Excavators
The leading cause of gas distribution system incidents has been external force damage during excavation work
near pipelines. OPS invests considerable resources in the
Common Ground Alliance (CGA) to promote damage prevention. CGA members include all
underground facility damage prevention stakeholders and CGA has assumed stewardship of these OPS initiatives: |
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Best Practices - In 1999, the OPS sponsored the Common Ground Study to develop
"Best Practices" for preventing damage to pipelines and other underground facilities.
A CGA committee ensures
the Best Practices are updated to reflect new technology and practices.
Dig Safely - This educational campaign stresses damage prevention by encouraging excavators to participate
in one-call programs. A CGA committee continues to develop educational materials for use in communities,
work sites, and public forums. |