OUDPC Builds on HB 227 Success to Advance Ohio’s Damage Prevention Efforts

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The successful passage of House Bill 227 stands as a powerful testament to the collaborative strength of the Ohio Underground Damage Prevention Coalition (OUDPC). Through the dedicated efforts of its members and stakeholders, the Coalition played a key role in modernizing Ohio’s excavation laws, strengthening training and compliance standards while reducing process inefficiencies that impact contractors, utility locators, utility operators, and excavators alike. Building on this significant milestone, the OUDPC remains committed to advance Ohio’s safe excavation laws to keep Ohio the safest place to live and work.

Structured to reflect the partnership-driven nature of the OUDPC, each subcommittee is co-chaired by both a utility representative and an excavator representative, ensuring balanced participation and consideration of stakeholder perspectives. Membership within each subcommittee includes representatives from utilities, contract locators, excavators, engineers, designers, governmental entities, and other industry professionals. This broad cross-section of expertise fosters productive dialogue and provides a comprehensive, industry-wide perspective when evaluating potential legislative and procedural improvements.

Current subcommittee discussions focus on a variety of important topics, including Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) responsibilities, abandoned facilities, large and complex excavation projects, misuse of the 811 notification system, and other emerging industry concerns. Requests for review of specific ORC provisions are submitted through the OUDPC and, upon receiving majority support from coalition members, a dedicated subcommittee is established to evaluate the issue and develop recommendations.

Active OUDPC Subcommittees

Utility Coordination Subcommittee

This subcommittee is reviewing revisions to ORC 3781.28 related to notification size (ticket size) for excavation projects within public utility rights-of-way, with a focus on aligning notification requirements with project scope and linear footage.

Abandoned Lines Subcommittee

Members continue to evaluate potential legislative solutions to address abandoned underground facilities. The objective is to improve worker safety and reduce uncertainty encountered during excavation activities.

Misuse of the 811 System Subcommittee

This group is examining the most common and impactful instances of misuse of the 811 notification process. Improper use of the system contributes significantly to locate delays experienced throughout Ohio. The subcommittee is exploring enforcement mechanisms, process improvements, and educational initiatives aimed at reducing misuse to improve overall system efficiency.

Underground Technical Committee (UTC) Review Subcommittee

Focused primarily on provisions contained within ORC Chapter 4913, this subcommittee is reviewing the structure, responsibilities, and effectiveness of the Underground Technical Committee. The review is intended to evaluate the impact of legislation enacted through SB 378 and determine whether updates are warranted after a decade of implementation.

Updating Mapping/Records in Timely Manner

This subcommittee is addressing concerns regarding the timeliness of utility record updates and map distribution to contract locating providers. Delays in updating and sharing facility information can result in unmarked or mismarked infrastructure, increasing excavation risk and creating potential safety hazards in the field.

Horizontal Directional Drill Requirements

Members are actively reviewing ORC 3781.30 as it pertains to potholing requirements during HDD operations. The subcommittee is also evaluating the statutory definition and application of the term “non-destructive manner” to ensure clarity and consistency within the law.

Large and Complex Project Subcommittee

This group is reviewing ORC 3781.28(E) and examining opportunities to strengthen the Complex/Large Project process. Discussions include establishing a clearer definition of complex and/or large projects, improving communication among stakeholders, creating mutually agreed-upon locate schedules, and reducing operational challenges that can contribute to misuse of the 811 system and project delays.

Industry Participation Encouraged

The OUDPC operates through an open-meeting format and welcomes participation from any individual or organization with an interest in excavation safety and underground damage prevention. Through collaboration among stakeholders, the coalition continues to identify opportunities to improve Ohio’s underground damage prevention framework, enhance public safety, and protect the state’s critical underground infrastructure.

For more information about the OUDPC or to learn how to become involved, visit www.OHIO811.org/oudpc.

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This article was written by:
Jason Broyles, OHIO811 Public Awareness/Services Supervisor