Three Steps for Safe Digging
1 – Contact BC 1 Call – click or call 1-800-474-6886 to request the location of buried utility lines at least three business days before digging (the locate service is FREE and will give you information about all buried utilities in your yard, including PNG gas lines). BC 1 Call will advise PNG and other utility providers of your intentions to dig.
2 – Plan out your dig – mark the area where you plan to dig. Once you receive location information from PNG (within three days of contacting BC 1 Call), use the maps and directions to mark the location of buried gas lines on your property.
- An authorized PNG field representative may come out and mark the pipeline beneath your site for you.
3 – Dig carefully – if the area where you plan to dig is within 1 meter of buried utilities, dig slowly with a hand shovel to expose the line by hand.
- Do not use machinery (augers, excavators, etc.) to dig until you have found the gas line.
- Remember: buried gas lines may be as little as a few centimetres below the surface and may not be obvious based on the meter location.
Steps to Take if you Damage a Gas Line or Smell Gas
Although most damages to gas lines are preventable, accidents can happen. If you damage a gas line or smell gas while digging, follow these steps:
- Stop work immediately – halt digging and shut off any power tools or machinery. Never try to patch or cover the leak.
- Get to a safe area – leave the dig site and notify any people nearby to leave with you.
- Call for help – use the closest safe phone to call 911 or the PNG 24-hour emergency line at 1-800-663-1173. The incident must be reported so that the line can be safely repaired.
- Reduce other hazards – don’t smoke, light matches, or operate machinery near the damaged line.
What Happens After Damaging a Gas Line?
Accidentally damaging a gas line is a serious event. The best way you can help is by telling us about it. Damage to gas lines must be reported so that PNG can ensure the line is safely repaired. Unreported damage to gas lines has the potential to lead to greater damage and/or injury in the future.
Once we become aware of damage to a gas line:
- PNG will ensure the safety of the public, including coordinating with relevant authorities.
- An authorized PNG field representative will come to inspect the line for damage.
- An investigation may be conducted to determine the cause and extent of the damage.
- PNG will ensure the line is repaired to make your property safe again.
Keep your Community Safe
Preventing damage to gas lines is good for everyone. Here are some ways you can help keep your community safe:
- Follow safe digging practices like clicking or calling BC1Call.
- Talk to your neighbours about safe digging.
- Only hire licensed contractors for work on or near gas lines or gas appliances. Go to PNG’s Licensed Gas Contractor page to learn more.
- Report any suspected damage or leaks to PNG as soon as possible.