A Simple Step to Improve Jobsite Safety: "811 Before You Dig" Decal

AEM and Common Ground Alliance (CGA) are encouraging equipment manufacturers to support safe digging awareness by adding a CGA-approved “811 Before You Dig” Decal to equipment that could potentially damage underground utilities.

Industry Best Practice for Equipment Manufacturers

Inclusion of “811 Before You Dig” Decals on Applicable Equipment Sold in the United States

AEM encourages manufacturers to consider following this industry best practice by incorporating a visible "811 Before You Dig" awareness decal on equipment that, in the manufacturer's judgment, is commonly used in excavation, ground-disturbing, or utility-sensitive applications in the United States.

This best practice encourages that all applicable equipment manufactured for sale in the United States by August 11, 2027 include a visible "811" decal in recognition of National Safe Digging Day.

Read AEM's full best practice statement for details on applicability, implementation guidance and benefits.

Why It Matters

Equipment operators are often the last line of defense against underground utility strikes.

Adding an 811 decal is a simple, visible way for equipment manufacturers to remind operators to contact 811 before digging or working near underground infrastructure.

By placing a visible reminder directly on equipment used for excavation and ground‑engaging activities, manufacturers can help reinforce safe digging behaviors, reduce utility strikes, and contribute to safer worksites.

AEM, in alignment with the principles of the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) Best Practices, supports collaborative industry efforts to prevent damage to underground utilities and enhance jobsite safety.

Who Should Participate?

This best practice is intended for manufacturers of equipment that disturb soil or operate near buried infrastructure.

Examples may include:

  • Excavators, backhoes, graders, and mini‑excavators
  • Vacuum equipment
  • Trenchers and horizontal directional drilling equipment
  • Skid steers and compact track loaders with ground‑engaging attachments
  • Agricultural equipment with soil‑engaging implements
  • Milling equipment
  • Mobile cranes with outriggers
  • Handheld equipment (e.g., augers) 

How to Participate

Review AEM Best Practice Statement and Access 811 Decal Files

Participation is voluntary. In partnership with CGA, AEM encourages manufacturers to add a CGA-approved “811 Before You Dig” decal into existing decal packages on applicable equipment.

  • Review the AEM Best Practice (link to PDF) for guidance on applicability and implementation.
  • Complete the CGA license agreement and download approved artwork through the CGA logo licensing page.

Industry Collaboration

AEM and CGA have also adopted a Statement of Shared Principles that reflects their commitment to working together to advance safe digging awareness, support consistent industry guidance, expand industry education and promote practical tools that help prevent damage to underground infrastructure.