Recent excavation work-related incidents reported to WorkSafeBC

October 1, 2025 Excavation incident summaries are based on information obtained as soon as possible after the incidents: they are preliminary and subject to change. Details have been edited to protect workers’ privacy. See additional summaries online. Injury Type: Close call Core Activity: House or other wood frame…

Never Assume What’s Underground 

Every year in BC, buried utilities are damaged because people dig without knowing what’s below. The consequences can be serious – risking worker and public safety, harming the environment, and disrupting critical services such as power, gas, water, and communications. The BC Common Ground Alliance…

Right-of-Way Ground Patrols: Protecting What’s Below

A utility right-of-way (ROW) is more than just open space; it’s a critical corridor that protects the underground infrastructure we all rely on. Utilities such as gas, petroleum, water, sewer, telecommunications, and power lines run beneath these corridors, and protection requires regular patrols and vigilant…

BCCGA Website Feedback

Help us update our website! It has been a number of years since we refreshed our website and our Board is looking for feedback from our members and followers to better understand what you are using the website for and what changes we can make…

Recent Excavation Work-Related Incidents Reported to WorkSafeBC

WorkSafeBC publishes incident summaries based on information obtained as soon as possible after the incidents: they are preliminary and subject to change. Details have been edited to protect workers’ privacy. See additional summaries online. Two excavation related incidents stand out in the August 28th, 2025 summary…

CGA New Report Released – 2024 DIRT Report

The CGA and their Data Reporting & Evaluation Committee publishes the only comprehensive accounting and analysis of damages to buried infrastructure in the U.S. and Canada. The DIRT Annual Report is based on data entered into the Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) for a given…

Are your kids smarter than you??

Let’s take a moment to recognise the importance of educating the younger generations about damage prevention (and about how things actually work). Who remembers Sesame Street? How many of the catchy jingles live rent-free in your memories? How about “What’s Down Below The Street”?👉 https://lnkd.in/gC4vz-xT…

CER Public Opinion Research Report Now Available

In February and March, the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) conducted qualitative research about trust and confidence in the work we do as a regulator, led by survey expert Environics.  The report is now available on the federal government’s Library and Archives Canada website in the…

Join our Member Meeting – July 17th at 11 am PST

Our upcoming BC Common Ground Alliance Member Meeting will feature a special regulatory panel focused on worker and public safety and damage prevention in British Columbia. This facilitated panel discussion will bring together key regulatory voices to help our members better understand their responsibilities and…

Know the rules before you dig!

Ground disturbance regulations help protect workers, communities, and the environment by preventing damage to underground infrastructure. Organizations like WorkSafeBC, the BC Energy Regulator, and the Canada Energy Regulator provide crucial guidance that protects YOU. From safety protocols to regulatory requirements, they have resources that help…

Responding to Unauthorized Activities

This course, built through a joint industry project between ForitsBC, TC Energy and SaskEnergy, provides a strong foundation fur understanding how to manage unauthorized activities near pipelines. Click here to enrol in the course or find out more. Note that the course is available free…

You made it to the end of Safe Dig Month!

Congratulations, Safe Dig Warrior! 🎉 So, you made it to the end of Safe Dig Month without hitting a single thing! You deserve a medal—or at least a slice of cake! 🍰 While others are scratching their heads over what’s lurking underground, you’re out here…

April is Dig Safe Month in BC! Free Video!

There is an underground network of gas lines, electricity, telephone, internet and TV cable wires, as well as water and sewer connections that could be damaged if you dig in the wrong spot. When it comes to underground utilities, the smallest incident can cause serious…

Notice of Annual General Meeting – May 1st

We are excited to announce that the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the B.C. Common Ground Alliance is scheduled for May 1st.  Details of the AGM:– Date: May 1st– Time: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM– Location: Virtual or in-person at #201-2101 Holdom Avenue, Burnaby (space…

April is Dig Safe Month in BC – Use the Handy QR Code!

Given the proliferation of QR Codes, Utility Safety Partners has developed the ClickBeforeYouDig QR Code. The QR Code directs scanners to www.ClickBeforeYouDig.com — the one-window portal to commence the damage prevention process anywhere in Canada and the United States. In BC, users are directed to BC 1 Call. Incorporate this…

Register Now for the 2025 CCGA Symposium

The Halifax Marriott Harbourfront | November 4th – 6th, 2025 The Canadian Common Ground Alliance is excited to announce that registration for the 2025 Damage Prevention Symposium is now open. This event is a signature event for the CCGA attracting over 200+ damage prevention management…

It’s Dig Safe Month in BC!

