KUB installs natural gas mains and services primarily underground at various depths in both residential areas and commercial districts in roadways, along road rights-of-way, and in easements across open fields. Pipeline markers are installed at strategic locations near the pipeline to alert excavators that pipelines are nearby, however, not seeing a marker doesn’t mean that there isn’t a pipeline present. Excavation damage is typically the largest cause of leak for a gas utility causing costly repairs and placing emergency responders unnecessarily in harm’s way.

Call 811 anytime you dig, no matter how large or small the project. Safe digging is required under the Tennessee Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act. It’s your responsibility to know the law.  Here’s a short summary of the requirements:

• Call 811 or use the app at least 3 business days prior to excavation
• Outline in white the areas you plan to excavate
• Wait the three days to ensure all utilities are marked with designated colors
• Use TN811’s Positive Response System to check on the status
• Check the site and contact 811 if the marks do not appear to be complete, have washed away, or if you have questions
• Respect the marks and hand dig in the safety zone
• If you hit a KUB line, leave the area immediately and report the damage by calling KUB at 865-524-2911 and wait for a KUB technician to respond. You can also call 911.
• Your ticket is valid for 15 calendar days. If you need to continue to excavate beyond 15 calendar days, renew your locate ticket through 811. Expired tickets can result in costly fines.

Excavator Do’s and Don’ts (Recognize. React. KUB Responds.)