This legislation would directly impact the responsibilities of utility operators and excavators by requiring timely communication regarding the locations of subsurface installations. Operators will have five working days to inform the excavator about the status of installations that may be impacted. The bill also addresses civil penalties for non-compliance, potentially assessing fines of up to $5,000 per day for violations, which emphasizes the importance of following established guidelines to prevent accidents and promote public safety.
Summary
Senate Bill 3078 proposes amendments to existing statutes in Hawaii concerning advance warnings for excavation work. The bill aims to enhance safety measures by establishing clearer protocols for notifying utility operators and excavators of potential risks associated with subsurface installations. New definitions are introduced for 'locator' and 'release,' and existing definitions for 'emergency' and 'excavation' are refined to specify the nature of the operations covered under the bill. By expanding the scope of existing regulations, the bill aims to reduce incidents and hazards resulting from excavation activities.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB 3078 appears to be positive, as it emphasizes the importance of public safety and the protection of critical utility infrastructure. Stakeholders, including utility companies and safety advocates, likely see the bill as a necessary step toward mitigating risks associated with excavation work. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the new requirements and whether all stakeholders have the resources and knowledge to comply effectively.
Contention
Despite the overall support, some points of contention may emerge regarding the enforcement of penalties and the practicality of the new reporting requirements. Critics could argue that imposing substantial fines might disproportionately affect smaller operators who may struggle to meet compliance deadlines. Additionally, there are concerns that the bill may not adequately address the educational aspect needed for excavators and utility companies, which is crucial for the successful implementation of these new rules.