Understanding Subsurface Safety and Design Obligations with Ryan Parrish

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Ryan Parrish, a liaison with Pennsylvania 811, to discuss the critical topic of excavation safety. As we dive into the conversation, Ryan shares his role as a middleman between underground utility companies, designers, engineers, and the One Call center, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness in preventing accidents during excavation projects.

Ryan highlights the significance of calling before you dig, a well-known mantra in the industry, but he also elaborates on the various educational initiatives he leads, including the PA1 Call Safety Days. These events bring together municipal officials, engineers, and excavators to discuss their obligations and best practices for safe excavation. With five events scheduled across Pennsylvania, Ryan encourages listeners to participate and stay informed.

The discussion shifts to current trends in excavation safety, with Ryan pointing out that proper design is crucial for successful and safe excavation projects. He stresses that designers must provide accurate and up-to-date plans to excavators to avoid hitting underground utilities, which can lead to costly damages and legal disputes. Ryan also addresses the responsibilities of project owners, urging them to ensure that their designers have the necessary information to create safe excavation plans.

As the conversation progresses, we touch on recent legislative changes affecting excavation safety and the importance of compliance with PA One Call laws. Ryan explains the role of the Public Utilities Commission in enforcing these regulations and the necessity for project owners to be aware of their obligations regarding underground utilities.

One of the standout topics of this episode is the introduction of Coordinate PA, a new application designed to facilitate communication among project stakeholders. Ryan explains how this tool helps coordinate large projects, ensuring that all parties are on the same page and can collaborate effectively to avoid unnecessary disruptions and costs.

Throughout the episode, Ryan emphasizes the importance of safety and communication in the excavation industry. He encourages excavators to take their time on job sites, re-notify 811 if they notice any issues, and utilize the resources available to them, including the free services offered to homeowners.

In closing, we reflect on the need to spread awareness about the importance of calling 811 before any excavation work, whether for professional contractors or homeowners. Ryan's insights provide valuable information for anyone involved in construction and excavation, making this episode a must-listen for industry professionals and the general public alike.

Join us as we continue to explore the vital aspects of safety in the construction industry, and don't forget to visit buildingpapodcast.com for more resources and past episodes!