There will be more digging, sawing and hammering in yards across the province of Manitoba this summer due to an improved underground natural gas and electricity line locate system recently introduced by Manitoba Hydro.

Also known as Call Before You Dig, the new line locate system involves switching from a paper form to an electronic process. Manitoba Hydro customers no longer need to be on-site to sign the required line locate clearance form. The new system also features a shorter processing time frame that allows for a quicker start on landscaping projects such as building a deck, digging a garden or flower bed or planting a tree — all of which require a line locate.

Linda Hird recently had a line locate done on her property before digging a hole for a purple martin birdhouse pole. More like a bird condo, a purple martin birdhouse typically houses many birds and requires a sturdy pole that needs to be set well into the ground. She was pleased with the efficiency of the process.

"I phoned for a line locate on a Friday and Manitoba Hydro staff marked the lines that Tuesday," said Hird. "Then they emailed the permit that afternoon and we were able to dig the next day. It was excellent."

The change to an electronic process became possible following August 2014 amendments to the Gas Pipe Line Excavations Regulation within the Gas Pipe Line Act.

The streamlined system also benefits Manitoba's contractors.

"The new system makes better use of my time and Manitoba Hydro's," said Burt Vandal, owner of Vandal Enterprises. "My staff and I aren't waiting for Hydro anymore and they're not waiting for us."

Under the new system, when customers call Manitoba Hydro's contact centre, they are asked to provide verbal descriptors about the site that requires a line locate.

"Manitoba Hydro then schedules the line locate for the next available opportunity and sends the customer a comprehensive email by the end of the same day the locate is scheduled for," said Morrison. "That email provides the clearance form, an electronic map of the area with the hazards identified and links to every safe excavation practice they need to follow — laws, guidelines, and provincial regulations — all in one package. Customers are provided with full details in written communication that better matches what is physically on the ground."

According to Morrison, the majority of damages occur when safety practices aren't followed so the potential for incidence could be reduced with safety practices now embedded in the customer email for quick reference.

To book a line locate appointment, call 1-888-MBHYDRO (1-888-624-9376) or in Winnipeg call 204-480-1212. For more information: Call before you dig – line location.