What is BC Common Ground Alliance?

Click to download Best Practices Version 1.0 (7.3Meg PDF file)

The British Columbia Common Ground Alliance is a non-profit organization established to lead development of consistent practices and coordination of activities to ensure the highest possible standards of public safety, worker safety and damage prevention in connection with underground infrastructure. The BC Common Ground Alliance is affiliated with the Common Ground Alliance in the United States and with other similar partner groups in Quebec, Ontario and Alberta. (see www.commongroundalliance.com and www.orcga.com).

Why is BC Common Ground Alliance needed?

British Columbia is undergoing a period of extraordinary development activity. Growth in the economy, the real estate boom, and initiatives associated with the 2010 Olympics have together resulted in unprecedented construction activity throughout the Province. With increased ground disturbance, however, comes increased risk of hitting a gas line or crucial underground communications link. British Columbia has been more fortunate than many jurisdictions in escaping a major incident causing injury or death as the result of disruption of underground infrastructure; however, key stakeholders are not prepared to wait for such an incident to occur before acting.

The BC Common Ground Alliance, by providing for agreement on Best Practices, the exchange of information and improved coordination of activities, provides our best surety against future incidents.

How Will You Benefit?

The benefits of participation in the BC Common Ground Alliance include:

• ongoing contact and information exchange among underground stakeholders;
• participation in developing damage prevention Best Practices for British Columbia;
• greater consistency and standards;
• improved worker and community safety;
• fewer working days lost to accidents or work stoppage;
• input into regulatory development;
• demonstration of due diligence in the event of an incident; and
• recognition as a responsible partner in safety and damage prevention..