Take the BCCGA Safety Challenge: Because Digging Blindfolded Is a Bad Idea! Think you’re ready to dive into that excavation project? Not so fast! Before you grab that shovel and start digging like you’re on a treasure hunt, take the BCCGA Safety Challenge! It’s simple:…

Are you ready to elevate your commitment to underground safety in construction? Join our virtual safety presentation on February 13th at 10:15 am

Join renowned motivational speaker Jack Thomas for an impactful hour where he’ll share his personal story highlighting the critical importance of safe practices, especially when working around underground utilities. Jack’s compelling narrative underscores the real-life dangers faced in our industry and serves as a powerful…

NEW 2024 DIRT Data Submission Deadline!

Happy New Year everyone! For your organization’s data to be included in the analysis for the 2024 DIRT Report, submissions must be completed by February 28, 2025! Please join us in collecting data to identify root causes of damages and make BC safer. Submit Event…

2024 Annual Report

Check out our 2024 Annual Report to Members and Partners! It’s been another great year – thank you for your continued support for underground safety!

Happy Holidays from BCCGA

On behalf of BCCGA, we extend our heartfelt thanks to you — our members, partners, and safety champions—for your unwavering dedication to underground safety in 2024. Your commitment inspires us every day. As this year comes to a close, we wish you and your loved…

In Memoriam: Robert “Bob” Mizon

We deeply mourn the passing of Robert (Bob) Mizon on October 3rd, 2024. Bob served as the Chair of our Board for over a decade, and was not only a dedicated leader but also a relentless advocate for safety and damage prevention, making a significant…

Holiday Social – December 3rd at 5 pm

It’s getting to that time of year again….please join us for a cup (or mug or stein!) of holiday cheer on December 3rd at 5 pm.  🎅🏼🍺 Date:  Tuesday, December 3rd Time:  Meet the BCCGA Team at 5:00 PM at the entrance to the Market…after…

How to comply with winter driving safety requirements

Road Safety at Work When construction trades employees drive for work in winter for anything from travelling between job sites to transporting materials and equipment or crew members, BC law requires employers to take several steps to ensure their safety.  Road Safety at Work can…

2023 DIRT Report Released

Local Link – CCGA National DIRT Report for 2023 OR copy and paste the link below into your web browser. ———– The Canadian Common Ground Alliance is pleased to share the CCGA National DIRT (Damage Information Reporting Tool) Report for 2023. This report, based on…

BC 1 Call Announces a new President

BC 1 Call has announced the appointment of Donna Grant as President, effective October 21, 2024.  Donna will lead the organization in its important efforts in damage prevention and safety related to B.C.’s underground infrastructure.  “I look forward to bringing my experience and commitment to…

Did you know?

BCCGA is not a training provider. That said, we work with our members to ensure that education around safe digging practices is available and meets minimum requirements. The training and certification requirements to perform work in BC depends on who you are performing work for.…

Ground Disturbance Exellence Award – City of Kelowna

We were thrilled to attend the BC Municipal Safety Association/Public Works Association of BC Joint Annual Conference and Tradeshow on October 8th and to present the Ground Disturbance Excellence Award to the City of Kelowna. Thanks to BCMSA for hosting us and Congratulations to the…

2024 BCLNA Holiday Gala – Everyone Welcome!

It’s the jolliest time of the year! Join us at BC Landscaping and Nursery Association’s annual holiday gala, where we get together to enjoy good food and celebrate! Thursday, December 5 · 6 – 11:30pm PST at Delta Hotels Burnaby Conference Centre Everyone is Welcome!…

Become a DIRT Reporter!

Help BCCGA to target damage prevention and safety solutions and messaging to benefit workers, the public and the environment…become a DIRT reporter now! It’s easier than ever. Just as a reminder, ALL data collected by BCCGA is anonymous and confidential and is used to produce the annual National DIRT Report.  This…

Training and Education at BCCGA

BCCGA is not a training provider. That said, we work with our members to ensure that education around safe digging practices is available and meets minimum requirements. The training and certification requirements to perform work in BC depends on who you are performing work for.…

CER Feedback on Onshore Pipeline Regulations (OPR)

The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) continues to seek feedback for the Phase 2 review of the Onshore Pipeline Regulations (OPR) and the Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment and Lands portion of the Filing Manuals (FM). In July, CER hosted virtual information sessions to provide general information about the…

CER Efficiency Project

The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) is considering replacing the Section 58 Streamlining Order and the Decommissioning Exemption Order with a simplified project review process for certain negligible-risk and low-risk activities. Project details and a Discussion Paper are posted on the CER Dialogue Page. The CER is…

CSA Z260 Pipeline System Safety Metrics – Comments open

The Public Review for the new edition of CSA Z260 Pipeline system safety metrics has opened and will remain live until August 31st. If you would like to review the draft and leave your comments, you can do so by going here: https://publicreview.csa.ca/Home/Details/5356. Please feel free to circulate…

It’s Public Works Week!

