The Common Ground Study sponsored by RSPA's Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) has been completed. The purpose of the Study was to gather and assess information to determine the best of existing one-call notification system and underground facility damage prevention practices. The best practices are recognized by experts in damage prevention to be most effective in preventing damage to underground facilities and protecting the public, excavators, and the environment. The findings of the Study have been published in a report, "Common Ground Study of One-Call Systems and Damage Prevention Best Practices." The Report is available in hard-copy or on-line in a variety of electronic formats, and can be used to inform all damage prevention stakeholders about the best practices for improvement of overall one-call system and damage prevention performance.

OPS has initiated efforts to continue the implementation and development of the best practices. Full representation and participation of all key stakeholders is essential and is being encouraged. The Damage Prevention: Path Forward initiative will lead to the development of a non-profit organization to continue the Common Ground efforts and to address the many issues involved in protecting the nation's underground infrastructure from outside force damage.

See Also: Damage Prevention Quality Action Team