The
Illinois Underground Utilities Damage Prevention Act (Section 4) requires
all excavators to white-line the dig site when
practical (use black paint when snow is present). JULIE
and its member companies strongly urge white-lining prior to processing their locate request.
(In winter months when snow is present, black paint or flags can be
used.)
What is white-lining? This is the process of going to the proposed excavation site and marking the area where you will be digging with white paint and/or flags prior to contacting JULIE.
What are the benefits of white-lining? There are many benefits to white-lining your project. While initially you might feel it is an added cost utilizing personnel for this purpose, you will actually be saving time and money in the long run.
Initial benefits to this program include:
- Locating crews will know exactly where to mark, avoiding confusion and possible project delays.
- If more construction crews white-lined their projects, utility locators would spend less time locating at each site and locating more sites per day.
- Excavation crews can identify the work area at the site quicker.
- Fewer joint meets will be required.
- Excavation damage will be reduced because of more accurate utility markings.
What is the best way to white-line at the dig site? Here are some white-lining guidelines to help expedite your project:
- Always white-line the site prior to notifying JULIE using paint and flags.
- Paint with dashes, lines or arrows to indicate excavation area.
- Mark center line.
- Indicate on locate request to mark at least 10 feet past your white-lined area.
For information on where to purchase paint and flags see Marking Products. Our Damage Prevention Manager can also provide additional assistance.