Call 811 Before Clearing a Blocked Sewer line

One call can help identify cross bores and prevent dangerous gas line punctures

A plunger was insufficient to clear a clog in a homeowner’s toilet. When she noticed sewage had backed up into a rarely used shower, she decided it was time to call a professional plumber.

The plumber suggested that a tree root or broken pipe had likely caused the problem. He removed the toilet and use a motorized auger to clear the line. After snaking an inspection camera through about 40 feet of pipeline, the plumber discovered that a natural gas pipe had penetrated the sewer line. Had he continued with the auger, the plumber would have likely punctured the gas line, causing a gas leak and potential explosion.

After further investigation, the plumber determined that the blockage was caused by a cross bore — a gas pipe that had been bored through the sewer line.

The possibility of a cross bore should be considered

Over the years, increased usage of trenchless technology to install underground utilities has helped reduce unsightly construction, causing the least amount of disturbance to lawns, sidewalks and streets. The process, however, increases the likelihood of a cross bore, which results when one utility line crosses through another.

Sewer lines are often non-metallic and privately owned, making them difficult to locate using traditional methods. Because they are harder to identify, they are more susceptible to cross bores. Cross bores on their own do not create safety risks. Over time, however, the sewer line can become blocked with sediment and waste, causing sewer backup that usually results with a call to a plumber.

A cross bore can create a dangerous situation if the plumber uses an auger or other devise to clear the sewer and accidentally damages the utility line, allowing natural gas to migrate into the house. Damage to the utility line can occur whether the job is large or small or involves a private home or commercial facility. That’s why it is important to understand how to prevent utility line damage in any situation.

Taking the right steps to locate cross bores

Once you establish that a clog is beyond the scope of the structure’s foundation, notify OHIO811 that your situation is an emergency and requires immediate repair. OHIO811 is a not-for-profit public safety organization that serves as a communication link between utility companies and individuals planning any type of digging project.

Although OHIO811 cannot guarantee a line is free of cross bores, locators can determine if utilities exist around the blocked sewer lateral, which indicates the possibility of a cross bore.

Once you have this information, you can make an informed decision as to whether any additional services are needed or if you need to contact that facility owner. *If a gas line is in the affected area, please contact Columbia Gas of Ohio at 800-344-4077 and we will dispatch someone immediately.

An inspection camera is the best tool to determine whether another utility – including a natural gas line – has penetrated the sewer line. These types of cameras are expensive, so if you don’t own one, you may want to hire a professional to inspect the line for you. Please keep in mind that you cannot see everything, even if you use a camera. That’s why making the call to 811 is vital.

What to do in case of an emergency

Always be alert to any unusual conditions that may indicate a natural gas line has ruptured while sewer lines are being cleared. These indicators include hissing sounds, a rotten egg odor (mercaptan), blowing dirt and standing water that is bubbling, such as a puddle or toilet.

If you suspect a gas leak or that you or someone else has ruptured a natural gas line, take these steps:

  • Leave the area immediately and instruct others to do the same.

  • Once you reach a safe location, call 911 and then Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077.

  • Keep others at a safe distance from the site and wait for emergency response crews to arrive.

  • Do not operate any electrical devices that may cause a spark, including a cell phone.

  • Do not operate below ground valves or turn equipment on or off.

Columbia Gas has implemented a sewer line safety program to identify and remediate cross bore situations. In addition to partnering with our contractors, we also work with local municipalities to inspect sewer lines (sanitary and storm) and isolate and correct cross bore situations.

Call before you clear

Cross bores may exist for months or even years without creating a problem. Always use caution any time you work with blocked sewer lines as the blockage may be caused by a cross bore. Always call 811 before you begin to clear any sewer line to help mitigate safety risks — for you, the homeowner and neighbors — and to reduce your liability.

Columbia Gas remains focused on safety every day. We invite you to help us spread the message about cross bores and the importance of calling 811 before you use any mechanical device to clear outside sewer lines. It is a simple step that can help ensure all parties stay safe.

Identify a Cross Bore, Earn $300!

As part of our commitment to safety, Columbia Gas1 is offering a reward to licensed plumbers who accurately discover and report a natural gas cross bore to Columbia Gas.

Licensed plumbers must do the following to be eligible:

  • Call 811 to have utility lines located.

  • Identify the approximate location of the blockage using a camera or other means.

  • Call Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077 if you suspect a natural gas cross bore. If it’s in an area we serve, we’ll send someone immediately2.

  • If we verify it is a natural gas cross bore compromising the sewer facility, the individual licensed plumber will receive a $300 Visa gift card3.

1 Program funds are limited and are rewarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Columbia Gas reserves the right to discontinue this program at any time, without notice.

2 This program is available to licensed plumbers only. Reward eligibility is contingent upon Columbia Gas verifying the reported natural gas cross bore is in the Columbia Gas service area.

3 Columbia Gas employees do not carry gift cards.

This article was written by:
Columbia Gas of Ohio

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