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What Is the Tolerance Zone? Safe Excavation Rules Every Contractor Should Know

Article Summary The tolerance zone is the high-risk area surrounding a marked underground utility where mechanized digging is restricted. Understanding it is one of the most effective ways to prevent utility strikes, protect your crew, and keep every project safe and on schedule. Table of Contents Before any excavation begins, one of the most critical […]
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Jul 09

Considering a Career as a Utility Locator? Here's What You Need to Know

Article Summary Utility locating is a skilled, hands-on career that protects underground infrastructure and keeps communities safe. Northern Lights is actively hiring across 21 states — no experience required, with training and development provided from day one. Table of Contents Have you ever considered a career as a utility locator? Utility locators protect underground infrastructure […]
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Jul 01

A Day in the Life of a Utility Locator: What the Job Really Looks Like

Article Summary A behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of a utility locator at Northern Lights — from morning ticket reviews to on-site marking, safety, and documentation — and why this skilled, character-first career keeps communities connected. Table of Contents What happens before a utility locator arrives on site? A day in the […]
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Jul 01

The 811 Locate Request Process: How Utility Marking Works Before You Dig

Article Summary Every digging project legally begins with an 811 locate request. This guide walks through the full process — from submitting a ticket to reading the positive response — so your crew can dig safely and stay compliant in every state. Table of Contents Before any digging project begins, the first step is submitting […]
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Jul 01

APWA Color Codes for Underground Utilities: What Every Excavator Needs to Know

Article Summary The APWA color code system uses six standardized colors to identify underground utilities before excavation. Knowing what each color and marking style means helps excavators quickly assess a job site and avoid costly, dangerous strikes. Table of Contents When utilities are marked in the field, there's a standardized system used across the industry […]
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Jul 01

Why Utility Locating Is a Fast-Growing Career Field

Josh Wilson shares his journey from imaging tech to leadership at Northern Lights, showcasing career growth and internal promotion in utility locating services.
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Jun 24

Building Trust in Utility Locating

Discover how Northern Lights Utility Locating builds trust through transparency and communication in Indiana's utility locating industry with Jess Miller.
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Jun 24

Growing Utility Locating Operations with Integrity and Vision

Discover how Ben Baker is helping Northern Lights Utility Locating scale operations and expand quality underground locating services across the Midwest.
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Jun 24
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