Canadian Common Ground Alliance News

CCGA Board of Directors – Release Announcement

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:05:27 GMT

2024 Canadian Common Ground Alliance DIRT Report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the official release of the 2024 CCGA National DIRT (Damage Information Reporting Tool) Report. This annual report provides a comprehensive, data-driven overview of damage trends across Canada and is an essential resource for all stakeholders committed to advancing damage prevention and public safety.

Based on damage reports submitted by stakeholders from across the country, the 2024 DIRT Report offers national insights into root causes, high-risk behaviours, reporting trends, and opportunities for improvement. This year’s analysis continues to highlight the importance of collaboration among contractors, locators, infrastructure owners, and Regional Common Ground Alliances in reducing damages and strengthening Canada’s damage prevention culture.

Important Note: Socio-Economic Cost Estimate Under Review

The Board wishes to advise readers that the Socio-Economic Cost Estimate section, which has historically provided a national estimate of the broader economic impacts of underground infrastructure damages, is temporarily withheld from this edition.

The CCGA’s updated socio-economic costing model, currently undergoing quality review and validation with our consultant, has presented results that require further analysis to ensure clarity, consistency, and confidence for all stakeholders.

Once the model review is completed and formally accepted by the CCGA Board of Directors, the updated Socio-Economic Cost Estimate section will be added to the 2024 DIRT Report and re-released.

Commitment to Transparency and Continuous Improvement

The CCGA remains committed to providing accurate, credible, and actionable national damage data. We appreciate the ongoing collaboration of our partners and stakeholders as we continue to strengthen the quality and value of Canada’s damage prevention information. Stakeholders will be notified as soon as the updated section is available.

Click to access the DIRT reports on the CCGA Publications webpage

CCGA DIRT Report Estimates Damage to Buried Utilities Continues to Cost Canada in excess of $1 Billion Every Year

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 17:02:17 GMT

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) released the 2021 Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) Report today. This report presents characteristics, themes and contributing factors leading to buried energy and utility damages in Canada as reported via the DIRT system.

In 2021, there were 11,403 damages reported via DIRT for Canada; on average, this is more than 45 reported damages per workday. The societal cost of these damages to underground infrastructure in Canada continues to be estimated in excess of $1 billion per year.

Among all damage reports with an identified and known root cause, 27% occurred because no locate was made to a One Call Centre and 31% were the result of insufficient excavation practices.

A new table was added to the CCGA report this year capturing the number of parties reporting data into the provincial /regional partner DIRT data. This metric adds context to the number of damages reported in each province - particularly when considered relative to population - and illustrates the ongoing challenge of data collection across the country.

While reporting damages in DIRT continues to be voluntary, the data is critical for the CCGA to determine root causes and develop mitigating measures to reduce and eliminate them.

Highlights:

11,403 damages voluntarily reported in 2021 – a drop of 1% from 2020
More than 45 damages occurred per work day
27% of damages are the direct result of not making a locate request to a One Call Centre – Up 5% from 2020
Damages cost Canadians in excess of a $1 Billion annually

The complete 2021 DIRT Report is available to download at www.canadiancga.com. Stakeholders interested in submitting data to the 2022 report, or establishing a Virtual Private Dirt account, should visit the DIRT website at www.cga-dirt.com.

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing public safety, and increasing the integrity and reliability of Canada’s underground utility infrastructure through the development and implementation of effective and efficient damage prevention practices across Canada. As Canada’s unified voice on damage prevention, the CCGA attracts members from all Canadian national organizations and associations who share common damage prevention and public safety solutions. The CCGA and its Regional Partners welcome all stakeholders who wish to be part of the identification and promotion of best practices that reduce damage to buried utilities.

Doug Lapp
Chair
Canadian Common Ground Alliance

Media Inquiries: info@CanadianCGA.com

“Dig Safe” – Everyone’s Responsibility

Sun, 08 May 2022 15:49:38 GMT

April is “Dig Safe” month, a good time to remind people about safe digging practices when working in the ground for their job or at their homes. It’s important to know what kind of infrastructure like pipelines, or utility lines, are buried underground before starting any kind of project. Click Before You Dig is the best way to find out.

CCGA Releases 2020 DIRT Report

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 17:41:51 GMT

CCGA DIRT Report Estimates Damage to Buried Utilities Continues to Cost Canada at Least $1 Billion Every Year. Please see the CCGA's News Release for more information.

Link to 2020 DIRT Report.

CCGA Virtual Public Awareness Workshop is Scheduled

Thu, 21 May 2020 14:46:32 GMT

There was considerable interest in the CCGA's Virtual Public Awareness Workshop which has been scheduled Thursday May 28 between 0830hrs and 1130hrs.

This session will be devoted to the development of a damage prevention awareness and education matrix recommending a series of actions for all stakeholders; effectively broadening and adding strength to the foundation of education messaging.

If you wish to participate in this free session, please contact Ms Gloria Jackman.

Annulation du symposium 2020 sur la prévention des dommages

Thu, 14 May 2020 16:29:16 GMT

Le CCGA annule le symposium 2020 sur la prévention des dommages prévu du 26 au 29 octobre au River Cree Resort and Casino d’Edmonton, en Alberta. Bien que les entreprises commencent à rouvrir un peu partout au pays, le CCGA, étant un organisme dédié à la sécurité, a décidé d’annuler cet événement phare par excès de prudence.

« Notre souci est le bien-être des Canadiens et des amis du monde entier qui viennent au Canada pour participer à notre symposium annuel, » a mentionné Todd Scott, président du CCGA, après avoir pris cette décision lors de la réunion du conseil du CCGA du mercredi 13 mai. « Nous devons annuler cet événement afin de protéger la santé de chaque participant et le bien-être de nos communautés. »

Le CCGA envisage plusieurs options pour la création d’un symposium virtuel cet automne et espère qu’il sera possible de participer en personne au symposium sur la prévention des dommages en 2021.

CCGA Cancels 2020 Damage Prevention Symposium

Thu, 14 May 2020 16:27:49 GMT

The CCGA is cancelling the 2020 Damage Prevention Symposium scheduled October 26 to 29 at the River Cree Resort and Casino in Edmonton, Alberta. Although businesses are beginning to re-open in various parts of the country, the CCGA, as a safety organization, and through an abundance of caution, has chosen to cancel its cornerstone event.

“Our focus is on the well-being of Canadians and our friends around the globe who come to Canada to attend our annual symposium” said CCGA Chair, Todd Scott, following the CCGA Executive meeting held Wednesday, May 13 when the decision was made. “For the sake of everyone’s health, and the continued well-being of our communities, we need to cancel the event.”

The CCGA is now exploring options to host a virtual symposium in the fall and looks forward to returning to the Damage Prevention Symposium in 2021.

Atelier virtuel — Sensibilisation du public

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 20:03:30 GMT

Le CCGA planifiera bientôt à un atelier virtuel avec des représentants en prévention des dommages et en sensibilisation du public. Ils seront responsables de la création d’une grille où les responsabilités élargies en matière de sensibilisation du public seront définies pour tous les intervenants du CCGA : propriétaires d’infrastructures souterraines ainsi que les personnes susceptibles de perturber le sol. Cette grille a pour but d’établir les seuils de formation et de sensibilisation en prévention des dommages afin que les messages et l’appropriation de ceux-ci atteignent les objectifs souhaités.

Si vous ou l’un de vos collègues désirez être inscrits à l’atelier virtuel Sensibilisation du public, veuillez faire parvenir vos noms et adresses courriel à la directrice du CCGA, Mme Gloria Jackman.

Virtual Public Awareness Workshop

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 20:00:31 GMT

The CCGA will be scheduling a virtual workshop in the near future with damage prevention and public awareness representatives to develop an education and awareness matrix that broadens public awareness responsibilities among all CCGA stakeholders – asset owners and ground disturbers alike. The matrix seeks to establish damage prevention education and awareness thresholds, messaging and ownership of same to reach desired objectives.

If you or any of your colleagues wish to register for the Virtual Public Awareness Workshop, please send names and email addresses to CCGA Administrator, Ms Gloria Jackman.

CCGA élargit ses critères d’adhésion aux propriétaires d’infrastructures souterraines ayant des réseaux à l’échelle nationale

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 19:28:35 GMT

C’est la première fois que le CCGA élargit ses critères d’adhésion afin d’inclure les propriétaires d’infrastructures souterraines ayant des réseaux à l’échelle nationale (comme les entreprises de télécommunications, de pipelines et de réseaux interprovinciaux de transport d’énergie). Le CCGA s’engage à établir et à assurer un dialogue sur la gestion de la prévention des dommages avec les propriétaires d’infrastructures souterraines sous réglementation fédérale afin d’élaborer à l’échelle nationale des formations et des programmes de sensibilisation cohérents et plus efficaces. L’adhésion au CCGA ne remplacera pas celle auprès des partenaires régionaux du CGA canadien. Si votre entreprise est déjà membre ou est un commanditaire de l’un ou l’autre des partenaires régionaux du CGA canadien, ces relations doivent être maintenues.

Pour plus d’informations afin de devenir membre, veuillez visiter la page Demande d’adhésion du site Web du CCGA. Si vous désirez devenir membre, défilez jusqu’au bas de la page, sélectionnez votre niveau ou la catégorie d’adhésion, puis suivez les étapes jusqu’à ce que l’adhésion soit complétée. Si vous avez besoin d’un reçu, veuillez envoyer votre demande au comptable du CCGA, M. Gary Laycraft.

CCGA Membership Opens to Buried Asset Owners with National Footprint

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 19:25:13 GMT

For the first time, the CCGA has opened membership to buried asset owners with a national footprint; ie: interprovincial transmission pipeline and telecommunication companies. The CCGA seeks to engage and secure a direct dialogue with these federally regulated buried asset owners in relation to damage prevention governance and develop more robust and consistent national education and awareness practices. Membership with the CCGA is not intended to replace same with CGA Regional Partners in Canada. In fact, if your company is already a member or sponsor of one or more of the CGA Regional Partners in Canada, those affiliations need to continue.

To learn more about membership, please go to the Member Application page on the CCGA website. If you wish to become a member, scroll down on that page, select your membership level / category and follow the steps to completion. If you do require an invoice, please contact CCGA Accountant, Mr. Gary Laycraft, and one will be sent to you.

CCGA Rapport Ordi 2018

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 14:55:59 GMT

Le rapport ORDI du CCGA estime que les dommages causés aux infrastructures souterraines continuent de coûter au Canada au moins un milliard de dollars par année. Voici le communiqué.

Rapport Ordi 2018.

CCGA Releases 2018 DIRT Report

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 14:48:41 GMT

CCGA DIRT Report Estimates Damage to Buried Utilities Continues to Cost Canada at Least $1 Billion Every Year. Please see the CCGA's News Release for more information.

Link to 2018 DIRT Report.

The CCGA's Position on Treasure Hunts / La position du CCGA sur la chasses au trésor

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 17:25:29 GMT

Please see this communiqué from the CCGA regarding recent Treasure Hunts in Canada.

Veuillez consulter ce communiqué de la GCAC au sujet des récentes chasses au trésor au Canada.

Promote your services, your company, your brand at the 2019 CCGA DPS!

