Access industry-leading resources, best practices, and educational materials from trusted organizations dedicated to underground utility safety and damage prevention.

Industry leader in damage prevention
The Common Ground Alliance (CGA) is the leading organization dedicated to preventing damage to underground utility infrastructure. With over 4,000 members, CGA brings together stakeholders from across the damage prevention industry to share best practices, develop standards, and promote safe digging practices throughout North America.
Learn about CGA's mission to prevent damage to underground utility infrastructure. Access resources, membership information, industry news, and connect with over 4,000 members working together to promote safe digging practices across North America.
Visit CGA HomepageThe definitive guide for underground safety and damage prevention. Version 21.0 features updated and new practices developed by industry experts.
View Best Practices GuideExplore damage prevention information, local contacts, and rules for safe digging in your state. Find state-specific resources and regulations.
Find Your State ResourcesAn interactive data dashboard providing access to 811 center statistics, state-specific regulations, and year-to-year trending data from centers across the United States and Canada. Explore data and regulations by state using filters and controls.
Explore The DashboardJoin over 4,000 members working together to prevent damage to underground utilities. Access exclusive resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights.
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National call-before-you-dig system
The 811 system is the national call-before-you-dig phone number that connects excavators with utility companies to mark underground utilities before digging begins. Calling 811 is required by law in most states and is essential for preventing damage to underground infrastructure and ensuring worker safety.
Understand how the 811 system works, when to call, and what to expect when you make a locate request. Essential information for anyone working near underground utilities.
Visit 811 Before You DigEach state has its own 811 center with specific requirements, timelines, and procedures. Find your state's 811 center and learn about local regulations.
Find Your State Center
Leading advocate for utility construction industry
The National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) is the leading organization representing utility construction contractors across America. As a founding member of the Common Ground Alliance (CGA), NUCA champions industry-leading safety and training programs, advocates for the industry at local and national levels, and provides essential resources for damage prevention, education, and safety in underground utility construction.
Learn about NUCA's mission, membership benefits, and how they advocate for utility contractors and the underground construction industry at local and national levels.
Visit NUCAAccess NUCA's comprehensive damage prevention resources including DIRT reporting tools, damage prevention best practices, and the Claims Avoidance Program (CAP) to reduce excavation incidents.
View Damage Prevention ProgramsExplore NUCA's educational resources including webinars, toolbox talks, training materials, safety programs, and compliance information for OSHA, DOT, and EPA regulations.
View Education & Safety ResourcesExplore additional resources and organizations that support safe excavation practices and damage prevention in the utility industry.
CGA offers comprehensive online damage prevention education programs designed to equip excavators with the knowledge and skills essential for safe excavation. These programs cover best practices, regulatory requirements, and real-world scenarios.
Explore CGA Education Programs