With the warm weather on its way and the construction season ramping up, Enbridge Gas New Brunswick and WorkSafeNB are reminding New Brunswickers that they are required by law to call for a pipeline locate before digging, excavating or landscaping. One phone call will allow the natural gas utility to make sure there are no underground pipelines in the project area.
“When beginning any work, from a simple tree planting project to major excavation, it’s important to plan ahead and call for a pipeline locate,” said Ed Armstrong, manager of distribution operations for Enbridge Gas New Brunswick.
Companies, contractors and other individuals who fail to determine the location of buried natural gas pipelines before breaking ground and cause damage to a natural gas line may be liable for the cost of repairs and could face additional fines or charges.
“Not calling could be costly,” Armstrong said. “Digging, landscaping, or even grinding tree stumps in the wrong spot could cut off essential services to neighbourhoods and cause damage or personal injury.”
Richard Blais, WorkSafeNB’s director of compliance and regulatory review, added: “The simple and free service helps workers recognize the risks and take appropriate precautions. It not only leads to safe working conditions for workers, but a safe environment for all.”
The public is urged to plan ahead by calling at least two working days in advance of any digging. Enbridge Gas New Brunswick will visit the site and will identify and mark the location of underground pipes, so they can be avoided while working in the area.
To book a pipeline locate service, anyone can call the toll-free number at 1-800-994-2762. (In Saint John call 1 866-344-5463.) For more information, visit www.naturalgasnb.com.
Be safe at home and at work. Call before you dig!
Enbridge Gas New Brunswick is regulated by the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board and has a distribution network that includes more than 800 kilometres of natural gas pipeline. Enbridge Gas New Brunswick serves more than 12,000 customers in Dieppe, Dorchester, Fredericton, Hanwell, Moncton, Oromocto, Riverview, Sackville, Saint John, St. George and St. Stephen.
WorkSafeNB is committed to promoting healthy and safe workplaces for New Brunswick’s workers and employers. While its priority is preventing workplace injuries and occupational disease, WorkSafeNB provide comprehensive rehabilitation services and fair compensation benefits when these do occur.
An Enbridge Gas New Brunswick representative locates a pipeline. Enbridge Gas and WorkSafeNB are reminding all New Brunswickers to call before you dig. Photo: Enbridge Gas New Brunswick / WorkSafeNB