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 21:35:57 GMT

This year's Damage Prevention Symposium in Niagara Falls features a Damage Prevention Theatre situated among exhibitor booths on the exhibitor floor. The Theatre will hold breakout sessions throughout the conference creating considerable foot-traffic on the exhibit floor and offers sponsorship opportunities promoting your brand on both sides of every panel.

If you are interested promoting your company, your brand, your service, your exhibitor booth or your presentation, please see the rate sheet and reply to Vicki@emailir.com or call 1-866-279-7755.

Addressing the Future of the CCGA / Aborder l'avenir de la CCGA

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 20:58:14 GMT

Please see the attached release / Veuillez consulter le communiqué ci-joint.

Addressing the Future of the CCGA_Aborder l'avenir de la CCGA.pdf

Canadian Common Ground Alliance DIRT Report Estimates Damage to Buried Utilities Continues to Cost Canada At Least $1 Billion Every Year

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 15:09:55 GMT

Report analyzes when damages to the nation’s infrastructure are most likely to occur

CALGARY, ALBERTA (Nov. 1, 2018) – The Canadian Common Ground Alliance released the 2017 Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) Report today during the national Damage Prevention Symposium in Whistler, B.C. This report presents characteristics, themes and contributing factors leading to damages in Canada as reported via the DIRT system.

In 2017, there were 11,383 damages reported via DIRT for Canada. On average, there were 45 reported damages per work day (assuming 254 work days per year). The societal cost of these damages to underground infrastructure in Canada is estimated to be at least $1 billion per year.

Among all damage reports with an identified and known root cause, the majority (51 percent) occurred because no locate request was made to a One Call Centre.

Highlights:

11,383 damages were reported in 2017
Nearly 45 damages occurred per work day.
70% of reported damages occurred in two provinces: Ontario (46%) and Alberta (24%).
51% of damages are the direct result of not making a locate request to a One Call Centre.
89% of damages involved natural gas and telecommunications facilities.
Damages are reported to DIRT on a voluntary basis and thus do not reflect the total damages that occur every year.

The Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) is designed to capture data following reports of damage to buried facilities from excavation activities. DIRT allows industry stakeholders in Canada and the United States to submit data anonymously to a comprehensive database. The database is used to identify the characteristics, themes and contributing factors leading to damages. Such findings are summarized in an annual DIRT report.

Reporting damages into the Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) is critical for the CCGA to determine the root causes of damages and develop mitigating measures to reduce and eliminate them.

The complete 2017 DIRT Report is available to download at www.canadiancga.com. Stakeholders interested in submitting data to the 2018 report or establish a Virtual Private Dirt account should visit the DIRT website at www.cga-dirt.com.

About CCGA

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Media Inquiries:

Mike Sullivan
Executive Director
Canadian Common Ground Alliance
msullivan@canadiancga.com

Download news release here.

Damage Prevention Symposium Receives Gold Seal Accreditation

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 20:29:27 GMT

We're excited to announce that the CCGA's Damage Prevention Symposium has received Gold Seal Accreditation from the Canadian Construction Association's Gold Seal Certification program.

You can now earn a Gold Seal Credit by attending our 2018 Damage Prevention Symposium in Whistler, BC from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1.

The Gold Seal Certification Program is a national construction standard of certification for management professionals in the heavy civil and construction industry.

To register for the 2018 Symposium, visit our Annual Symposium page.

Update on Bill S229 / Mise à jour sur - projet de loi S229

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 22:15:16 GMT

Please click HERE for more information on Bill S229 / Veuillez cliquez ICI pour plus d'information sur le projet de loi S229.

Veuillez cliquer sur ce lien pour plus d'information sur le projet de loi S229.

Bill S229 - Third Reading

Thu, 11 May 2017 18:25:04 GMT

The Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act passed 3rd Reading in the Senate May 2, 2017. Please CLICK HERE to read how it all went down in the Senate that day.

The CCGA wishes to thank all stakeholders for their support to achieve this milestone goal in our quest for damage prevention legislation.

Bill S-229 - Witness Testimony: Senator Grant Mitchell & CCGA Ex Dir Mike Sullivan

Sun, 05 Mar 2017 17:42:51 GMT

On February 14, 2017, Senator Grant Mitchell and CCGA Executive Director, Mike Sullivan, appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment & Natural Resources to provide testimony supporting bill S-229 - The Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act. Senator Mitchell's and Mike Sullivan's testimonies were followed by responding to questions from the Senate Standing Committee.

You may view their testimonies and response to the Committee's questions HERE.

Mike Sullivan's written testimony is available for viewing HERE.

The CCGA Announces New Vice Chair and Secretary

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 17:26:58 GMT

The CCGA is pleased to announce that Mr. Todd Scott, Chair of the Atlantic Canada Common Ground Alliance, and Manager of Safety & Operational Liability with Enbridge Gas New Brunswick, has accepted the role of CCGA Vice Chair; and, Mr. Ian Munro, President of the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance, has accepted the role of Secretary on the CCGA Board of Directors.

The Vice Chair vacancy occurred following the retirement of Mr. Dean Reeve from SaskEnergy earlier this year while the Secretary position was vacated by Mr. Scott upon his acceptance of the position of Vice Chair.

Nominations for the CCGA Executive are held every two years.

Ms Nathalie Moreau

Chair - CCGA

NEB Releases Engagement Survey Results for its Damage Prevention Regulations

Tue, 29 Nov 2016 15:05:19 GMT

The National Energy Board (NEB) released the results of its 'Engagement Survey' following release of the Damage Prevention Regulations (DPR) in June 2016. Survey results are available HERE.

The NEB regulates the construction and operation of interprovincial transmission pipelines, and the DPR regulates ground disturbance activities within 30 metres of those pipelines.

The NEB is a member of the Canadian Common Ground Alliance.

CCGA Releases 2015 National DIRT Report

Wed, 16 Nov 2016 15:28:21 GMT

National DIRT Report 2015 – Executive Summary

Each year, the CCGA Data Reporting and Evaluation Committee (DREC) collects information about damages to underground infrastructure reported in each province. In British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Quebec, the data is collected through voluntary submission of information into a Virtual Private DIRT (Damage Information Reporting Tool) database. In Atlantic Canada, information is reported directly by participating infrastructure owners. Manitoba does not submit data to the CCGA DREC.

The purpose of the National DIRT Report is to identify national trends over time. The challenge to this point has been that only Quebec, Ontario and to a lesser-extent, British Columbia have collected enough data over a significant amount of time to begin identifying trends with real confidence in the data. In addition, bringing in data from new provinces each year requires re-balancing the dataset, which can have unintended effects on trend analysis if you are looking at specific regions.

That is not to say that the national data does not have value, but only that in its current state, the data has to be analyzed in deeper detail in order to fully appreciate its indications. For example, if one province has an increase in construction activity, it will show a corresponding increase in reported damages; or if the provincial notification centre reduces overall notifications per ticket, the analysis will show an increase in damages per notification. Over the next 2-3 years, national data will continue to increase and improve in quality to where it will have enormous value in making recommendations on a national scale, as well as giving the damage prevention industry a relatively accurate estimate of the societal costs of third party damages on underground infrastructure.

In order to see the most accurate trend analysis for a particular region or province, it is best to go to the originating data source and review the DIRT report specific to that regional partner:

Ontario 2015 DIRT Report

Quebec 2015 DIRT Report

Western Canada 2015 DIRT Report

We hope that the presentation of National Data is useful to your organization. We encourage you to participate in reporting damages to your provincial CGA or provincial Virtual Private DIRT and say thank you to everyone who already does so. The data collected can have significant impact on training, education and marketing initiatives in the damage prevention industry.

Sher Kirk, Chair
Data Reporting and Evaluation Committee

National Best Practices Version 2.0

Mon, 14 Nov 2016 18:20:19 GMT

The CCGA released Version 2.0 of the National Best Practices at the 2016 CCGA Damage Prevention Symposium in Banff, Alberta. If you wish to secure hard copies ($10.00 each, plus shipping), please contact Ms Gloria Jackman.

CCGA is Giving Away a Grey Cup Package!

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 23:00:32 GMT

The CCGA is this year's Safety Sponsor for the Grey Cup and we're celebrating by offering two tickets to the big game in Toronto as well as two tickets to the CFL Awards and CFL Alumni Association Luncheon.

To play, all you have to do is follow @CanadianCGA on Twitter and retweet our Grey Cup message for a chance to win the tickets.

Please select this link to see our 2016 Grey Cup Tickets Giveaway Rules.

And remember - always #DigSafe and #ClickBeforeYouDig

Senator Don Plett's Support for Bill S-229

Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:27:54 GMT

Senator Don Plett rose in the Senate yesterday to support The Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act - Bill S-229.

His speech can be accessed HERE.

Bill S-229 Seeks to Prevent Damages and Improve Safety of Critical Underground Infrastructure

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 23:22:00 GMT

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) strongly supports Bill S-229, An Act respecting underground infrastructure safety, introduced by Senator Grant Mitchell, which entered Second Reading debate on October 4, 2016. This legislation will reduce the costs and increase safety associated with damages to our underground infrastructure by addressing the need for a mandated comprehensive call/click-before-you-dig notification system across Canada.

The members of the CCGA, which include the Canadian Gas Association (CGA), the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA), as well as other industry associations representing excavators, locators, road builders, telecommunications, railroad, water, landscapers, construction, engineering and design, encourage all Senators and Parliamentarians to support Bill S-229 and for the federal government to mandate a comprehensive notification system for locate requests before digging.

There is a system of underground infrastructure that delivers and transports the services that support us in our daily lives, including energy, television, telecommunications, water and sewage. As Senator Mitchell stated in the Senate “It’s a web of wires, pipes, fibre optics and oil and gas pipelines that are at the root of our quality of life and our standard of living.”

This legislation is in response to a report published by the Senate Committee on the Energy, Environment and Natural Resources in December 2014 that recommended all jurisdictions mandate the use of this type of notification system. While currently there are Call/Click Before you Dig systems in Canada, there is no legislation, except in Ontario, to require its use. Bill S-229 would ensure the system is comprehensive and effective for underground infrastructure on federal lands.

There is a significant amount of cost and damages from people who hit underground infrastructure when they are digging, whether it is from major construction projects or homeowners digging in their yard. In 2015, there were more than 10,000 voluntary reports of damage to underground infrastructure in Canada, of which 79 per cent caused a disruption to services.

According to a report conducted by CIRANO, an organization based in Quebec, entitled Socio-Economic Cost Assessment for Damages to Underground Infrastructures, there are more than the obvious direct costs, including the cost of the materials, labour costs and administrative costs related to the damages. There are also indirect costs related to the damage, including intervention of emergency services, evacuations, loss of products, environmental impact, economic impact on businesses and risk of injury or death.

While Bill S-229 covers underground infrastructure that is federally regulated or on federal lands, it is a positive step in the right direction. As Senator Mitchell stated, “this federal initiative can contribute to momentum for a national system. It is an opportunity for positive, collaborative national leadership.”

The CCGA’s vision is to be Canada's unified damage prevention voice and attract members from all Canadian national organizations and associations who share common damage prevention and public safety solutions.

