With the top cause of pipeline accidents in Texas due to third-party damage or people digging into or near underground pipelines, the state’s pipeline safety regulators—the Texas Railroad Commissioners—remind homeowners and anyone with spring digging projects to call 811 before digging.

The Common Ground Alliance, a group of public safety stakeholders including the Railroad Commission, has designated April as National Safe Digging Month, recognizing that as weather warms up, homeowners begin to excavate new gardens, build decks or patios, plant trees and shrubs, and put in new fences or mailboxes.

“In Texas, more than 76 percent of all pipeline accidents are caused by third-party digging by contractors, landscapers or homeowners,” said Chairman Victor Carrillo. “That’s why it’s important to remember to call 811 before you dig deeper than 16 inches to have underground pipelines marked.”

Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones said, “Texas has 200,000 miles of intrastate pipeline—more intrastate pipelines that any other state in the nation. To make sure you do not hit a line when doing yard work, call toll-free to 811 at least 48 hours before you plan to dig.”

Commission Michael L. Williams said, “As part of educating the public about the importance of calling 811 before digging, the Commission reminds homeowners that they can be fined if damage to underground pipelines occurs due to careless digging, and that operators can be fined for incorrectly marking pipelines.”

Striking underground pipelines can cause injuries, disrupt services to neighborhoods and result in fines and repair costs.

So far in Fiscal Year 09, 6,831 third-party incidents or about 228 per week have been reported to the Commission. The Commission has processed 2,268 of these 6,831 incidents into enforcement dockets, collecting $577,680 in penalties.