Dial Before You Dig to prevent third party damage

11th February 2022

Millions of holes are dug every day across the country and severe damage can be caused if workers don’t check for existing assets before they begin digging.

That’s why Bournemouth Water is urging third party workers across its region to dial before they dig and check for assets to avoid potentially extreme damage.

Bournemouth Water maintains around 19,000km of underground water pipes and these are at constant risk of damage by people digging without knowing what’s below them or taking adequate precautions.

Richard Stanbrook, Director of Drinking Water Services at Bournemouth Water, said: “On average, we experience around 100 incidents caused by third party damage every year.

“Water in our pipes is under pressure and damaged pipes could cause injury to workers or people around them, as well as harm to the surrounding area and natural environment. On top of this, it can cause disruptions to our customers’ water supplies in the communities we serve.

“That’s why we’ve created an information flyer to explain how we can help trace a water main or discuss a main diversion to avoid the unwanted and avoidable damage caused by these incidents.”

With the potential cost of repairs, fines and fees being significant and likely to cause lengthy delays to a project, contractors can dial before they dig by calling Bournemouth Water on 0120 259 1111 (between 8am-6pm Monday to Friday and 9am-1pm Saturday) or 0344 346 2020 (for emergencies outside the hours above).