Page 8 - LA811 2022 issue 4

See
Ithink most of us would agree
that the utility and construction industries are extremely busy right now. It is a monster out there! With the lack of workforce throughout the industry, we are in critical times right now. The amount of work going on is mind-blowing! And guess what? It’s only expected to increase in the upcoming months and years. But workers are stretched thin throughout the industry, especially utility locators, and are struggling to keep up with
the surrounding projects. Who can blame them? Let’s put ourselves in a locator’s shoes. Governmental funds
are being granted to utility companies all throughout the country to expand into developed areas and rural land.
On top of that, utility operators are continuously improving and repairing current infrastructure. Damage Prevention is an essential piece to the puzzle. We must keep everyone safe and the existing utilities protected. There’s a shortage of utility locators nationwide. The pandemic really affected the workforce, and it’s been tough for companies to retain a large number of locators. But the amount
of construction and utility progression has only increased. Funds are assigned to push our society forward into new utility advances. There are many construction contracting companies who bid on these jobs from the utility companies. The grants have deadlines and the construction contractors are pushed to accomplish these projects
by that date. This all sounds like common business sense. But there is a major problem: the number of utility locators that exist to keep up with the volume of work. That is a major part. Contract locating companies are trying their best to hire and retain quality workers. Do you know many people who are locators or who are willing
to do that job? Please encourage them because this industry is booming and needs more quality employees. But while everyone is still stretched thin and extremely busy, it’s up to each and every one of us to step up and do more to be the best version of ourselves
that we can be. We must elevate our communication immensely! We have to go above and beyond to work together as a team. It’s more work for everyone, but in the end, we are going to save in numerous ways.
When I think of Louisiana, I think of good people and culture. I truly believe that Louisianians are high-character
people. We care about our neighbors, want to help, and do the right thing. So why can’t we work together as a team
in the utility and construction world? What can you do to communicate within the industry when you are working in an area? Communication is the most essential tool that we have in this industry. It’s paramount for safety and preventing damages. Of course, Louisiana 811 is a vital step and resource in the process and we are here to
help you. But at the same time, direct communication between stakeholders
is extremely important on a daily basis on these projects to make sure we are working together. Louisiana 811 is a right, but it is also a privilege to use this free service to get underground utilities located. Yes, utility companies are required to abide by dig laws, as well
as excavators. The utility companies that are hiring contractors for these projects need to understand the time that it takes to locate and the value of daily communication with surrounding utilities. Excavators must use the 811 system the right way to help the entire process run efficiently. That means submitting tickets accurately, timely, effectively and working as a team with the utility industry. Communicating directly between excavators and utility locators is essential for your teamwork. For more information on how to use 811 more accurately, please reach out to us.
I am asking everyone to be as good of a teammate in this industry as you can be. That means continuous communication between different stakeholders in
which you are working with or nearby. Please be active in your local Utility Coordinating Council. If you have not heard of this, please reach out to me. Attend the meetings regularly and come prepared to discuss your company’s projects. Exchange contact information with local utility operators, locators, and excavators. Take information back to your company so that everyone
is on the same page. Set up private pre-construction meetings between stakeholders to plan your projects together. That is what doing good business is all about. I know everyone is busy and tired. It’s up to us to push through any struggles and work together. Our livelihood depends on it in so many different ways. We are proud to live in Louisiana. Teamwork and being there for each other are our best qualities. It’s up to us to protect our state and our neighbors. Let’s come together like we know we are capable of!
The way I
it
By Cole Vanderlick Manager - Damage Prevention Louisiana 811
6 • Louisiana 811
2022, Issue 4