MACRO AND MICRO ECONOMICS OF DAMAGE PREVENTION

When you think about damage prevention, you might picture some folks with hard hats and spray paint, marking up the ground before a construction project kicks off. But if that’s where your mind stops, you’re missing the bigger picture. Damage prevention also has a mix of macro and microeconomic forces acting on it and which drive how we protect our …

LOCATORS LEARNING ON THE JOB

The ability to prevent damage to underground infrastructure hinges on both technical expertise and practical experience. On-the-job learning plays an indispensable role in bridging the gap between formal training and real-world application. Locators who engage in continuous learning on the job are better equipped to navigate the specific challenges of their work environment, such as identifying subtle variations in soil …

UA / ISSUE 109

Hope you guys had a great Labor Day?! Here’s the latest damage prevention news: NUAR Expands!: READ Harnessing Data for Damage Prevention: READ Modern Hybrid GIS Deployment Benefits Boston College: READ Fixing Manholes: READ Like a hurricane’ water main break sends water airborne, crashing into five homes: READ My Street Exploded: WATCH Time to Underground Our Lines?: READ Improving Rural …

VHS | FIXING MANHOLES

When we think of underground utilities, manholes are an essential ingredient to supporting access and damage prevention processes. This video delves into the essential yet often overlooked infrastructure that keeps cities functioning. It highlights the critical role of systems like roads, bridges, water supply, and waste management in sustaining urban life. The video contrasts traditional methods with modern advancements, such …

THE POWER OF DATA IN DAMAGE PREVENTION

Data, in many ways, is like a powerful river flowing through our modern world. Just as our ancestors once captured the energy of flowing water with simple water wheels, we’ve advanced over time to harness that same energy with hydroelectric dams, fueling entire cities. Yet, for many, the vast stream of data that surrounds us still flows largely untapped, slipping …

UA / ISSUE 108

“When we protect underground utilities, we’re not just preventing damage—we’re protecting lives and the environment.” Welcome to this issue of Utility Alert, here’s the top 10 stories from the last week:   Louisiana leads nation in broadband expansion, but some don’t dig the success: READ He struck an underground electric line… and lived! WATCH Exploring the Global Impact of Trenchless …

VHS | LOCATOR LOUNGE EPISODE 6

In this episode, Ben from Geelong Cable Locations, Geoff from Locators, and Danny from In Depth Locations share their expertise on the art and science of utility locating. They explore essential topics such as the various quality levels involved in the industry, offer insights into the best types of paint for marking, and provide practical tips for accurate and efficient …

WHAT MAKES A GOOD LOCATOR?

I was watching this video recently about what makes a good locator, and it got me thinking about the qualities that truly define excellence in this critical role. Utility locating is more than just a job – it’s a responsibility that requires precision, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to safety. The importance of this role cannot be overstated. …

STAKEHOLDER COMMUNICATION

Effective and transparent communication is the backbone of safety in the utility industry. In an environment where small oversights can have catastrophic consequences, ensuring that all stakeholders – from utility companies and contractors to locators and excavators – are aligned is paramount. Too often, preventable accidents occur due to gaps in communication, leading to service disruptions, costly repairs, and even …

UA / ISSUE 107

“When we protect underground utilities, we’re not just preventing damage—we’re protecting lives and the environment.” Welcome to this issue of Utility Alert, here’s the top 10 stories from the last week:   Louisiana leads nation in broadband expansion, but some don’t dig the success: READ He struck an underground electric line… and lived! WATCH Exploring the Global Impact of Trenchless …