Chapter 3
3.2 Specifically Defined Geopolitical Service Area with No Overlap

Practice Statement:
The one call centers serving a specifically defined geopolitical area are structured so that an excavator need only make one call, and a facility owner/operator need only belong to a single one call center.
Practice Description:
One call programs are designed to promote ease of use for members (facility owners/operators) and excavators. Although this ease of use is enhanced when a one call center serves a specifically defined geopolitical area that does not overlap with the service area of another one call center, non-overlapping service areas are not essential. There are three requirements that a one call program must meet to be considered as having implemented this best practice:
- The program permits an excavator to use a single point of contact to submit and follow up on a notice of intent to excavate and to notify affected facility owners/operators.
- The program permits a facility owner/operator to join a single one call center and receive all appropriate notices.
- The program is designed so that all pertinent information is shared among one call centers in the event more than one exists.
References:
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One Call Systems International Voluntary Recognition Program
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Existing operating practices from various states’ one call centers
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NTSB Safety Study (NTSB/SS-97/01; PB97-917003)