Safe digging practices take center stage in Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo., (KBSI) — Upcoming changes to Missouri law will require excavators to contact Missouri 811 at least two business days before starting a project.

The new law, which takes effect Aug. 28, aims to prevent costly repairs, service interruptions and serious injuries by ensuring underground facilities are marked before excavation begins.

Ameren Missouri is urging its customers to call 811 or visit SB133 – Modifies and creates new provisions relating to underground facilities before starting any digging project. Requests can be made at no cost, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Key Changes to Missouri Law:

– Notification Period: Excavators must contact Missouri 811 at least two business days before starting a project.
– Project Completion: Work must be completed within 21 days of the project start date. If work continues beyond that period, a new 811 ticket is required.
– Unmarked Facilities: Excavators must notify Missouri 811 if they discover an unmarked underground facility.

Ameren Missouri recommends having underground lines freshly marked every time you dig, even if you have had lines marked for past projects.