Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 952 - OREGON UTILITY NOTIFICATION CENTER
Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 952 is dedicated to the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC), often known by its "Call Before You Dig" number, 811. This chapter lays out the legal framework and operating procedures for the statewide system designed to prevent damage to underground utility facilities and promote public safety during excavation activities.
The core purpose of the OUNC, as reflected in these rules, is to:
Operate a statewide "One-Call" system: This system allows excavators (contractors, homeowners, etc.) to notify operators of underground facilities about proposed excavation work.
Facilitate the marking of underground utilities: Once notified, utility operators are required to mark the location of their buried lines (electricity, gas, water, sewer, communication, etc.) so excavators can avoid damaging them.
Reduce damages and ensure public safety: By preventing accidental strikes to underground utilities, the OUNC helps to avoid injuries, property damage, service disruptions, and environmental hazards.
Here's a breakdown of key aspects covered in OAR Chapter 952:
Definitions (OAR 952-001-0010): This section provides clear definitions for terms used throughout the chapter, such as "excavation," "underground facilities," "operator," "designer," "business day," "tolerance zone," and "ticket life" (the 45-day period a locate request is valid).
Notice Requirements for Excavators (OAR 952-001-0050): This is a critical rule stating that excavators must notify the Oregon Utility Notification Center at least two full business days, but not more than 10 full business days, before beginning an excavation. It also outlines exceptions for emergencies and small excavations on private property under certain conditions.
Operator Response Requirements (OAR 952-001-0070): Within two full business days of receiving notice, operators of underground facilities must:
Mark their locatable underground facilities within 24 inches of the outside lateral dimensions, using specific color codes (e.g., Red for electric, Yellow for gas, Blue for water).
Provide information for unlocatable facilities using their best available data.
Notify the excavator if they have no facilities in the proposed excavation area.
Excavator's Duty of Care and Damage Procedures (OAR 952-001-0090): Even after facilities are marked, excavators have a responsibility to:
Maintain the marks during excavation.
Use hand tools or other non-invasive methods within a "tolerance zone" (24 inches) of marked facilities.
Immediately notify the utility operator if any damage occurs to underground facilities. For emergencies or releases of hazardous materials, 911 must also be called.
Not backfill damaged facilities without the operator's consent.
Board of Directors and Administration: The OUNC is an independent not-for-profit public corporation governed by a Board of Directors, as detailed in related Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 757.547). The OARs further define aspects of the Board's operations and its authority to adopt rules.
Penalties and Enforcement: While the OARs themselves focus on the rules, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) holds a position on the OUNC board and enforces violations of Oregon's Dig Laws, including penalties for non-compliance.
In essence, OAR Chapter 952 creates the regulatory framework for Oregon's "Call Before You Dig" system, which is a vital tool for preventing accidents, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of workers and the public.
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