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For more information, contact:

Mike Sullivan

Canadian Common Ground Alliance (c/o Alberta One-Call)

msullivan@canadiancga.com

403.531.3700

Second Reading - Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act

Thu, 06 Oct 2016 02:38:01 GMT

Senator Grant Mitchell rose in the Senate October 4, 2016 and moved the second reading of Bill S-229, An Act respecting underground infrastructure safety.

Please click HERE to read his speech.

Loi visant à accroître la sûreté des infrastructures souterraines déposé cet après-midi

Thu, 29 Sep 2016 19:01:22 GMT

Suite à des mois de rédaction et de révision et après plusieurs périodes de commentaires avec les intervenants, le projet de loi visant à accroître la sûreté des infrastructures souterraines a été déposé au Sénat cet après-midi par le sénateur Grant Mitchell.

Le texte établit un régime fédéral de notification sur les infrastructures souterraines qui exige notamment :

a)      que les exploitants d’une infrastructure souterraine qui relève de la compétence fédérale ou qui se trouve en territoire domanial l’inscrivent à un centre de notification et fournissent des renseignements à son sujet;
b)      que les personnes qui prévoient effectuer une perturbation du sol présentent une demande de localisation aux centres de notification concernés;
c)      que les exploitants d’une infrastructure souterraine inscrite, par suite d’une demande de localisation, soit marquent au sol l’emplacement de l’infrastructure souterraine, soit fournissent par écrit toute autre description claire et precise de l’emplacement de l’infrastructure souterraine, soit encore déclarent que la perturbation du sol n’est pas susceptible d’endommager l’infrastructure souterraine.

Enfin, le texte comporte un mécanisme permettant l’application de ce régime de notification aux réserves et à certaines autres terres assujetties à la Loi sur les Indiens, après consultation des conseils de bande concernés.

Le processus législatif du Sénat ressemble à celui de la Chambre des communes. Il comporte cinq étapes:

1. Première lecture
Le Sénat reçoit le projet de loi, qui est imprimé et distribué aux sénateurs. C'est une procédure de présentation au Sénat sans débat ni vote.

2. Deuxième lecture
Les sénateurs débattent du principe du projet de loi en chambre. S’agit-il d’un projet de loi judicieux? Pour y voir clair, le Sénat peut renvoyer le projet de loi à un comité sénatorial qui l’examinera de plus près avant de se prononcer à savoir s’il y a lieu d’y donner suite ou non.

3. Étude en comité
Le Sénat renvoie le projet de loi à l’un de ses comités. Le comité peut tenir des audiences publiques au cours desquelles il invite des ministres du Cabinet, des représentants du gouvernement, des spécialistes et de simples citoyens qui s’intéressent au projet de loi à discuter du projet de loi et à exprimer leur point de vue à ce sujet. Les membres du comité font ensuite l’étude détaillée du projet de loi, article par article, processus au cours duquel ils peuvent proposer des modifications du projet de loi, appelés amendements.

Après avoir terminé l’examen détaillé du projet de loi, le comité adopte un rapport sur le projet de loi dans lequel il recommande au Sénat d’adopter le projet de loi tel quel, de l’adopter avec des amendements ou de le rejeter. Les comités joignent souvent à leur rapport des observations à propos des points qui ont été soulevés pendant l’étude du projet de loi.

4. Étape du rapport
Si le comité recommande d’adopter le projet de loi tel quel, c’est-à-dire sans amendement, il n’y a pas d’étape du rapport au Sénat et le projet de loi passe directement à la troisième lecture.

Si le comité propose des amendements, les sénateurs doivent débattre du rapport au Sénat et accepter, modifier ou rejeter les amendements, en tout ou en partie.

5. Troisième lecture
Dernière étape du débat au Sénat. Les sénateurs peuvent proposer d’autres amendements à ce stade avant le vote aboutissant à l’adoption ou au rejet du projet de loi.

Si le projet de loi a été présenté au Sénat, il est envoyé à la Chambre des communes, qui l’étudie selon un processus similaire en trois étapes de lecture. Si le projet de loi a été présenté à la Chambre des communes et qu’il n’a pas été amendé par le Sénat, il est prêt à recevoir la sanction royale.

Par contre, si le projet de loi a été présenté à la Chambre des communes et qu’il a été amendé par le Sénat, un message concernant ces amendements est expédié à la Chambre des communes pour lui demander son assentiment. Si le Sénat et la Chambre des communes ne s’entendent pas sur la teneur d’un projet de loi, ils peuvent proposer des amendements jusqu'à ce qu’il y ait entente à ce sujet. Lorsque les deux Chambres ont convenu d’une version finale, la sanction royale est octroyée au projet de loi par la reine ou l’un de ses représentants au Canada (habituellement le gouverneur général ou son remplaçant) et le projet de loi acquiert alors force de loi.

Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act Tabled Today

Thu, 29 Sep 2016 17:24:50 GMT

Following several months of review with stakeholders, including a transparent comment period in early 2016, the Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act was tabled by Senator Grant Mitchell in the Senate this afternoon.

This bill creates a federal underground infrastructure notification system that requires, among other things,

a) operators of underground infrastructure that is federally regulated or that is located on federal land to register that underground infrastructure with a notification centre and provide information on it;
b) persons planning to undertake a ground disturbance to make a locate request to the relevant notification centres; and
c) operators of registered underground infrastructure, as a result of the locate request, to mark the location of the underground infrastructure on the ground, provide in writing any other accurate and clear description of the location of the underground infrastructure or indicate that the ground disturbance is not likely to cause damage to the underground infrastructure.

Finally, the enactment also provides a mechanism by which reserves and some other lands subject to the Indian Act can become subject to this notification system, after consultation with the council of any band in question.

There are five steps to passing a bill in the Senate:

1. First reading
The Senate receives the bill, and it is printed and circulated among senators. This is an introductory proceeding in the Senate Chamber and takes place without debate or vote.

2. Second reading
Senators debate the principle of the bill in the Chamber (Is the bill good policy?). To help with this process, the Senate may refer the subject matter of the bill to a Senate committee for closer examination before voting on whether to proceed with it.

3. Committee stage
The Senate refers the bill to one of its committees. The committee may invite Cabinet ministers, Government officials, experts, and members of the public who have an interest in the bill to share information and perspectives in public hearings. Committee members then study the bill clause by clause. Members of the committee may propose changes to the bill (known as amendments) during this process.

After it has completed the clause-by-clause analysis, the committee adopts a report on the bill. The report will recommend to the Senate that the bill be accepted as is; that it be accepted with amendments; or that it be rejected. Committees often also append observations to their report. These comments may highlight issues raised by the committee’s study of the bill.

4. Report stage
If the committee’s report recommends adopting the bill as is (i.e., with no amendments), there is no report stage in the Senate and the bill goes directly to third reading. If, however, the report suggests amendments to the bill, senators must debate the report in the Senate Chamber and either accept, amend, or reject the amendments, in whole or in part.

5. Third reading
This is the final stage of debate in the Chamber. Senators may propose further amendments at this stage before voting to pass or reject the bill.

If the bill was introduced in the Senate, it is sent to the House of Commons, which will examine it in a similar three-reading process. If the bill was introduced in the House of Commons and was not amended in the Senate, it is now ready for Royal Assent.

If a bill is introduced in the House of Commons and was amended in the Senate, a message about the amendments is sent to the Commons, asking for their agreement. If the Senate and the House of Commons do not agree on the contents of a bill, they may propose amendments until they reach agreement. Once the two Houses agree on a final version, the bill is granted Royal Assent by the Queen or one of her Canadian representatives (usually the Governor General or a deputy), making it law.

DigSafe Month and the CCGA Recognized in the Senate

Fri, 22 Apr 2016 16:20:43 GMT

The CCGA wishes to thank Senator Grant Mitchell for recognizing DigSafe Month in the Senate yesterday, April 21, 2016.

Senator Mitchell has become a champion for safe digging in Canada and has been instrumental in helping the CCGA achieve greater safety for all Canadians and further enhancing the integrity of Canada's critical underground infrastructure.

Please click HERE to read Senator Mitchell's speech or click this link to hear it: Mitchell_21apr16_DigSafeMonth.04.21.2016.mp3

Draft II - Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act (previously Bill S-233) Released for Comment

Thu, 03 Mar 2016 03:43:03 GMT

To all Interested Parties:

On behalf of the Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act Team, I am pleased to present you with the second draft of the proposed Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act (previously Bill S-233). This second draft is posted for a 25-day comment period closing midnight Eastern Time March 28, 2016.

Using this form, please submit all comments, questions and feedback via email or fax (below) under the subject heading:

COMMENTS - Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act

By Email: DamagePreventionCanada@gmail.com

By Fax: (403) 531-3703

All feedback will be provided to the Underground Infrastructure Safety Enhancement Act Team for consideration into the final version of the Bill.

Thank you,

Mike Sullivan - Executive Director, CCGA

Bill S-233 - Comments & Feedback

Tue, 02 Feb 2016 06:45:05 GMT

Damage Prevention Partners,

Comments provided by interested parties on the proposed language of Bill S-233, and feedback from the Bill S-233 Team, are posted in this matrix.

In the coming weeks, the CCGA will release Version 2 of Bill S-233, post it to the CCGA website and notify its members and damage prevention stakeholders by email and social media. Once released, a 25 day comment period will begin. When the comment period has closed, the Bill S-233 Team will once again review all comments, generate the final version of the Bill and present it to Senator Grant Mitchell (April 2016).

On behalf of the Canadian Common Ground Alliance, I wish to thank the Bill S-233 Team and Senator Grant Mitchell for their dedication to this initiative.

Mike Sullivan, Executive Director - CCGA

Update on Bill S-233 - Federal Damage Prevention Legislation

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 18:30:00 GMT

After several weeks of conference calls with Parliamentary Counsel and Kyle Johnston, Senator Mitchell’s Legislative Assistant on Bill S-233, which died on paper this year when the federal government called for the elections, we are very close to releasing responses to comments and feedback received during the consultation process on the Bill. We still have a couple of minor points to clarify but once those are addressed, the Bill will be revised accordingly with new language. Senator Mitchell intends to table a new version of the bill, which will have taken into account comments received by stakeholders, in 2016.

In an effort to be as transparent as possible, a new draft version of the Bill will be circulated after the release of those responses to the CCGA Board of Directors (all info will also be posted to the CCGA website). At that time, Directors will be requested to channel the correspondence to their respective stakeholders for a second round of comments. Once the second comment period has closed (beginning of March), the Bill S-233 Team will resume the same process we are completing with this first round; revising the 2nd version of the Bill accordingly and posting version 3 of the Bill to the CCGA website. This 3rd version will not be circulated for comment. Rather, it will go to Senator Mitchell to commence the process of re-tabling the Bill in Parliament.

Sincerely,

Mike Sullivan - Executive Director, CCGA

CSA Z247 - Damage Prevention for the Protection of Underground Infrastructure - now Available for Purchase in French

Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:00:28 GMT

Click HERE to be re-directed to the Canadian Standards Association's products and publications page to secure your copy of CSA Z247.

Canadian Energy Pipeline Association Releases 2015 Pipeline Industry Performance Report

Thu, 05 Nov 2015 21:29:57 GMT

The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association's (CEPA) 2015 Pipeline Industry Performance Report shares the recent performance of the Canadian transmission pipeline industry and the actions CEPA’s member companies are taking to improve safety, lessen environmental impacts and achieve operational excellence.

