Endorsed by the boards of both organizations, the best practice positions equipment operators as the last line of defense against underground utility strikes. In 2025 alone, an estimated 213,985 damages to underground infrastructure were reported across the United States. The initiative directly supports CGA's goal to reduce damages to underground infrastructure and keep workers and communities both safe and connected to critical utilities.
The recommendation covers both new and existing equipment. For new machines, participating manufacturers will apply the decal during production. For equipment already in the field, equipment owners can request a no-cost license from CGA to reproduce the official 811 decal and retrofit their fleets. Program details, artwork, and licensing information can be found on CGA's website.
"As manufacturers, we provide the equipment, so we have a role to play in reminding every operator to contact 811 if the ground is not clearly marked for utilities," said Kevin Thomas, executive vice president, Industrial Equipment Division, at Alamo Group Inc. and 2027 show Chair of The Utility Expo. "Attendees can expect to see this decal on equipment across the show floor at The Utility Expo 2027 — a clear signal that our industry takes damage prevention seriously."
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