Page 3 - Arkansas 811 Magazine 2022 Issue 3

Publisher’s Perspective
Recently, I read there is an “alarming rise” in trench-related worker deaths. And as you might expect, it has prompted OSHA to launch “enhanced enforcement initiatives” and outreach efforts to protect workers from known hazards. Through the first half of this year, the agency has recorded 22 trenching deaths and that represents a 47% increase from the 15 recorded in all of 2021.
Along with that information, I saw a recent Associated General Contractors (AGC) national survey. When asked, “What challenges, if any, do you see regarding the safety and health of your firm’s workers?” 83%
of the respondents stated the biggest concern was “Inexperienced skilled labor/workforce shortage.”
It follows that when you have a significant inexperienced workforce the potential for injuries or death is increased.
In light of these and other equally startling facts, 811 Magazines became an associate member of NUCA - Middle Tennessee Chapter and soon will apply for associate membership of AGC – Arkansas. Over the last 15 years, I’ve developed great relationships with contractors across the country, some who are supporters of enforcement of the state’s dig laws and others who are opposed to it. Both have their reasons. However, it seems to me that when excavators/contractors are involved, the laws are typically more balanced because the laws benefit from the excavator’s perspective before they become law.
It is good to see contractors serving on 811 Boards, enforcement boards and committees. Many of our Damage Prevention Summits in other states routinely have increased participation from excavators as attendees and sitting on panels or presenting stand-alone sessions from their perspectives and experiences.
I’m convinced when we see each other as equals; contractors, locators, utility personnel and regulators, then and only then will we be able to move beyond pointing fingers and the rhetoric of safe digging.
The next Damage Prevention Summit is moving to a new date and location. Mark your calendar for February 20 -22, 2023 at the Embassy Suites in Little Rock. Expect to hear from OSHA and PSC. Sessions will continue to focus on fair and effective enforcement, safety, and what it takes to get it done.
If you want to be in the loop on these and other relevant topics, we look forward to seeing you there. Go to www.arkansas.damagepreventionsummit.com to learn more about why it is the conference to attend.
We thank the advertisers who make it possible for the 811 Magazine to be delivered to you each quarter. We are grateful for those of you who have taken the time to provide feedback to us about the topics covered.
I don’t know if zero damages is possible... I only know it’s necessary! Dig safely...
Roger Cox President ACTS Now, Inc.
2022, Issue 3
Arkansas 811 Magazine • 1