Learn more about the Report and download it HERE.

Fall edition of the ORCGA's Ear to the Ground eMagazine now Available

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 15:18:30 GMT

The Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance's Ear to the Ground eMagazine is available online. Learn what's happening in Canada's largest province.

There's always something going on underground.

Western Canada Damage Prevention Professional eMagazine now Available

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 13:15:13 GMT

The latest edition of the Western Canada Damage Prevention Professional eMagazine is now online. Get up to date on damage prevention initiatives in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia!

ClickBeforeYouDig.com Access Now Available in the U.S.

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 20:42:51 GMT

www.ClickBeforeYouDig.com, Canada's online one-window approach to initiating the damage prevention process, opened it's cyber doors to the U.S. last week. "Whether ground disturbance is occurring in Canada, the United States, or anywhere in the world, damage prevention has no boundaries and neither does the World Wide Web", states Sher Kirk, Chair of the Canadian One Call Centres Committee and Director of Operations for Alberta One-Call. "With more people going to the web to initiate the damage prevention process, the portal needed to expand. It was never intended to be limited to Canada."

"Additionally", advises Ms Nathalie Moreau, incoming Chair of the CCGA and Director General with Info-Excavation, "many of our transmission pipeline members' facilities traverse into the U.S. and they've been asking when they might be able to utilize and promote the URL along with the 811 brand. Now, they can."

The one-window portal allows any person to submit an online locate request from any One-Call Centre in Canada or the United States 24hrs/day, 7 days/wk, 365 days/yr.

Just point and click - it's that easy!

CCGA Releases 2014 DIRT Report

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 14:29:09 GMT

The CCGA has released the 2014 DIRT Report for the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. This aggregate report, providing data relative to reported damages, is focused on determining root causes that will in turn allow Regional Partners of the Common Ground Alliance in Canada and their members to target public education and awareness programs to reduce damages and provide greater security and safety to Canadians.

National Report 2012-13-14 english Final.pdf

The CCGA Welcomes the Canadian Alliance of Energy Pipeline Landowner Associations to the CCGA Board of Directors

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 17:33:37 GMT

The CCGA proudly welcomes CAEPLA to the CCGA Board of Directors!

Representing the safety interests of transmission pipeline landowners across Canada, CAEPLA's involvement on the CCGA Board will help to ensure there is active landowner engagement on national damage prevention initiatives such as the ongoing development of the CCGA's Best Practices; and, the promotion, use and simplified access to the damage prevention process.

"Up until now", explains Dr. Dave Baspaly, Chair of the CCGA, "the landowner's damage prevention perspective has not been individually represented on the CCGA Board of Directors - and that was a problem. To respond, we specifically made room within our governance to accommodate the landowner demographic on our Board."

Mike Sullivan, CCGA Executive Director, continued, "The Common Ground Alliance is about inclusion. With every like-minded Association we engage, the closer we get to realizing our commonly shared objectives of public, worker and community safety; and, the prevention of damage to Canada's critical buried infrastructure."

The CCGA's next Board of Directors meeting is scheduled October 6th in Montreal and will coincide with the CCGA's 3rd Annual CCGA Damage Prevention Symposium.

The CCGA Welcomes The Railway Association of Canada to the CCGA Board of Directors!

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 16:53:16 GMT

As part of the CCGA's ongoing efforts to expand our damage prevention "reach", we are honoured to welcome The Railway Association of Canada to the CCGA Board of Directors!

Canada's railways employ more than 33,000 people and support an additional 60,000 direct and indirect jobs in the railway supply industry.

With the addition of the Railway Association of Canada to the Board, the CCGA's estimated reach is 1.5 million Canadians!

CSA Z247 - Damage Prevention for the Protection of Underground Infrastructure is now available

Wed, 27 May 2015 02:00:00 GMT

CSA Z247 was published today and is available for purchase HERE. French Translation will begin shortly with publication later this summer.

CSA Z247 is the first Damage Prevention Standard in Canada. It articulates the damage prevention process and elements that when consistently applied will reduce damages to Canada's underground infrastructure enhancing public, worker and community safety, preserving the environment and ultimately, saving lives.

The CCGA wishes to acknowledge CSA Z247's sponsors - the National Energy Board, Natural Resources Canada, the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and the Canadian Gas Association. Without their involvement from concept to completion, this Standard would not have been realized.

Mike Sullivan

Chair - CSA Z247

Executive Director - CCGA

Senator Grant Mitchell's Speech to the Senate Protecting Underground Infrastructure

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 23:29:53 GMT

On December 16, 2014, Senator Grant Mitchell delivered this speech in the Senate commending the report and recommendations to all Senators.

It was moved by the Honourable Senator Neufeld, seconded by the Honourable Senator Mitchell, that the ninth report of the standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources, entitled Digging Safely: One-Call Notification Systems and the Prevention of Damage to Canada's Buried Infrastructure, tabled in the Senate on December 3, 2014, be adopted by the Senate.

The motion was agreed and the report was adopted.

The CCGA Releases Update to 2013 Report on Damage to Underground Infrastructure

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 00:07:23 GMT

The CCGA released an update today to its 2013 Report on Damage to Underground Infrastructure. The updated information includes damages per 1,000 notifications as well as damages per 1,000 locates.

The CCGA released an update to its National Report on Damage to Underground Infrastructure today. The updated information includes damages per 1,000 notifications as well as damages per 1,000 locates.

Senate Energy Committee recommends owners of federally regulated buried infrastructure be required to join one-call services

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 20:31:37 GMT

The Standing Senate Committee on Energy the Environment and Natural Resources released its report today on One-Call Services and Damage Prevention Best Practices. The report, entitled Digging Safely: One Call Notification Systems and the Prevention of Damage to Canada's Critical Buried Infrastructure includes the following four recommendations:

LIST OF RECOMMENDATIONS

1. That the federal government reference the CSA Z247 standard for protection and prevention of damage to buried infrastructure in relevant federal legislation and encourage provinces and territories to reference the standard in legislation.

2. That buried facilities on federal land be registered with a provincial or territorial one-call service; and that the federal government require anyone undertaking construction or excavation on federal land to call a one-call service, where one exists.

3. That the federal government require all owners of federally regulated buried infrastructure to become members of a provincial or territorial one-call service, where one exists.

4. That the federal government introduce a conditional provincial/territorial grant dependent on the adoption of legislation requiring the mandatory participation of all owners and/or operators of underground facilities and excavators in a prescribed one-call service. The grant would be available to assist one-call centres with training, innovation, education and public awareness.

**************************************

Le Comité sénatorial permanent de l'énergie, de l'environnement et des ressources naturelles a rendu public son rapport sur les services de centre d'appels à numéro unique et les bonnes pratiques en matière de prévention de dommages. Le rapport intitulé, Creuser en toute sécurité, fait état des éléments suivants : ce rapport sur les centres d'appels à numéro unique et la prévention de dommages aux infrastructures souterraines au Canada comprend les quatre recommandations suivantes :

LISTE DE RECOMMANDATIONS

1. Que le gouvernement fédéral ajoute une référence à la norme CSA Z247 pour la protection des infrastructures souterraines et la prévention des dégâts à celles-ci dans les lois fédérales pertinentes et encourage les provinces et les territoires à ajouter une référence à la norme dans leurs lois.

2. Que les infrastructures souterraines se trouvant sur les terres fédérales soient enregistrées auprès d’un centre d’appels uniques provincial ou territorial; et que le gouvernement fédéral oblige toute personne entreprenant des travaux de construction ou d’excavation sur une terre fédérale à communiquer avec un centre d’appels uniques, sur les territoires où ce type de service existe.

3. Que le gouvernement fédéral oblige tous les propriétaires d’infrastructures souterraines visées par la réglementation fédérale à adhérer à un centre d’appels uniques provincial ou territorial, sur les territoires où ce type de service existe.

4. Que le gouvernement fédéral offre une subvention provinciale/territoriale conditionnelle à l’adoption d’une loi exigeant la participation de tous les propriétaires et/ou les exploitants d’infrastructures souterraines et des excavateurs à un centre d’appels uniques déterminé. La subvention appuierait les activités des centres d’appels uniques liées à la formation, à l’innovation et à la sensibilisation.

CCGA Releases 2013 National Report on Damage to Underground Infrastructure / Le CCGA rend public le Rapport national en matière de dommages aux infrastructures souterraines 2013

Fri, 07 Nov 2014 14:43:12 GMT

The CCGA released the 2013 National Report on Damage to Underground Infrastructure at the 2014 CCGA Damage Prevention Symposium. The analysis is a compendium and comparative analysis of 2013 DIRT data results from Québec, Ontario and British Columbia; representing roughly 75% of the Canadian population.

The report also includes limited data from Alberta. While it is unlikely that Alberta data reflects actual damages in the province, the CCGA chose to provide Alberta data for information purposes only.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Le CCGA a rendu public, lors du symposium 2014 du CCGA sur la prévention des dommages, le Rapport national en matière de dommages aux infrastructures souterraines pour l'année 2013. L'analyse est un recueil des résultats de données du DIRT de l'année 2013 et une analyse comparative de celles-ci pour les provinces du Québec, de l'Ontario et de la Colombie-Britannique. Ces provinces représentent 75 % de la population canadienne.

Des données restreintes provenant de la province de l'Alberta sont également incluses dans ce rapport. Bien qu'il soit peu probable que ces dernières reflètent les dommages réels survenus dans cette province, le CCGA a choisi de les inclure à titre d'information seulement.

The CCGA Releases Harmonized Best Practices - Volume 1.0

Mon, 03 Nov 2014 13:00:00 GMT

The CCGA is pleased to announce completion of the CCGA Best Practice Harmonization Project and release of The CCGA Best Practices - Volume 1.0! The CCGA unveiled Volume 1.0 at the 2014 Damage Prevention Symposium in Banff, Alberta October 29, 2014.

Best Practice Volume 1.0 (English) is available HERE for download (PDF). French translation is underway and will be posted to the CCGA News and social media feeds when completed. The CCGA will provide advance notice when new versions of the Best Practices are to be released.

To order printed copies of The CCGA Best Practices Volume 1.0, please email info@canadiancga.com. Cost per book is $10.00 CDN and includes shipping and handling.

Stay up-to-date - follow the CCGA on Twitter and Facebook!

CGA (U.S.) Releases 2013 DIRT Report

Fri, 03 Oct 2014 21:34:06 GMT

The Common Ground Alliance released the 2013 DIRT Report earlier this week. As reported by CGA President, Bob Kipp, "There is plenty of encouraging news in this report, starting with the finding that damages are down by approximately 5% compared to last year. With incoming tickets up 8% year over year and construction spending also up, this is a very encouraging statistic."

Although the 2013 DIRT Report offers data that is relevant to Canadian operations, governance and legislative differences between Canada and the United States present a challenge to fully integrate the report's findings into the complete spectrum of Canada's damage prevention initiatives. In that context, the CCGA is developing a comparison between the 2013 DIRT Report's findings relative to the CCGA's 2013 National Report on Damage to Buried Infrastructure and will post here at a later date.

