Public Education and Outreach Coordinator, OHIO811

OHIO811's Interactive Excavator Seminars, successfully fostered a deeper understanding of excavation safety. By emphasizing the importance of both excavator and facility owner responsibilities, these seminars not only enhance contractor safety but also promote a culture of collaboration and communication in the industry. As excavation projects continue to evolve, initiatives like these are vital for ensuring that all stakeholders are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary for safe and efficient operations.


To learn more about Ohio 811's Educational Initiatives, click here.

For more information on Mason Private Locating and the importance of having all utilities located and marked, visit them at www.TeamMPL.com.