The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is taking the opportunity to remind residents about the importance of safe digging practices. This comes in tandem with the state's Safe Digging Month, which aims to steer both weekend warriors and professional excavators away from inadvertently striking underground utilities. According to a recent press release by the ICC, the simple act of calling 811 before breaking ground can prevent the risk of disruptions and hazards.
ICC Chairman Doug Scott emphasizes the ease with which undetected utility lines might be damaged, stating, "The warmer weather can inspire us get started on home improvement projects, but underground utility lines can be unintentionally damaged during a digging project. Remember to call 811 before you dig for projects of any size." Illinois residents have been encouraged to actively participate in this preventive measure to ensure safety and to steadfastly comply with the Illinois law mandating that calls be placed to the Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators (JULIE) by dialing 811 at least two working days before any digging begins.
Notably, JULIE has provided 50 years of protective service for Illinoisans, and the requirement is not without its legal teeth. Homeowners and professionals failing to make the requisite call can face a range of consequences, from warnings to citations. In the previous year, the ICC staff issued 154 warnings and 1,114 citations related to safe digging violations, adding up to more than $5 million in fines. The Commission's role does not only span oversight in these matters but also extends to the general regulation of utilities, ensuring they are reliable, efficient, and safely administered.
For further resources and education related to safe digging practices, as well as the details surrounding the enforcement of the policies, the ICC urges individuals to access its website and review its guidelines. If there’s a need to resolve any utility-related disputes, consumers are invited to call 800-524-0795 or file a complaint online, while transportation-related concerns can be addressed by calling 847-294-4326. The ICC also maintains a presence on social media, found @ILCommerceComm, where updates on utility and safety regulations are regularly posted.