CCGA Rolls-Out National Brand to Trigger the Damage Prevention Process

Thu, 01 May 2014 00:39:48 GMT

Call, Click or Tap the App

Buried Infrastructure is Everywhere - and So are We!

Traditionally, damage prevention has been all about "Call Before You Dig", but as the song goes, "the times they are a-changing". Today, there are options. The age of technology delivers rapid change and nothing stays the same for very long. In that light, more people are choosing to "Click" or even "Tap" before they dig than ever before.

It was with this in mind that the CCGA embarked on a project to develop a timeless damage prevention process trigger because no matter what technology brings, a responsible person will always have to do "something" before they dig.

Today, it's either "Call, Click or Tap the App".

The CCGA's "Before You Dig" brand takes into account the multiple, simplified access points to trigger that process, and it also takes into account the ease of rotating old for new access points. For example, had the CCGA created the Before You Dig brand in 2012, a Fax icon might have appeared in place of the App icon. Just a few short years later, however, two of Canada's major One-Call centres have eliminated fax locate requests; and, locate requests processed through the web continue to overtake phone-based locate requests by a wide and growing margin.

Please Download - it's Free!

The CCGA is making this brand available for you for free to unify promotion of the damage prevention process and promote simplified access. Please download the brand and use it in your awareness and education programs, your websites, pamphlets, email signatures and all damage prevention promotional materials. We also ask you to please respect the usage guide. Any unauthorized use of the CCGA's Before You Dig brand will be pursued.

Download english and french versions below. Included file formats are: JPEG, PDF (vector)

Multiple access points:

If you prefer to Click Before You Dig, please go to www.ClickBeforeYouDig.com. Click on the province you're working in to begin your locate request. When you Click Before You Dig, you can request your locate 24hrs/day, 7 days/wk (including holidays) and you will never be placed on-hold.

If you prefer to Call Before You Dig, consult your local One-Call Service, or go towww.ClickBeforeYouDig.com. There, you can click on your respective province to find information about your local One-Call service including their toll-free phone number.

If you'd like to Tap Before You Dig, please note that an App is only available in Quebec right now but more provincial Apps are coming! Alberta is next to roll-out an App this fall.

Remember, requesting a locate today doesn't mean you will be digging tomorrow. Please make note of provincial requirements for making your locate request.

The Damage Prevention Process, in its most simple form, is:

Request a locate (Call, Click or Tap the App)
Wait the required time
Dig with care
Live

Le CCGA procède au lancement de sa marque nationale afin de déclencher le processus de prévention des dommages

Appelez, cliquez ou lancez l'application

Les infrastructures souterraines sont partout - et nous aussi !

Historiquement, la prévention de dommages a été axée sur « Appelez avant de creuser », mais puisque les temps évoluent, nous avons décidé d'en faire autant. Aujourd'hui, nous disposons de plusieurs options. Grâce à l'évolution technologique, tout est en constante mutation. Dans ce contexte, plus que jamais, les gens choisissent de cliquer sur l'onglet demande de localisation de notre site Web ou même de lancer l'application avant de creuser.

C'est avec ceci en tête que le CCGA a lancé le projet visant à développer un déclenchement naturel du processus de prévention de dommages, car peu importe les nouvelles percées technologiques, une personne responsable fera toujours « quelque chose » avant de creuser.

Aujourd'hui, c'est : appelez, cliquez ou lancez l'application.

La marque « Avant de creuser » du CCGA prend en considération les points d'accès multiples et simplifiés afin de déclencher le processus de prévention. Il a aussi pris en considération la facilité de passer d'anciens points d'accès à de nouveaux. À titre d'exemple, si le CCGA avait créé la marque « Avant de creuser » en 2012, il y aurait eu l'icône d'un télécopieur au lieu de celui de l'application. Toutefois, à peine deux ans plus tard, deux des plus gros centres d'appel unique du Canada ont éliminé les demandes de localisation faites par télécopieur. Par ailleurs, les demandes de localisation faites sur le Web surpassent de plus en plus les demandes faites par téléphone.

Veuillez télécharger - c'est gratuit !

Le CCGA vous permet d'accéder gratuitement à sa marque afin de consolider le processus de prévention de dommages et de promouvoir l'accès simplifié. Veuillez télécharger l'application de la marque et utilisez-la lors de programmes de sensibilisation et de formation, sur votre site Web, dans vos dépliants, dans votre signature électronique et sur tout votre matériel promotionnel axé sur la prévention de dommages. Nous vous demandons également de respecter le guide d'utilisation. Toute utilisation non autorisée de la marque « Avant de creuser » du CCGA fera l'objet de poursuites.

Téléchargez la version anglaise et française ci-dessous. Les formats de fichiers sont les suivants : JPEG, PDF (vecteur)

Points d'accès multiples :

Si vous préférez utiliser le portail « Cliquez avant de creuser », allez sur notre site Web au : www.CliquezAvantdeCreuser.com. Cliquez sur la province où vous travaillez afin de commencer votre demande de localisation. L'utilisation du portail « Cliquez avant de creuser » vous permet de faire une demande de localisation 24 h par jour, 7 jours sur 7 (incluant les jours fériés) et vous ne serez jamais mis en attente.

Si vous préférez utiliser le service « Appelez avant de creuser », appelez l'un de nos centres d'appel unique ou allez sur notre site Web au www.CliquezAvantdCreuser.com. Une fois sur le site, vous pouvez cliquer sur votre province afin de trouver les informations concernant votre centre d'appel unique, incluant leur numéro sans frais.

Si vous préférez « Lancez l'application avant de creuser », il est important de noter que cette dernière n'est offerte qu'au Québec pour l'instant, mais d'autres applications provinciales devraient être disponibles sous peu ! L'Alberta offrira l'application dès cet automne.

Notez bien qu'une demande de localisation faite aujourd'hui ne veut pas dire que vous pourrez creuser dès demain. Veuillez tenir compte de la législation provinciale lorsque vous faites une demande de localisation.

Voici le processus de prévention de dommages dans sa forme la plus simple :

Faites une demande de localisation (appelez, cliquez ou lancez l'application)
Attendez le délai requis
Creusez intelligemment
Restez en vie

Standing Senate Committee to Examine "One Call'' Programs

Fri, 14 Feb 2014 21:41:00 GMT

A motion was adopted in the Senate yesterday authorizing the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources to examine and report on the current state of "One Call'' programs that identify critical underground infrastructure in Canada. In particular, the committee shall be authorized to:

Examine the ease of access to One Call programs and their damage prevention procedures, with a view to facilitating One Call services;

Examine best practice harmonization of underground protection practices and call-before-you-dig initiatives across federal, provincial, territorial and municipal government levels;

Recommend specific measures to enhance harmonization of best practices and the development of a national one call service.

The CCGA has been invited to appear, deliver commentary and respond to questions.

More to come.

http://www.parl.gc.ca/Content/Sen/Chamber/412/Journals/036jr_2014-02-13-e.htm

National Report on Damage to Buried Infrastructure / Rapport national en matière de dommages aux infrastructures souterraines

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 20:16:49 GMT

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance released its first national report today on damage to buried infrastructure. The report, drawing consistent data from Québec, Ontario and British Columbia, determined buried infrastructure in Canada is damaged an average of 31 times each day.

(Click HERE to view the report in English)

“These provinces represent roughly 80% of Canada’s population”, says Dr. Dave Baspaly, Chair of the CCGA and Executive Director of the British Columbia Common Ground Alliance, “in that context, the data and the results of this report are significant for all of Canada.”

Related to this report, Info-Excavation in Québec recently announced that damages to buried infrastructure in that province cost taxpayers over 75 million dollars in 2012 (click HERE for related story). A similar report, “Societal Costs of Damage to Buried Infrastructure due to Excavation in Ontario During 2000-03” was published by the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance in July 2005. That report determined damage to buried infrastructure cost Ontario taxpayers over 33 million dollars. The report also recommended that Ontario mandate registration of buried infrastructure with Ontario One Call. In 2012, Ontario became the first province to successfully pass legislation (Ontario Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012) requiring all buried utilities within a public right of way to register with Ontario One Call.

The CCGA’s report underlines the importance of its damage prevention goals of national interest and emphasizes the need for damage prevention legislation and meaningful enforcement of same. Moving forward, the CCGA National Report on Damage to Buried Infrastructure will include data from Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the Atlantic Region.

For more information, please contact:

Mike Sullivan – Executive Director

Canadian Common Ground Alliance

Msullivan@canadiancga.com

www.canadiancga.com

*******************************************************************

Le Canadian Comon Ground Alliance a rendu public aujourd'hui son premier rapport national concernant les dommages aux infrastructures souterraines. Ce rapport, dont les données constantes provenant du Québec, de l'Ontario et de la Colombie-Britannique, a fait ressortir que les infrastructures souterraines sont endommagées en moyenne 31 fois par jour.

(Cliquez ICI pour le rapport en français)

« Ces provinces représentent à peu près 80 % de la population canadienne » selon le Dr Dave Baspaly, président du conseil du CCGA et directeur général du Common Ground Alliance de la Colombie-Britannique. « Dans ce contexte, les données et les résultats obtenus sont significatifs pour tout le Canada ».

En lien direct avec ce rapport, l'organisme québécois Info-Excavation a récemment annoncé que la réparation des infrastructures endommagées a coûté 75 millions de dollars aux contribuables du Québec en 2012 (cliquez ICI afin de lire le reportage). Un rapport similaire « Societal Costs of Damage to Buried Infrastructure due to Excavation in Ontario During 2000-03 a été publié par le Regional Common Ground Alliance de l'Ontario en juillet 2005. Ce rapport indique que la réparation d'infrastructures endommagées coûtait plus de 33 millions de dollars aux contribuables ontariens. Une des recommandations du rapport est que le gouvernement provincial oblige les propriétaires d'infrastructures souterraines à enregistrer ces dernières auprès du centre d'appels de l'Ontario. En 2012, l'Ontario est devenu la première province à adopter une loi (Ontario Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012) afin que toutes les infrastructures souterraines situées sous un droit de passage public soient obligatoirement enregistrées auprès du centre d'appels de l'Ontario.

Le rapport du CCGA souligne l'importance des objectifs d'intérêt national en matière de prévention des dommages tout en soulignant la nécessité d'une loi et de procédures d'application de celles-ci. Dans le même ordre d'idée, le rapport national du CCGA en matière de dommages aux infrastructures souterraines inclura les données de l'Alberta, du Manitoba, de la Saskatchewan et de la région de l'Atlantique.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez communiquer avec :

Mike Sullivan – Directeur général

Canadian Common Ground Alliance

Msullivan@canadiancga.com

www.canadiancga.com

CCGA Damage Prevention Symposium a Success!!

Sun, 01 Dec 2013 02:42:09 GMT

The CCGA continues to receive positive feedback following its first damage prevention symposium held November 12 through 14 in Kananaskis, Alberta - and by all accounts, the symposium was a complete success! Just shy of 200 people attended the symposium and had their choice (sometimes a difficult one!) of three con-current sessions on a variety of subjects for a day and a half. Senator Grant Mitchell, Deputy Chair of the Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources, which had recently released its study, delivered a keynote address on day two of the symposium on the Senate's view of the importance of a safety culture. Following his speech, Senator Mitchell was presented with a commemorative "DigSafe" shovel from Mike Sullivan, Executive Director of the CCGA and President of Alberta One-Call Corporation.

