CSLB Contractor's Law & Business Practice Exam

If you plan to engage in digging or drilling at a job site, whom should you notify first?

1. Environmental Protection Agency

2. County Engineer

3. Regional Underground Service Alert Notification Center

4. Department of Occupational Safety and Health

The correct answer is: Regional Underground Service Alert Notification Center

The correct choice is to notify the Regional Underground Service Alert Notification Center when planning to engage in digging or drilling at a job site. This is crucial because the center serves as a communication hub that alerts utility companies about proposed excavation activities. When you notify them, they can take steps to mark the location of underground utilities, such as water, gas, electric, and telecommunications lines. This helps prevent potentially dangerous accidents, service disruptions, and costly damages that could occur if these utilities are inadvertently hit during the digging or drilling process. In contrast, while informing the Environmental Protection Agency or the Department of Occupational Safety and Health may be necessary for compliance concerning environmental impact or worker safety regulations, neither organization is specifically focused on the immediate concerns regarding underground utility lines. Similarly, the County Engineer may play a role in construction permits and local regulations, but they do not directly handle utility line notifications. Prioritizing communication with the Regional Underground Service Alert Notification Center ensures that safety measures related to underground utilities are addressed first and foremost.