Page 7 - Tennessee 811 Magazine 2022 Issue 1

Texas Gas is safety. The local Kenton station has safety meetings with their entire team of eight folks at least
once a week. They cover a variety of topics from pipeline safety to O&M manuals, to damage prevention. John told me, “Safety is the most important priority when we start our day. Safety is important for the public, our employees, and assets.” Whether it is dealing with an excavator, farmer, or homeowner,
the safety message of 811 is always present. Anytime an excavator is going to be working within fifty feet of their pipeline’s right of way, a Texas Gas representative will be present on site. This not only helps with safety, but also builds trust and a good relationship with the excavator.
John told me, “At Texas Gas, we have two goals: to work safely and to get the job done in a timely manner.” Another important element in building a good relationship with different stakeholders is getting to know who you’re working with. John said, “It starts with getting to know folks on a first name basis. Whether it is someone that works
for a utility, a local or out of state construction company, or someone
in the community that we live or
work around, we want to have a good relationship with them. When we had our PIPE meetings in person before COVID, that was a great opportunity
to talk with the different stakeholders in the different communities.” John
also told me anytime they are asked about 811, he always has a nice Texas Gas hat with the 811 logo on the side to give away. For folks that do not know about call before you dig message, John tells them about how Tennessee 811 has streamlined the process to enter a locate request ticket. “They have made it easy as possible for anyone to enter a ticket,” he says. “Whether that is a homeowner, excavator or member, the process is quick and easy.”
John has a passion for damage prevention and he’s a key component of why we have been successful
in reducing damages in northwest Tennessee, but he’s not a fan of the spotlight and isn’t big on taking credit. He’s always willing to chip in and
help when we come together to put
on events, and he’s big on building relationships. One of the biggest takeaways I’d love for you to have
after reading this article can be summarized by this quote from John, “I would encourage other areas to have all stakeholders come together, just like we have done in Gibson County. It is important to know about upcoming projects and any concerns. That way they can be addressed. It’s important to know what the future holds for the industry.”
John, thanks for your hard work and support. We’re proud to recognize you as this quarter’s Damage Prevention MVP.
Do you know a Damage Prevention MVP who deserves some recognition? Send an email to jfryer@tennessee811.com.
2022, Issue 1 Tennessee811 • 5