BCCGA recognizes Public Works Week as a time to celebrate everyone who contributes to BC’s public infrastructure and services!    See BC 1 Call’s blog post giving a shout out to all those in both the public and private sectors dedicated to public works, including a great many…

April is Safe Digging Month!

April 1st marks the official start of Dig Safe Month across Canada! The BC Common Ground Alliance and its members have designated April as Dig Safe Month in BC and have received a formal proclamation from the Province – we had a great day in…

Safe Digging Month Contest @TransMtn

Don’t make a “dig” mistake, test your #safedigging knowledge and be entered for chance to win! We’re joining @TransMtn to raise awareness for #DigSafe month and protect underground infrastructure. ➡️ www.transmountain.com/safe-digging

WorkSafeBC 2024 Planned Inspectional Initiatives 

WorkSafeBC has updated its Planned Inspectional Initiatives to reflect their areas of focus and prevention activities for 2024.   WorkSafeBC’s Planned Inspectional Initiatives (previously known as High Risk Strategies and Industry Initiatives) support effective management of risks by examining and promoting occupational health and safety basics…

DIRT Lunch & Learn

We incorporated January’s Lunch & Learn into our Member meeting and heard from our DIRT Committee the exciting news that DIRT will have a fresh look and feel in February – it’s very exciting! You can find the DIRT Presentation on the Lunch & Learn…

2022 National DIRT Report Available

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) recently shared the 6th annual CCGA National DIRT (Damage Information Reporting Tool) Report for 2022. This report dives into the characteristics, themes, and contributing factors behind buried infrastructure damages in Canada, as reported through the DIRT reporting system. Underground…

Looking for a Public Awareness Job?

TransMountain Pipelines is currently hiring a Public Awareness Coordinator. If you or someone you know might be interested in/qualified for the job, please check out the link below. The position is based in Burnaby, BC. Thank you! https://careers.transmountain.com/job/Burnaby-Public-Awareness-Coordinator-Brit/728160047/

New Membership Rates

The Executive approved the new membership rates and they have been posted on our website.   We have also included a list of membership benefits and a link to the membership application form. We will be sending Membership invoices for 2024 in late December/early January.…

Revised regulations require work zone risk assessment

Whenever crews work on underground infrastructure along the roadside, they’re in danger of being struck by passing vehicles. Working at the side of a road for any reason and for any amount of time means they’re considered roadside workers. And that means their employers have specific responsibilities…

Excavation Safety Alliance Virtual Town Halls

What are the best ways to avoid cross bores? May 11 @ 10:30 CDT Register by May 11th here and access past sessions. Safety Alliance (ESA) virtual Town Halls are an open forum for all stakeholders to discuss concerns and present potential solutions to improve…

CSA Standards Now Available for Free!

Great news for those working in the oil and gas industry – several Canadian Standards Association (CSA) technical standards are now available for free online access for one year. The CER and the Western Regulators Forum have been working with the CSA Group to allow Canadians to…

“Dig Safe” – Everyone’s Responsibility

25 April 2023 | CER Website April is “Dig Safe” month. It’s a good time to remind people about safe practices anytime they’re digging, whether it’s for their job or at home. It’s important to know what is underground, such as buried pipelines or utility lines,…

“QR Code” Before You Dig? Why Not?

Mike Sullivan – President, Utility Safety Partners  Print this Article | Send to Colleague Given the proliferation of QR Codes, I recently developed the ClickBeforeYouDig QR Code and strongly suggest it be incorporated in all damage prevention awareness programs and promotional documentation. It has been provided to…

DIRT Deadline March 31st!

Upload Damage and Near-Miss Data by March 31 The DIRT data submission deadline of March 31 is fast approaching!  All 2022 data must be submitted by this deadline to be included in the 2022 Annual DIRT Report.  Your data is critical to helping the damage prevention industry…

It’s Agriculture Safety Week – March 13 to 19

Agriculture Safety Week in Canada is March 13-19, 2023. The CER wants to remind everyone about working safely on farms, especially when working near pipelines. Feel free to share these post on your own accounts! English: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn  French: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Calling All Locators!

The ASTTBC registered utility locator certification program is the first of its kind in BC. It is designed to recognize the competencies of locators who work in various industries and to deliver an enhanced level of public safety. Learn more here. ASTTBC is in consultation…

BCCGA DIRT Committee and 2022 Data Deadline

We are seeking members to join the BCCGA DIRT Committee with our new Committee Chair, Jimmy Yip of Fortis BC. We encourage more people to make the routine submissions, and so it will be great to get a few folks together to discuss the possibility.…

Contractor Breakfast November 18th – Table Top Display Opportunities

Special Opportunity! The BC Common Ground Alliance (BCCGA) invites our member companies to join with our sponsors – ICBA, FortisBC an TransMountain – in displaying  their products and services with a table-top display at our upcoming contractor breakfast. DATE:                          Friday, November 18, 2022 TIME:                          Set up 6:30…