ND HB1059

Excavators must notify pipeline operators as soon as reasonably possible upon discovering damage to any underground facility or its protective covering.

If damage results in escape of flammable, toxic, or corrosive gas or liquid, the excavator must immediately call 911 and notify the pipeline operator.

When damage endangers life, health, or property, the excavator must take immediate action to protect the public and property until operator personnel or emergency responders arrive and take charge.

Excavators must delay backfilling the damaged area until the operator investigates, unless the operator authorizes otherwise; repairs must be performed by the operator or qualified personnel authorized by the operator.

An excavator is guilty of a class A misdemeanor if they damage an underground facility, knew or reasonably should have known damage occurred, and failed to notify the operator or violated backfilling requirements.