FortisBC calls for greater care when working near gas lines
by CM staff
Majority of damages to gas lines are preventable by following safe excavation practices.
SURREY —FortisBC is reminding British Columbians to keep themselves and others safe by reaching out to BC 1 Call before any digging or excavation work to avoid damaging underground utility lines.
“Damaging or severing a gas line can be dangerous to both workers and the community,” said Tanya Kowalenko, program manager, public safety at FortisBC. “Safety is our top priority. We ask that businesses and homeowners follow some quick safety steps before they dig, starting with a call to BC 1 Call at 1-800-474-6886 for information about what’s buried in your yard. You’ll receive a map in three days’ time, free of charge. From there, you are required to follow the digging guidelines if your project is near identified underground lines.”
FortisBC has seen an increase of around five to 10 per cent in incidents causing damage to gas lines from last month. The vast majority of these incidents could have been avoided by following precautions. Failing to do so can result in damage to gas infrastructure that can pose a safety risk and potential disruptions in service for homes and businesses that rely on the gas system.
In 2022, FortisBC noted 896 instances of British Columbians damaging underground utility lines. Approximately 70 per cent of damages were from those who did not contact BC 1 Call before digging. Of the other 30 per cent, most did not appropriately use the information provided or did not dig by hand first.
“Unfortunately, most of the damage done to gas lines comes from external parties conducting work and failing to take the necessary precautions,” added Kowalenko. “Rather than putting safety at risk and inconveniencing others in the community because of a disruption in service, we want to encourage British Columbians to call before they dig.”
