What must be completed before any digging begins?

Before any digging begins, it is essential to complete utility locates. This process involves identifying and marking the locations of underground utilities such as gas lines, water pipes, electricity cables, and telecommunications systems. Completing utility locates is crucial to ensure the safety of workers and prevent damage to these vital infrastructures during excavation.

When digging occurs without this step, there is a significant risk of accidents, which can lead to service interruptions, injury, or even fatalities. Therefore, it is mandated by law in many jurisdictions to conduct utility locates prior to any excavation activities, making this step a critical part of the planning process for any digging project.