The Symposium presented the CCGA with the opportunity to introduce its new Board of Directors, including a new Chair, Dr. Dave Baspaly, a new Vice Chair - Ms Nathalie Moreau; and, a new Secretary, Mr. Bryon Sackville. The CCGA's new Board Members are the Canadian One-Call Centre Committee, represented by Ms Sher Kirk of Alberta One-Call Corporation; and, the North American Damage Prevention Council, represented by Mr. Brent Fleury of Bell.

The CCGA also unveiled its plans for the near future - expanding the Board of Directors to include representation from additional damage prevention stakeholders. The CCGA will annouce those members in the near future as their membership is finalized.

As for the next Damage Prevention Symposium, the CCGA will be meeting soon to review feedback from our first and make a decision on when and where the next one will be. In that regard, the CCGA is mindful of its role to complement the foundational work of the Regional Partner CGAs across Canada. "Anything we do is planned so that it is in the Regional Partners' best interests", explains Mike Sullivan. "The goal is to create additional awareness at a high level yet draw attention to local issues at the same time. I think we were able to do that in Kananaskis."

In closing, the CCGA wishes to thank all of our presenters who donated their time and energy to make this first symposium such an enormous success. In their name, the CCGA is donating $2500.00 to the Canmore Rotary Club Charitable Foundation's Flood Relief Fund.

Senator Grant Mitchell

The North American Telecommunications Damage Prevention Council Joins the CCGA

Thu, 24 Oct 2013 14:44:18 GMT

Please note the following message appears in French below.

The CCGA proudly annouces the North American Telecommunications Damage Prevention Council (NTDPC) is now a member of the CCGA Board of Directors.

By joining the CCGA, this significant stakeholder group, consisting of telecomm, signals and communications providers across Canada and the United States, is now actively represented in all CCGA-related initiatives helping the CCGA and its Regional Partners achieve collective goals and objectives.

"This is a formidable addition to the CCGA Board", notes Dr. Dave Baspaly, Executive Director of the BCCGA and Vice-Chair of the CCGA. "The CCGA's goal is to be the collective damage prevention voice of all buried utilities and the damage prevention process at the national level. In joining the CCGA, the NTDPC formally brings an entire sector of stakeholders to the table bringing us closer to that primary goal."

Please join me in welcoming the NTDPC to the CCGA!

Le CCGA est fier d'annoncer la venue du North American Telecommunications Damage Prevention Council (NTDPC) au sein du conseil d'administration du CCGA.

En se joignant au CCGA, ce groupe d'acteurs important comprenant les fournisseurs de télécommunications, de signaux et de communications au Canada et aux États-Unis est désormais représenté dans toutes les initiatives du CCGA afin d'aider ce dernier et ses partenaires régionaux à atteindre leurs buts et leurs objectifs collectifs.

«Cela est un ajout formidable au conseil d'administration du CCGA», note Dr Dave Baspaly, directeur général du BCCGA et vice-président du CCGA. «Le but du CCGA est de s'exprimer collectivement en matière de prévention des dommages pour toutes les infrastructures souterraines au niveau national. En se joignant au CCGA, le NTDPC apporte de manière formelle un secteur entier d'acteurs au conseil, ce qui nous approche encore plus de notre but premier.»

Je vous prie de vous joindre à moi afin de souhaiter la bienvenue au NTDPC au sein du CCGA!

Mike Sullivan

Executive Director - CCGA

CCGA DAMAGE PREVENTION SYMPOSIUM - ONLY SIX SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES REMAIN

Thu, 26 Sep 2013 04:44:40 GMT

Please click the link for details: Sponsorship Opportunities - Sept 25 Update.pdf

The CCGA is accepting sponsors for various events at the 2013 Damage Prevention Symposium in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 21:46:46 GMT

See attached for details!

Sponsorship Opportunities.pdf

National Energy Board Administrative Monetary Penalties Regulations approved - will be in force July 3, 2013

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 22:09:46 GMT

The AMPs Regulations have been approved and will be in-force next week. Please click the link to view the Regulation.

http://www.neb-one.gc.ca/clf-nsi/rpblctn/ctsndrgltn/dmnstrtvmntrypnlts/dmnstrtvmntrypnltsrgltns-eng.pdf

Manitoba Click Before You Dig goes "live"!

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 20:58:52 GMT

After almost twenty years of valiant attempts to establish a One-Call service in Manitoba, the wait is over. Manitoba Click Before You Dig launches tomorrow - June 19, 2013.

Although the service has been designed to predominantly receive web-based locate requests, it can also receive phone-in requests. "From the Contact Centre's perspective, we are seeing a tremendous shift to online locate requests" provides Sher Kirk, the Chair of the Canadian One-Call Centres Committee and Assistant Operations Manager with Alberta One-Call.

"One of the CCGA's four damage prevention goals of national interest is to realize One-Call system access across Canada", explains Mike Sullivan, the Executive Director of the CCGA and President of Alberta One-Call Corporation. "We are honoured to offer Alberta's services to Manitoba. At the end of the day, it was simply the right thing to do".

The service goes live at midnight June 19, 2013 - www.ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com

Canadian One-Call Centre Committee launches "ClickBeforeYouDig.com"

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 20:46:31 GMT

In an effort to simplify access to the damage prevention process, the Canadian One-Call Centre Committee recently launched www.ClickBeforeYouDig.com in both official languages.

"The web portal offers a 'one-window' approach to web-based locate requests", explains Sher Kirk, the Chair of the One-Call Centre Committee. "Web-based locates are quickly overtaking the traditional phone-in requests. The person requesting the locate is never placed on hold, they can make their request 24hrs/day and include drawings, sketches, photos or any electronic attachment with their request".

85% of Québec's locate request volume is now received via the internet. Alberta One-Call, which launched a re-brand and "Click Before You Dig" campaign in March, has seen a significant up-tick in web-based locate requests moving from 37% in May 2012 to 65% in May 2013.

Safe-Digging Month kicks off across Canada!

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 19:31:55 GMT

Safe-Digging Month is rolling into high gear across Canada. This morning, the Alberta Common Ground Alliance held a media event to help promote public, worker and community safety.

Click HERE to read more about the event.

Alberta Common Ground Alliance Annual Safety Seminar

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 15:40:17 GMT

Start the 2013 Construction Season off on the right foot at the ABCGA's Annual Safety Conference March 5th in Lethbridge, Alberta.

The CCGA challenges our partners in safety to bring a friend, bring someone new and introduce them to the Alberta's damage prevention professionals who diligently work to protect the province's critical buried infrastructure, its integral and robust energy transportation system and our communities.

Manitoba to implement "CLICK" Before You Dig service spring 2013!

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 16:01:42 GMT

The Manitoba Common Ground Alliance will unveil Canada's first ever "Click" Before You Dig service next spring!

Please Click HERE for more information.

CCGA comments on the NEB Discussion Paper for Proposed Administrative Monetary Penalties

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 13:51:24 GMT

The CCGA responded to the National Energy Board's request for comments yesterday on the Board's proposed Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs).

Click HERE to read the CCGA's comments to the NEB and click HERE for further information on the National Energy Board's Proposed AMPs.

The CCGA sincerely appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with all buried utility stakeholders to further enhance the integrity of Canada's buried infrastructure.

Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance appoints new Executive Director

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 22:28:14 GMT

Mr. Daryl Posehn has been appointed to the role of Executive Director.

Please click HERE for more information.

CSA S250 - Mapping of Underground Utility Infrastructure

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 19:48:09 GMT

CSA Technical Committee Members, Bob Gaspirc & Laverne Hanley, are interviewed about CSA S250 - Mapping of Underground Utility Infrastructure.

THIS video explains what CSA S250 is, the factors that drove the need to create the standard, who will use it; and, the impact it will have.

CCGA Releases Damage Prevention White Paper / le CCGA produit un livre blanc pour la prévention des dommages

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 14:04:51 GMT

(français ci-dessous)

Uncontrolled excavation, or undertaking a digging project without knowing the location of underground infrastructure (such as natural gas service lines, oil pipelines, electricity wires, and telecommunications wires) is the most frequent cause of damage to buried infrastructure. To minimize damages and ensure the highest level of productivity and public, worker, and community safety, the Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) argues that damage prevention legislation must be nationally consistent.

The CCGA White Paper, Damage Prevention Legislation Elements Required for Canada, articulates a series of principles and specific elements for effective legislation that, along with other key elements like improved communication and the development of safe excavation best practices, would result in greater protection of underground infrastructure, and community safety.

Please click HERE for the News Release.

For more information, please contact Mike Sullivan

**************************

L’identification, la localisation et le marquage de l’emplacement des infrastructures souterraines sont indispensables avant de commencer l’excavation peu importe s’il s’agit de travaux routiers, de construction résidentielle ou commerciale ou encore d'un projet résidentiel tel que la construction d'une clôture ou d’une terrasse. Le Canadian Common Ground Alliance soutient que l’adoption d’une législation et d'une réglementation efficaces et cohérentes au Canada améliorerait grandement les pratiques en matière d’excavation ainsi que la protection des grands réseaux canadiens d'infrastructures.

Des exigences et une législation claires et cohérentes, telles que décrites dans le livre blanc du CCGA, réduiraient les dommages et augmenteraient la productivité des chantiers de construction, mais amélioreraient surtout la sécurité des travailleurs, du public et de la communauté.

S'il vous plaît cliquer ICI pour le communiqué.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez contacter Mike Sullivan

Monetary Penalties Proposed by National Energy Board

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 04:40:53 GMT

The NEB begins consultations on a proposed approach to the development of an Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs). Please click HERE for the NEB's web posting. Click HERE for a link to the NEB's discussion paper.

The Calgary Herald posted THIS STORY about the NEB's proposal to introduce AMPs July 16, 2012.

The CCGA will be striking a task force to review the NEB's discussion paper and provide comment.

Mike Sullivan - CCGA Chair

ONTARIO ONE CALL SYSTEM BILL RECEIVES ROYAL ASSENT AND OFFICIALLY BECOMES LAW

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 14:50:42 GMT

MPP for Sarnia-Lambton, Bob Bailey, issued this Press Release yesterday.

The CCGA wishes to recognize MPP Bailey for his leadership and collaborative work with the ORCGA and its safety partners in helping achieve this necessary goal!

"This is a giant leap forward for damage prevention in Canada", says CCGA Chair and President of Alberta One-Call, Mike Sullivan. "It sets the bar for the rest of the country and provides us with a virtual roadmap to reach the same destination."

Mandatory One-Call Law Passes in Ontario

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 16:15:03 GMT

The CCGA applauds the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance on its efforts to pass Bill 8 - Mandatory One-Call for Ontario. As reported by Enbridge Gas Distribution, all three political parties in Ontario worked together to achieve this important goal.

One Call systems exist in the provinces of Québec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia and in the City of Saint John, New Brunswick. Ontario's new legislation will lead to the implementation of a single 'One Call' system in the province making it easier for Ontarians to find out the location of underground infrastructure before they dig. Membership in the existing system is voluntary, and at times, Ontarians were required to make up to 13 separate calls to obtain this important information. All too often, this confusing process led to people digging without contacting local utilities for the location of underground wires, cables and pipes, a scenario that could be extremely dangerous or even deadly.

