NORTH CAROLINA – On National Safe Digging Day, observed annually on August 11th, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are urging customers and contractors to prioritize safety by calling 811 before beginning any excavation projects.
The reminder comes as both utilities report significant damage to their underground infrastructure, with more than 5,000 incidents recorded in their service territories during the first six months of 2025 alone.
The 811 Process: A Critical Safety Step
National Safe Digging Day, also known as 811 Day, is an annual initiative led by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The campaign promotes safe excavation practices through a simple nationwide toll-free number: 811.
When called at least three business days before digging begins, 811 connects callers to their local utilities, which then dispatch crews to mark underground lines in the designated area. These markings identify the locations of electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, cable TV, and other utility lines using stakes, flags, or paint.
Damage Statistics Paint Concerning Picture
The scale of underground utility damage across Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas service territories highlights the critical need for proper safety protocols:
- Total damages (January-June 2025): More than 5,000 incidents across North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana
- Natural gas facility damages: Approximately 1,450 incidents in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, and Kentucky
- Electric network damages: About 3,600 incidents across all Duke Energy service territories
- 2024 full-year total: More than 8,870 damages to natural gas and electric lines combined
Industry Leaders Stress Prevention
“Whether you’re finishing a summer yard project or starting something new this fall, call 811 before you dig,” said Brian Weisker, senior vice president and president of Duke Energy’s natural gas business. “Damaging a utility line can be dangerous and costly, but it’s easily prevented by this simple step. Safety and reliability start with contacting 811.”
How to Access 811 Services
Contractors, homeowners, business owners, and anyone planning excavation work can access 811 services through multiple channels:
- Phone: Dial 811 from anywhere in the United States
- Online: Visit call811.com for state-specific contact information
- Additional resources: Duke Energy provides detailed information at Call 811 Before You Dig
About the Companies
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) is a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, serving as one of America’s largest energy holding companies. The utility serves 8.6 million electric customers across six states and owns 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Duke Energy is actively pursuing an ambitious energy transition focused on grid upgrades and cleaner generation technologies.
Piedmont Natural Gas, a Duke Energy subsidiary, distributes natural gas to more than 1.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The company recently earned the top ranking in customer satisfaction for residential natural gas service in the South among large utilities, according to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study.
For more information about safe digging practices and 811 services, visit call811.com or duke-energy.com.
