Damage Prevention

Any time you dig, you need to know what’s below the surface to avoid dangerous contact with buried utilities.

Obtaining utility locates prior to starting work, and following safe digging rules is critical to keep you and others safe and protect underground infrastructure from damage. Damage can lead to serious consequences, including service disruptions, costly repairs, leaks, explosions and serious injuries.

Common Activities Requiring a Utility Locate

Any activity that disturbs soil requires a Utility Locate.

Homeowners:

Tree removal or planting
Landscaping
Installing a deck
Fencing
Installing a mailbox

Contractors:

Landscaping
Fencing
Installing signs
Staking
Rebar
Grading
Water, sewer, wire or cable installations
Home construction

Request a Locate

Before You Dig

Plan out your dig area and physically mark the area with stakes or white paint

Before you start your project, visit Utility Safety Partners or call 1-800-242-3447 to request utility locates. This service is free, and a representative from Apex Utilities will contact you when the locate work order is scheduled and dispatched in our system, or we will visit your project site, to mark the approximate location of Apex Utilities’ buried natural gas pipelines.

After we’ve visited your project site and marked the approximate location of our buried utilities, the pipeline must be exposed by hand before you begin using mechanical excavation equipment in that area.

Mechanical equipment cannot be used within:

1 metre of located distribution mains & service pipelines.
5 metres of located high pressure pipelines.

Please note: After the located pipelines have been exposed by hand, mechanical equipment must not be used within 60 centimetres of a high pressure pipeline and 30 centimetres of a distribution main or service line. There must also be at least 30 centimetres clearance between the bottom of our pipeline(s) and the top of the crossing pipeline(s) or works.

See additional requirements for working near High Pressure Pipelines below.

If your dig area changes from the original scope, submit a revised locate request through Utility Safety Partners.

Never assume the location or depth of buried lines. Don’t assume the line runs straight. Gas lines can change depth and direction rapidly. If you have questions about a locate please call our customer service hotline at 1-866-222-2067.

Safe Digging & Emergencies

For more information on safe digging practices, visit Utility Safety Partners, Alberta Energy Regulator (AER), and refer to the Alberta Pipeline Act.

Any contact or damages to Apex Utilities equipment or pipelines, regardless of severity, must be reported to our 24-hour emergency line at 1-866-222-2068.

If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and do not use electrical devices or open flames. Shut off all ignition sources.

Working Near High-Pressure Pipelines

Working Near High-Pressure Pipelines
If the proposed excavation is within 30 metres of a high-pressure pipeline, contact us prior to starting work. One of our technicians is required to be present on-site during excavation and backfilling activities around the pipeline.

A crossing or proximity agreement is required for all high-pressure pipeline excavations.

Read all documentation provided to you when you contact us thoroughly before starting work.

Protecting Natural Gas Infrastructure

Natural gas infrastructure is essential for providing safe and reliable energy to homes and businesses. However, both underground and above-ground components can be vulnerable to damage. Awareness and proactive measures can prevent accidents and ensure uninterrupted service. Landscaping, grading, fencing and other construction projects require careful planning to avoid utility damage. Digging without proper utility locates can damage underground gas lines. Avoid planting trees, shrubs, or deep-rooted plants near gas lines to prevent root intrusion.

Click Before You Dig or call 1-800-242-3447 before you start your project to request utility locates.

Meter Access & Protection

Natural gas piping feeds fuel to your appliances, and a gas meter measures the amount of natural gas delivered to your home or business. The areas around a gas meter should be kept clear, so utility workers and emergency responders can access it at all times. Ice, snow, large storage boxes, garden tools, and vegetation inhibit us from performing periodic safety checks, routine maintenance, and access in the event of an emergency.

Keep the Area Around the Meter Free and Clear

Do not let snow cover the meter and piping. Gently brush off snow or ice with a soft broom or brush

Protect the meter from overhead hazards such as snow build-up on your roof

Prevent dripping water from splashing or freezing onto the meter or connections

Do not lean things against, or hang things from, the meter and piping

Do not build permanent structures such as decks, porches, or sheds around the meter

Do not tie pets to the meter

Do not tamper with the meter or equipment

Final Precautions

If the meter is located in an area where damage by vehicles or other equipment could occur, install bollards or guards to protect it. For more information on your responsibilities to protect our lines and equipment, take a look at Part 4 of our Natural Gas Utility Service Rules.

If you’re planning to demolish a building or structure, contact us to disconnect gas service before demolition begins.

Any contact or damages to Apex Utilities equipment or pipelines, regardless of severity, must be reported to our 24-hour emergency line at 1-866-222-2068. If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and do not use electrical devices or open flames. Shut off all ignition sources.