Although some regulators of buried utilities require their regulated companies to belong to a provincial One-Call system, membership in One-Call systems across Canada is largely voluntary. Realizing a One Call System serving every province in Canada and Mandatory One-Call legislation are two of the CCGA's goals and it is hoped that Ontario's success will lead other provinces to follow the same path.

Please click HERE for more details.

Harper Plan for Responsible Resource Development Includes Provisions for Monetary Penalties

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:09:00 GMT

The Harper Government announced its Plan for Responsible Resource Development today. For the transmission pipeline industry, the Plan includes provisions of monetary penalties for violations of the National Energy Board Act.

Below are two bullet points addressing the new provisions:

For the first time, authorizing the use of administrative monetary penalties for violations of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, the Nuclear Safety and Control Act and the National Energy Board Act. These penalties will be designed to address small contraventions quickly so that larger issues do not arise in the future. Further details on the penalties will be available once legislation is introduced;
The proposed penalties could range from $25,000 to a maximum of $100,000 for violations of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act, and the National Energy Board Act, while the range of penalties under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act will be established through regulations;

To see the full announcement, click HERE.

The BCCGA wants to feed you breakfast April 18th in Surrey!

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 19:44:10 GMT

The BCCGA is hosting a FREE Contractor Breakfast at the Sheraton Guilford Hotel in Surrey on April 18th between 7:00AM and 8:00AM.

You don't have to be a BCCGA Member to attend! Register for the breakfast at www.commongroundbc.ca

Alberta Common Ground Alliance prepares to host two Safety Seminars

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:22:17 GMT

The ABCGA will be hosting two safety seminars on April 10th in Red Deer and April 12th in Bonnyville. Eric Giguere will be delivering the keynote address - a life-altering experience you won't want to miss!

Click HERE for the invitation!

Manitoba Common Ground Alliance website is now live!

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 13:51:50 GMT

The Manitoba Common Ground Alliance, a regional partner of the CGA, is a member driven organization dedicated to ensuring worker and public safety, environmental protection and the integrity of services by promoting effective damage prevention practices in connection with underground infrastructure activities.

The MCGA officially became a Regional Partner of the Common Ground Alliance in March 2011.

CRTC Denies CCGA Application for Shared Use of 811

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 22:50:47 GMT

It is with disappointment that the CCGA, its Regional Partners across Canada and its National Stakeholders The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and the Canadian Gas Association, announce the CRTC decision to deny our application for shared use of the 811 dialling code. For a Telecom proceeding, our application generated an unprecedented level of positive response from coast to coast. With that in mind, we remain confident there is a strong public desire to simplify access to One Call systems in Canada enhancing the integrity of our buried critical infrastructure and above all, better protecting public, worker and Community Safety. To that end, the CCGA and its partners are reviewing the CRTC's decision and considering next steps.

Click the link below to see the CRTC's decision:

English

http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2012/2012-167.htm

Francais:

http://www.crtc.gc.ca/fra/archive/2012/2012-167.htm

The National Energy Board’s Damage Prevention Framework - A plan for improving regulatory clarity

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 20:41:09 GMT

The National Energy Board released its Damage Prevention Framework (click HERE for French) earlier today outlining the go-forward steps it will take to effectively promote public and community safety and the integrity of federally-regulated pipelines in Canada.

The CCGA acknowledges the positive direction of the NEB's Damage Prevention Framework and is looking forward to collaborating with the Board to meet our common damage prevention goals.

- Mike Sullivan - Chair, CCGA

Watch tonight's episode of American Chopper to see the new 811 Bike revealed!

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:11:21 GMT

Damages to buried utilities dropped by roughly 70% in the United States following the introduction of 811 (3 digit "Call Before You Dig") in 2007 enhancing public safety and the security of buried infrastructure. In Canada, 811 was assigned to non-emergency medical services in 2005 yet only a handful of provinces use the number for this purpose. In July 2011, the Canadian Common Ground Alliance applied to the CRTC requesting shared use of 811 (press "1" for non-emergeny medical services and press "2" to request a locate of buried utilities before you dig). Response from the CRTC is pending.

The 811 Bike is a symbol of the ongoing public awareness ingenuity buried utility owners, operators and stakeholders share in the U.S. and the desire to do the same in Canada is enormous. Be a partner in safety, share this link!

CRTC Appoints New Acting Chair

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:51:52 GMT

LEONARD (LEN) KATZ appointed Acting Chairman of the CRTC on January 25, 2012.

Click HERE for more information.

Kinder Morgan Promotes Shared Use of 811 in "Energy Pathways"

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:32:30 GMT

In the December 2011 edition of their newsletter, Energy Pathways, Kinder Morgan - a CCGA Gold Sponsor - promotes the benefit of shared use of 811.

Click HERE to see the newsletter.

Another Member of Parliament Expresses Support for the CCGA's Application for Shared Use of 811

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 23:44:04 GMT

Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and the Canadian Wheat Board, submitted a letter to the CRTC on September 13, 2011 supporting the CCGA's application for shared use of the 811 dialling code. The letter, posted to the CRTC's Intervener Webpage for our application December 14, 2011, states in part:

“The reasons listed in the CCGA’s submission for shared use of 811 for access to both non-emergency medical services and the Call Before You Dig initiative are self-explanatory, and would clearly benefit all Canadians.”

and,

“…the Government of Canada is making significant efforts to safeguard its critical infrastructure in order to face emergency situations and maintain its capacity to respond to the needs of Canadians. Moving forward with this initiative would certainly be a step in the right direction.”

The CCGA greatly appreciates Minister Ritz's support.

CCGA Summary of Response to Comments re: Application for Joint Use of 811

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:41:02 GMT

On September 26, 2011, the CCGA filed its response with the CRTC relative to the comments it received for its application for joint use of 811. At this time, the CCGA posts this summary of the response for interested parties.

"Shining" Example of the Broad-Based 811 Public Awareness Campaign in the U.S.

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:43:51 GMT

The 811 Chopper, commissioned by One Call Concepts, was unveiled in the U.S. today.

Click HERE to see the photo!

Common Ground Alliance Recognized for North American Damage Prevention Efforts

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 18:39:49 GMT

Senator Rod Zimmer presented the Common Ground Alliance with "811" Winnipeg Jets jerseys in recognition of the contribution to public, worker and community safety across North America. Senator Zimmer, who is from Winnipeg, made the presentation at his Ottawa office on Parliament Hill on Thursday, October 27, 2011 with Mr. Steven Loney, a representative of the Manitoba Common Ground Alliance.

Click HERE for the full story.

CSA Standards publishes CSA S250 - Mapping of Underground Utility Infrastructure

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 20:29:37 GMT

CSA Standards has just published CSA S250 Mapping of Underground Utility Infrastructure. This new standard has its origins from long established mapping best practices and internal utility company mapping standards. It has been developed by a committee of nationwide industry subject matter experts, regulators, general interest and user groups, all with a vested interest in improving the overall quality and consistency of mapping and records information.

Until recently, accurately identifying and recording the positional location of utility infrastructure was not formally required nor was it carried out in a consistent manner. Today, there are thousands of kilometres of underground pipes and cables whose locations have never been accurately mapped or recorded.

One of the key benefits of CSA S250 will be improved accuracy and reliability and more confidence in the location and properties of underground infrastructure. This Standard also promotes better record keeping that will improve the safety of company and contractor employees, the environment, as well as the public by reducing the utility hits or strikes. The Standard establishes accuracy levels that set tolerances for the spatial accuracy of as-builts. It also specifies the utility attributes (e.g. colours, naming conventions, symbology) to be used for describing and depicting underground utility infrastructure. The goal is to encourage consistency when data is shared and reviewed. The standard also requires a more structured approach and governance to mapping utility records by establishing procedures for improved mapping accuracy and a uniform format for utility feature descriptions, as well as processes for notification of mapping errors and practices when sharing data.

CSA S250 can be purchased at www.shopCSA.ca.

Fall Edition of the Damage Prevention Professional e-magazine now available online

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 22:10:17 GMT

Click HERE to see the fall edition of the Damage Prevention Professional e-magazine. The CCGA's application for joint use of 811 is mentioned in an article on page 14.

Telecom Trend Blog Post: CCGA CRTC Application for 811

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 18:06:58 GMT

Mark Goldberg, one of Canada's leading technology and telecommunications bloggers, published a blog post today, October 12, 2011 about the CCGA's application to the CRTC to broaden the assignment of 811.

Please see Mark's blog post, Finding Common Ground.

CCGA List of Supporters to Broaden the Assignment of 811

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:38:32 GMT

List of 200 stakeholders who provided letters of support for the CCGA's application to broaden the assignment of 811.

The Honourable Joe Oliver, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, proclaims support for 811

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 19:48:30 GMT

Minister of Natural Resources Canada, Joe Oliver, proclaimed support to broaden the assignment of the 811 dialing code in a speech delivered to the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association's annual dinner on September 29, 2011 in Calgary, Alberta.

"I know that you are doing your part in maintaining your safety record. I know you fully understand that a good track record in safety and environmental performance helps to create a distinct competitive advantage. This is why we support your campaign to create an “811” number for Canada’s “Call Before You Dig” program. Protecting Canada’s underground utility network is of paramount importance and making that phone call could save lives and avoid accidents."

The application filed by the CCGA in July requests the CRTC to broaden the assignment of the 811 dialing code to include "Call Before You Dig" services.

The CCGA's application attracted 200 letters of support from a wide spectrum of buried utility, damage prevention and safety stakeholders from across Canada.

The CCGA files its response to comments with the CRTC

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 22:37:19 GMT

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) filed its response to comments on its application to broaden the assignment of the 811 dialing code with the CRTC earlier today.

To view the CCGA's response to the CRTC, please click the link below.

CCGA Response to Comments (filed September 26, 2011).

Damage Prevention is a Shared Responsibility

Comment Period for the CCGA's Application to the CRTC Closes

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 15:23:57 GMT

The comment period for the CCGA's application to the CRTC to broaden the assignment of the 811 dialing code closed on September 16, 2011 at 8pm Eastern. The CCGA is reviewing comments and preparing responses in accordance with the CRTC application process.

On behalf of the CCGA and the 3 Digit Dialing Task Force, I wish to thank all partners in safety across Canada for their ongoing assistance and support. The level of interest has been, and continues to be, unprecedented.

Mike Sullivan
Chair, Canadian Common Ground Alliance

Support for joint use of 811 approaching 200!

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 03:41:19 GMT

With one week remaining before the comment period expires on September 16, 2011, the list of supporters for the CCGA's application to the CRTC (to broaden the assignment of the 811 dialing code to include Call Before You Dig services) is approaching 200. Support for joint use of the 811 dialing code is from a wide spectrum of stakeholders - from major pipeline companies transporting hydrocarbons across Canada, to excavators and contractors, to various levels of government - municipal, provincial and federal.

