Natural gas is a safe and reliable energy source, but the number one threat to our systems is accidental line strikes. Safety is our top priority, and an important part of that is our ongoing effort to promote safe digging practices.
Recently three of our team members from southwestern Colorado went above and beyond, coming up with a blueprint that will help the communities we serve stay safer for years to come.
Gas operations supervisors Nathan H. and Brien G., and damage prevention coordinator B.J. H., launched an ambitious plan to gather utility operators and contractors from across southwestern Colorado and teach them about best digging practices and the state’s 811 dig law.
Their plan came to fruition this year when more than 250 stakeholders attended five separate meetings held in Pagosa Springs, Telluride, Ridgway, Montrose and Delta. These sessions covered safe digging practices, legal requirements, best practices, web ticket entry and effective communication with local operators.
Reducing line hits makes our communities safer and goes a long way toward meeting our company’s greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.
The Southwest Colorado events were a great success and earned significant attention throughout the region, prompting interest from other local utilities that want to participate in and sponsor future events.
“The ripple effects of their efforts are clear,” said Ed H., the senior gas operations manager. “Brien, Nathan and B.J. have not only elevated safety standards, but also built a collaborative framework that will benefit our industry and communities for years to come.”
Colorado Gas general manager Chris D. also praised their efforts, saying, “Their leadership, innovation and commitment to excellence makes our communities safer and deserves recognition. Please join me in congratulating them and celebrating a job well done.”
Community outreach and education are crucial for preventing accidental line hits that can cause outages, costly damage and serious injury. The best way to stay safe while digging? Call or click 811 before you break ground. It’s free, easy and the law.
Visit blackhillsenergy.com/safe-digging to learn more.