Category: News

The Irrigation Industry Association of British Columbia (IIABC) has launched a new pilot certification program, Train the Trainer, alongside their Professional Development Workshops taking place at their upcoming Conference and Tradeshow in Abbotsford from November 17th to 19th. IIABC is pleased to extend member pricing to BCCGA members…

Please find attached Safety Advisory SA 2025-02. The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) expects regulated companies to demonstrate a proactive commitment to continual improvement in safety, security, and environmental protection, and to promote a positive safety culture as part of their management systems. Preventing damage to…

Join BCCSA for two energizing days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration at the 2025 BC Construction Health & Safety Conference. October 23 and 24, 2025 – Executive Plaza Hotel in Coquitlam Conference Features: Connect with industry leaders, network with peers, and access practical tools to…

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…

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…

Follow us on LinkedIn for more…. Land use evolves with new residential developments, schools, hospitals, and transportation. Each change can increase the risk to buried infrastructure.That’s why Land Use Monitoring is a critical element of a damage prevention program. It ensures operators are:📝 Tracking changes…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

The Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services is one of eleven permanent committees of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. The Committee holds an annual public consultation on the provincial budget.  We were again invited to present to the Committee at the end of…

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…

On behalf of CAPULC –> Exciting news! CAPULC has recently launched an initiative to help drive recruitment efforts for Underground Facility Locators. As part of this initiative, we are using a survey to collect information on the Underground Facility Locator career. The survey captures two…

We want to send out a HUGE thank you to our panel of regulators who braved our Member Meeting on July 17, 2025. Our panel included: Check out their Bios! If you missed it, check out the video.

The CER is seeking input one their Regulator Framework Plan.

On behalf of PW Trechless Contruction Inc. Join PW Trechless for a Lunch & Learn focused on resilient underground infrastructure and how proactive asset management, trenchless technologies, and practical solutions like sliplining can modernize aging systems and reduce long-term costs. This session brings together municipal…

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance is excited to hold its 2025 Damage Prevention Symposium, in person, at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront, November 4th – 6th, 2025! This event is a signature event for the CCGA attracting over 200+ damage prevention management professionals and decision makers from…

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…

Protecting workers, the environment and the public is a year-round responsibility! Are you on LinkedIn? FOLLOW BC Common Ground Alliance, LIKE and SHARE our safety posts – check out the latest one HERE! Together we can make workers and the public safe!

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…

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…

Are you ready to transform the excavation industry in your area? Join your peers in an initiative that enhances your personal projects and elevates the entire community. Start entering data into the Dirt Report today and discover how you can make a difference! The Damage…

Join our newsfeed now and receive a FREE one-year Individual BCCGA membership—your gateway to a wealth of exclusive benefits! Sign up from our Home page by entering your Name and Email address. As a member, you’ll engage with fellow professionals, access invaluable resources, and enhance…

CTV News | By Ian Holliday | April 15, 2025 One contractor is dead and another is injured after a fire at a natural gas plant north of Fort St. John, B.C. The fire broke out Monday evening around 6 p.m., when workers “struck a pipe”…

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…

Excavators in British Columbia have the opportunity to set a new benchmark for safety and efficiency by adopting the Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) best practices. These guidelines are designed to protect not only your crew and equipment but also the vital underground infrastructure that…

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…

Fortis BC | April 15, 2025 Contractor engagement in damage prevention training is creating a significant decline in gas line strikes SURREY, B.C.—April 15, 2025: FortisBC Energy Inc. (FortisBC) is celebrating a major safety milestone, with gas line damages in 2024 at their lowest level in…

Journal of Commerce | DCN-JOC News Services | April 10, 2025 VANCOUVER — April is Safe Digging Month in B.C. and as such BC 1 Call is reiterating to the digging community, along with the owners of underground infrastructure, the importance of clicking or calling before they dig.  “Who hasn’t…

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…

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…

Dig Safe Month is designed to coincide with the unofficial start of spring digging season and to serve as a reminder to homeowners and contractors that they need to Click or Call before they start digging. Ensuring the safety of those who work or live…

It’s finally Safe Digging Month and BCCGA and our members are in Victoria to visit the Legislature and educate our MLAs about planning ahead and safe digging practices to keep their communities safe.

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…

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:…

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. The BCCGA and its members encourage homeowners and contractors to PLAN AHEAD and Click or Call Before You Dig…

For your organization’s data to be included in the analysis for the 2024 DIRT Report, submissions must be completed by February 28th. If you need help, please email us at info@commongroundbc.ca

We are thrilled to launch our Social Media Influencer Program and we want YOU to be a part of it! We’re looking for two enthusiastic members who are ready to step into the spotlight as our Ambassadors. If you are passionate about promoting damage prevention…

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…

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…

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!