Joint use of the 811 dialing code would significantly simplify access to One Call Services to protect buried utilities prior to ground disturbance, is consistent with the North American Numbering Plan, and will ultimately enhance public, worker and community safety and the integrity of our critical buried infrastructure,

View List of Supporters (current to September 2, 2011)

CRTC Public Comment Period Extended to September 16, 2011

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:02:00 GMT

The CRTC has extended the comment period relative to the CCGA's application to September 16, 2011. Please reivew this important notice from the CCGA for details.

Letter of Support Template for CCGA Application to the CRTC Available for Downloading / Modèle de lettre d’appui à télécharger relativement à la demande qu’a déposée la CCGA auprès du CRTC

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:41:39 GMT

English (Français si-dessous):

If you wish to provide a letter of support for the CCGA's application to the CRTC to broaden the assignment of the 811 dialling code, please download this letter of support template which includes the CRTC file number at the top of the page.

Directions for submitting letter of support:

1. Download the letter of support template highlighted above

2. Date your letter

3. Insert the name of your organization, company or association in the first paragraph and in the last paragraph.

4. We encourage you to tailor the letter to reflect your own message and insert your Organization's standard "about us" paragraph in paragraph # 5 of the letter

5. Submit your letter of support directly to the CRTC (address provided on the letter of support template) and please send a copy to the Canadian Common Ground Alliance via email to: ccga811@canadiancga.com

Thank you!

Français:

Si vous souhaitez soumettre une lettre d’appui relativement à la demande que la CCGA a déposée auprès du CRTC afin d’élargir l’utilisation du 811, veuillez télécharger ce modèle de lettre d'appui qui comporte le numéro de dossier du CRTC en haut de la page.

Voici les directives pour soumettre cette lettre d’appui :

1. Téléchargez le modèle de lettre d’appui mise en évidence ci-dessus.

2. Datez votre lettre.

3. Insérez le nom de votre organisation, entreprise ou association dans le premier et le dernier paragraphe.

4. Nous vous invitons à adapter le texte de la lettre de manière à transmettre votre propre message, puis insérez le paragraphe standard À propos de nous de votre organisation dans le cinquième paragraphe de la lettre.

5. Soumettez votre lettre d’appui directement au CRTC (l'adresse est indiquée dans le modèle de lettre d'appui) en prenant soin d'envoyer une copie par courriel à la Canadian Common Ground Alliance à l'adresse suivante : ccga811@canadiancga.com.

Merci pour votre précieuse collaboration!

Québec CGA / APISQ interview on CBC Radio - Québec City

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 14:40:51 GMT

Nathalie Moreau, Director of l'Alliance pour les infrastructures souterreaines du Québec (Québec CGA), was interviewed this morning on CBC radio 104.7 in Québec City addressing the CCGA's request for joint use of 811.

Click here to listen to the interview.

News Release / Communiqué: The CCGA Applies to the CRTC for Joint Use of 811 / La CCGA fait demand au CRTC pour partager le 811

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 04:14:03 GMT

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) submitted an application to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) requesting the 3 digit "811" number also be used for the Canadian "Call Before You Dig" program.

La Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) a soumis une demande au Conseil de la radiodiffusion et des télécommunications canadiennes (CRTC). Dans sa requête, la CCGA demande à ce que le numéro à trois chiffres « 811 » puisse également être utilisé dans le cadre du programme canadien Appeler avant de creuser.

Click here for the English News Release / Communiqué francaise.

The CCGA applies to the CRTC for joint use of 811

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 19:38:03 GMT

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) submitted an application to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today requesting the 3 digit “811” number also be used for the Canadian “Call Before You Dig” program.

In 2007, the 811 number was assigned by the CRTC to tele-health services in Canada to provide non-emergency health expertise over the phone. The CCGA proposes that the 811 number be also used for “Call Before You Dig” to serve public health in the widest sense.

The application is a joint effort among all Common Ground Alliance Regional Partners in Canada and was crafted with the support of the Canadian Gas Association and the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association.

To view the CCGA's application, please click here.

For more information about the CCGA and its application, please contact:

Mike Sullivan

Chair – Canadian Common Ground Alliance

President – Alberta One-Call

Tel: 403.531.3700

Email: msullivan@canadiancga.com

www.canadiancga.com

Calgary Herald - June 22: Pipeline Safety Threatened by Growing Urban Centres

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:17:00 GMT

A recent article in the Calgary Herald focuses on mandatory damage prevention legislation in Canada.

L'Alliance pour la protection des infrastructures sousterraines du Québec in the news

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:09:19 GMT

L'APISQ was in the news earlier this week in Montreal with a story about the cost of damages to buried utilities and the damage prevention efforts of the Alliance pour la protection des infrastructures souterraines du Québec / Québec CGA and Info-Excavation.

ONTARIO ONE CALL ACT PASSES SECOND READING WITH ALL-PARTY SUPPORT

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 20:20:35 GMT

On April 21st, 2011, Sarnia-Lambton MPP Bob Bailey presented his private member's bill, dubbed the “Call Before You Dig” Act, to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario for Second Reading Debate. It received all-party support and passed unanimously. Click here to see the news release.

Originally presented to the Assembly on April 13, 2011 the next step will be an in-depth review in one of the Assembly’s standing committees before receiving a final third vote. If passed, the legislation will establish Ontario One Call Ltd. as a not-for-profit call centre, a single point-of-contact for all underground utility location services in Ontario.

Bill 180 - An Act Respecting Ontario One Call

MPP Bailey with Jim Douglas of the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance and Paul Rietdyk of Union Gas support Bill 180 - Ontario One Call Act, 2011.

Safe Digging Month spreads across Canada!

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 15:15:15 GMT

Québec: In collaboration with the Québec CGA (l'Alliance pour la protection des infrastructures souterraines du Québec), Transports Québec recognizes "Safe Digging Month" and the awareness of damage prevention best practices / La Canadian Common Ground Alliance a désigné le mois d’avril comme le Mois de l’excavation sécuritaire. Le Ministère, en collaboration avec l’Alliance pour la protection des infrastructures souterraines du Québec (APISQ), se joint à cet évènement de sensibilisation à de meilleures pratiques pour prévenir les dommages aux infrastructures souterraines.

The Suppliers' Area of the Québec Ministry of Transport website further promotes "Safe Digging Month" / La Zone des fournisseurs sensibilise le mois de l'excavation sécuritaire.

The Municipal page of the Québec Ministry of Transport website recognizes "Safe Digging Month" / Le Ministère de Transports Québec reconnaît mois de l'excavation securitaire.

Ontario: On April 13th, this Private Member's Bill was introduced as Bill 180.Press Release - MPP Bob Bailey - 11-04-13 - Ontario One Call.pdf

Also, please note the reference page on the Ontario Legislature website where information about Bill 180 will be posted, including copies of the legislation, links to debates and an update on its current status.

Video of Bob Bailey introducing Bill 180 in Legislature.

“Bob Bailey wants you to call before you dig” April 1st on City TV with ORCGA members.

Manitoba: The Manitoba Common Ground Alliance (MCGA) proclaims April as "Safe Digging Month".

Saskatchewan: The Government of Saskatchewan declares April as Safe Digging Month across the province, in a co-ordinated effort with Sask 1st Call and the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance (SCGA) to increase public awareness on the importance of working safely around underground infrastructure.

Alberta: Alberta Proclamation for Safe Digging Month.

British Columbia: The BCCGA's "Safe Digging Month" banner can be seen on many British Columbia websites promoting safe digging month!

Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) recognizes Safe Digging Month.

CCGA Call Before You Dig Public Service Announcement

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 17:55:39 GMT

With the generosity of Jeremy Bieber, the Canadian Common Ground Alliance offers this public service announcement to enhance public safety and the integrity of all buried utilities.

One Call costs you nothing. Not calling could cost you everything.

CCGA Regional Partners, members, sponsors, Canadian One Call Systems, Federal Champions and damage prevention colleagues:

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 03:25:54 GMT

Canadian Senator Rod Zimmer recognized April as Safe Digging Month last week in the Canadian Senate. Attached, you will find the official transcript (English and French) of his speech and a photo of Senator Rod Zimmer and me marking the event.

Photo - Senator Rod Zimmer and Mike Sullivan.jpg (4MB) Senate Proclamation.pdf Proclamation du Sénat.pdf

Please fan this information to your respective members, departmental contacts and damage prevention working groups / associations inviting them to circulate further and use the information to help promote Safe Digging Month! Mike Sullivan

Addressing Canada’s Damage Prevention Issues of National Interest

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 18:27:19 GMT

I’m Mike Sullivan and I am the current Chair of the Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA).

Since 2003, Regional CGA Partners have emerged and gathered momentum and strength across Canada. And since that time, each of those Regional Partnerships has experienced challenge and tremendous success. In many respects, the cross-Canada growth of the CGA was largely due to the support extended by one Regional Partner to another. As the Regional Partnerships evolved, however, it became clear that a unified voice was necessary to address Canadian damage prevention issues of national interest. With necessity being the ‘mother of invention’, the Canadian Common Ground Alliance was created.

In the early years, the CCGA began as an ad-hoc committee comprised of leaders from each Regional Partnership and key stakeholders representing national damage prevention interests – namely, the National Energy Board and the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and several industry leaders. Regional Partner leaders from British Columbia, Ontario and Québec played dual roles leading their own Regional Partnerships while also leading the efforts of the CCGA. Under their leadership, the CCGA made steady progress and continued to grow. We identified common strategic goals, engaged more members and additional federal alliances, developed and passed a governance model; and in late 2009, the CCGA successfully held its first election for a Chair, Vice-Chair and Secretary. I was honoured to be nominated and elected Chair.

The CCGA Executive are volunteer positions elected to a two-year term. Given that we wear these roles as a badge of honour, the desire to make a difference during the short duration of our term is very strong; and personally, I am very excited to have such an opportunity. The way I see it, together with our Regional Partner colleagues, we have an opportunity to influence some of the most important Damage Prevention initiatives experienced in Canada since our first One-call System opened.

Our priority - to realize 3 digit / national One-call dialing in Canada. We believe the goal is within reach and achieving it will be an enabler to One-call Legislation. Over the past year, we have been working closely with our partners the Canadian Gas Association, the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and One-Call Systems International as we prepare a submission to the CRTC. Reaching our goal will significantly enhance the integrity of buried utilities and above all, it will save lives.

We are also working towards a Regional CGA Partnership in every Province and Territory, and closer to home, we are eagerly anticipating the launch of our website which we hope will become a strong foundation for Canadian damage prevention information and initiatives and a portal to CGA Regional Partners. Thanks to the dedication of our committee, federal champions and growing membership across the country, we are making progress!

The CCGA is closely linked with the CGA in the U.S. In fact, Bob Kipp, President of the CGA, has attended every CCGA meeting and has offered us unending support.

If your business has an interest in public safety and preventing damage to buried facilities, join your Regional Common Ground Alliance Partnership and become part of the solution.

The Canadian Common Ground Alliance Executive is:

Mike Sullivan – Chair CCGA (Vice-President, Operational Services, HMA Land Services Ltd.)
Dave Baspaly – Vice-Chair CCGA (Executive Director, British Columbia CGA)
Derrick Saedal – Secretary CCGA (Executive Director, Manitoba CGA)
Jim Douglas – Treasurer CCGA (Executive Director, Ontario Regional CGA)

Article Source: Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance’s magazine