By Keidre Adams
Texas811

Do you get frustrated when you reach a job site, ready to begin work only to find out that your job was not marked correctly? Yes, of course you do! With the rise of excavations spreading across the state of Texas, time is of the essence. You don’t want to have wasted hours of manpower or wasted money being paid out due to not being able to complete a job. Let’s talk! I want to give you one great tip that could potentially prevent you from being in this annoying type of situation again. The solution is simple, white lining.

I know you have experienced the calls to the 811 center, where it was really difficult to explain the area in question. Miscommunication from the 811 call taker and the excavator can be one of the reasons the job site is not marked completely or at all. Using white markings takes the guesswork out of the equation. If there was any confusion on the locator’s behalf, once the locator is onsite and can physically see where you have outlined your project, the confusion disappears. White lining makes the 811 processes easier and reduces the risk of errors for locators. The locator has a clear indication of what you need and is able to perform his/her job more efficiently. The locator can focus on the area in question and feel safe knowing all parties involved in this project are protected.

What does this mean to you as the excavator? Using the practice of white lining your area on every single project can aid in reducing wasted resources. It can help ensure your job site is marked correctly every time. It guarantees that facilities, property and persons involved in a project remain safe. It is an important piece in the completion of a project. So, the next time you start a project, take a few moments to white line your area. This small step helps the ticket process and takes the guesswork out of the equation for the locators; it ensures you start your job on time; it’s a win-win for everyone.