Every successful project begins with a plan—and every excavation should begin with a call to 811.
In recognition of National 811 Day, the Florida Chamber Safety Council is joining Sunshine 811 in reminding Florida businesses, contractors, and homeowners to contact 811 before every digging project, no matter how big or small.
Striking an underground utility line can result in costly repairs, service interruptions, gas leaks and serious injuries. Fortunately, preventing these incidents is simple, free and required by law.
The need has never been greater. In 2025, Florida experienced 34,652 reported utility damages, and 79% occurred without a locate ticket. That's approximately 93 underground utility lines damaged every day—many of which could have been prevented by contacting 811 before digging. |
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A Message from Our Advisory Board Member
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"Safe excavation begins long before the first shovel enters the ground. Calling 811 is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect workers, prevent utility strikes and keep projects moving safely. Making safe digging part of every project's planning process strengthens safety culture and helps protect Florida's workforce."
— Mark Ligon
Vice President of Safety & Risk Management, Vecellio Group
Advisory Board Member, Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet on Safety, Health & Sustainability |
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Trenching and excavation remain among OSHA's most closely scrutinized construction hazards, and cave-ins can result in serious, life-threatening injuries. OSHA requires a competent person to inspect excavations, identify hazards, and ensure appropriate protective systems are in place before and during excavation work.
If your organization performs excavation work, the Florida Chamber Safety Council's Trenching & Excavation for the Competent Person training can help your team:
- Understand OSHA's trenching and excavation safety requirements
- Recognize excavation hazards before work begins
- Classify soil and select appropriate protective systems
- Conduct required inspections and identify changing site conditions
- Protect workers from cave-ins, falls, falling loads, and hazardous atmospheres
- Strengthen jobsite safety planning and OSHA compliance
Available as private, customized on-site training for your organization. |
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| Don’t wait until a preventable incident disrupts your project. Equip your team with the knowledge and skills to dig safely — every time. |
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Stay safe,
The Florida Chamber Safety Council Team |
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