Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey recently signed a bill that adds extra safety measures to the Arizona Corporation Commission’s (ACC) current regulations regarding damage to underground utility lines.

The measure, sponsored by state Sen. John Kavanagh (R-District 23), requires individuals who damage utility lines to notify 911 in the event of a leak of hazardous gases or liquids.

“In a case where there is damages of this kind, it is critical for quick action to maintain the public’s safety,” ACC Pipeline Safety Director Robert Miller said.

The current law did not require that 911 be contacted in the event of a gas line being hit, but it does require that homeowners and contractors contact Arizona 811 before digging takes place. This pre-digging call ensures that utilities can inspect the area and advise individuals about the location of gas lines as hitting a gas, cable or electric pipe or wire can result in injury or death.

In the new law adding the requirement for 911 notification will reduce the chances for injury and decreases the chances of long-term gas outages.