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…

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…

Richmond News | https://www.richmond-news.com/writers/mrantanen | December 4, 2024 FortisBC took the matter to the Civil Resolution Tribunal and was awarded more than $4,000. A construction company has been ordered to pay FortisBC more than $4,000 in compensation after the gas company claimed it damaged a…

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…

Victoria | November 18, 2024 | Press Release Premier David Eby has appointed a new cabinet that is ready to listen to British Columbians and deliver on the core challenges people are facing – a team that combines years of experience and fresh perspectives from outside…

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…

Register Now! Course objectives: The objectives of this course are to provide you with the knowledge and skills so that you can: Course description: This intermediate course will provide participants with an in-depth knowledge of underground utility hazards.  Students will use the locating tools used…

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 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…

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.…

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…

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!…

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…

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.…

On behalf of Canada Energy Regulator -> You are invited to participate in a regulatory engagement for the Commission of the Canada Energy Regulator’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (the Rules).     Background    The National Energy Board Rules of Practice and Procedure, 1995 govern the procedures to be followed during…

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…

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…

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…

On behalf of Canada Energy Regulator OPR and FM Project Team – Engagement for Phase 2 of the Canada Energy Regulator Onshore Pipeline Regulations (OPR) and the Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment and Lands portion of the Filing Manuals officially launched today (17 June 2024) and…

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 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…

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

As the only database of its kind, CGA’s Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) is the backbone of our industry’s efforts to reduce damages and create safer jobsites and communities. The annual DIRT Report’s analysis of how, when and why damages occur has created the framework for our “50…

Explore the crucial world of excavation safety in Excavation Safety Alliance‘s upcoming Town Hall, centred around the impact of private locators. With unmarked utilities posing risks and causing delays, discover how private locators play a pivotal role. Join Excavation Safety Alliance to delve into real-world…

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…

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…

Delta Hotels Regina | November 4th – 6th, 2024 The Canadian Common Ground Alliance is excited to announce our Call for Papers for the 2024 CCGA Damage Prevention Symposium. To be considered, please complete the submission process and be sure to include all pertinent details.…

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…

The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) has released full details of an Administrative Monetary Penalty (AMP) issued to Minell Pipeline Ltd. The amount of the penalty is $52,000.  The penalty stems from an investigation into a pipeline rupture on October 5, 2021, near McAuley, Manitoba. A…

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/

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.…

Canadian Occupational Safety | November 15, 2023 | By Shane Mercer In a groundbreaking decision, Canada’s Supreme Court has ruled that municipalities can be held legally responsible for accidents on construction sites, even when they lack direct control over the workers or the workplace. This landmark…

If you didn’t get a chance to attend our November Member meeting, or even if you did, check out the presentation by Troy De Souza of SPX about how Ground Penetrating Radar compliments Precision Locators. Check out the Presentation and check out these additional resources…

On behalf of Linestar Utility Supply Inc. We like to invite you for : Impulse Radar Raptor 3D Array Seminar and Demonstration When: Wednesday November 1st,  9AM to 12 Noon  ~ Lunch Provided Location: Hilton Vancouver Metrotown  (Tiffany A Room)  6083 McKay Avenue, Burnaby ,B.C. V5H2W7…

October’s ESA Town Hall is all about big data and we’ve put together an incredible panel to lead the discussion! From call centers to asset owners, contract locators, and technology providers – the industry has a lot of valuable and repetitive information that could be…

Located in Calgary, Alberta, the Canada Energy Regulator (Canadian Energy Regulator) is an independent energy lifecycle regulator responsible for federally regulated pipelines and power lines, energy development and trade. The Canada Energy Regulator also provides energy information to Canadians. As such, the CER sits at…

Join FortisBC and BCCGA on August 11th for a BBQ and baseball game at Nat Bailey stadium. The Vancouver Canadians are playing the Tri City Dust Devils. Parking is $10.  Wise words from the patron safety saint of the Social Committee (Don), if you plan to drink,…

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…

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…

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…

BCMSA is hosting in partnership with the BCCSA an Open Enrollment 3-day Utility Locate Specialist course at Langley Airport June 13-15, 2023! This training is Classroom & Hands on Practical so bring your PPE and Locate Equipment and register here. Course information can be found…

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac | November 21st – 23rd, 2023 The Canadian Common Ground Alliance is excited to hold its 2023 Damage Prevention Symposium, in person, at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Quebec, November 21st – 23rd, 2023! This event is a signature event for the…

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,…

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…

Postponed to a later date. Anyone planning to dig and disturb ground should know how to dig safely and avoid costly repairs to underground utilities.  If you are involved with ground disturbance in any way, you and your whole crew should be at this free…

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…

We hope you join us! Anyone planning to dig and disturb ground should know how to dig safely and avoid costly repairs to underground utilities.  If you are involved with ground disturbance in any way, you and your whole crew should be at this free…

As of January 1, 2023, licensed contractors are required to publish their company name and Technical Safety BC (TSBC) licence number when advertising regulated services to the public. Adding your TSBC licence number to your ads will help home and business owners easily determine who…

Canada Energy Regulator  The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has released its final investigation report on the 2021 Minell Pipeline incident. A farmer ruptured a natural gas pipeline in McAuley, Manitoba, while using a tractor to maintain a water drainage channel in his field. The pipeline…

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

The Canadian Association of Pipeline and Utility Locating Contractors (CAPULC) is proud to announce the successful completion and launch of the Underground Facility Locating and Marking Standard. As a leading industry association representing companies involved in locating buried facilities across Canada, CAPULC has over 100…

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…

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.…

Check out BC 1 Call’s latest newsletter which covers important and useful updates, including on the following:

Released for Final FeedbackCanadian Association of Pipeline and Utility Locating Contractors (CAPULC) has released their Pilot Draft of the Underground Facility Locating and Marking Standard. CAPULC’s objective was to develop a national line locating standard to ensure consistent practices across the country while allowing for…