Your Guide To Safe Excavation Practices

What You Need To Know Before You Dig

This Excavation Safety Resource website is designed for professional excavators and intended for informational and reference purposes only.

The purpose of this site is to provide an overview of the Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act (hereinafter the Act), industry best practices, and the JULIE process. It does not provide all the necessary information for someone working near underground utility facilities or above ground utilities, or information specific to job circumstances. The Excavation Safety Resource provides the professional excavator and other stakeholders the basic knowledge needed to maintain a safe working environment near underground utility facilities in Illinois (outside of Chicago).

The Excavation Safety Resource is not a legal reference. It is not intended to be a full and complete statement of the law, nor of the excavators’ duties and responsibilities when engaging in excavation work. Questions regarding the interpretation of the law should be directed to an attorney. The contents of this site, JULIE policies and the state law are subject to change without notice. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) shall have the power and jurisdiction to, and shall, enforce the provisions of Act.

If you’ve referenced this website prior to January 2025, please note that a law change has taken effect January 1, 2025. The bill includes amendatory language to the Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act (JULIE Law) to enhance public safety, minimize risks to excavators, prevent disruptions and aid in the expansion of vital public services. Stay safe by reviewing the updated guidelines and requirements to ensure compliance with the latest standards.

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