Groundbreaking: Alberta’s Alternative Locate Provider Program
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Are you ready to dig deeper into Alberta’s excavation safety? In the newest episode of The Safety Moment Podcast, host Mike Sullivan dives into the details of Alberta’s newly launched Alternate Locate Provider (ALP) program. Episode 61 of The Safety Moment Podcast brings together industry experts Ron Laidman from Enertia Solutions and Iain Stables from ATCO Gas to discuss this innovative program, which is poised to revolutionize the damage prevention process in Alberta.
The ALP program, introduced just one week ago after over two years of development, marks a significant shift in how locates can be managed and performed in the province. Traditionally, locating underground utilities has been a bottleneck in the damage prevention process, often leading to delays and inefficiencies. However, with the introduction of the ALP, Alberta is stepping into a new era of flexibility, efficiency, and safety.
So, what exactly is the ALP, and why is it such a game-changer? At its core, the ALP presents the digging community with an option — an alternative way for excavators to have locates completed. Instead of being bound by the constraints of the traditional consortium model, which often resulted in delays due to limited locator availability, the ALP opens the field to a broader range of approved locate service providers. This not only increases capacity but also allows for more direct communication between the excavator and the locator, which is crucial for understanding the specifics of each project.
One of the most significant outcomes of this new program is the approval of over 100 new locators to meet the demands of Alberta’s busy digging season. As Mike, Ron, and Iain discuss, this increase in capacity is unprecedented and addresses a long-standing issue in the province’s damage prevention process. The ALP doesn’t just add more locators — it adds highly trained professionals who have undergone a rigorous assessment protocol to ensure they meet the high standards required to maintain the integrity of the process.
But the ALP is more than just a solution to delays. It’s a voluntary program designed to offer flexibility to those who need it. Excavators can now choose to work directly with an ALP-approved locate service provider, giving them more control over their projects and helping to reduce the likelihood of damage by improving communication and understanding between all parties involved. And while the ALP is a significant step forward, it’s important to note that it is an optional tool. Those who prefer the traditional locate process can continue as before, ensuring that the ALP adds value without forcing change on those who aren’t ready for it.
As the discussion unfolds, the guests highlight the collaborative effort that brought the ALP to life, involving stakeholders from across the industry. The result is a program that not only meets the immediate needs of Alberta’s digging community but also sets the stage for future growth and adaptation. In five years, the ALP is expected to become a common tool in Alberta’s damage prevention toolkit, much like the Hydrovac has become an essential part of the industry.
Episode 61 of The Safety Moment podcast is a must-listen for anyone involved in Alberta’s excavation and utility sectors. Whether you’re an excavator, a utility owner, or simply interested in how innovative solutions are shaping the future of safety, the insights shared by Mike, Ron, and Iain provide a comprehensive look at what the ALP means for Alberta and beyond. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of damage prevention — tune-in and learn how the ALP is paving the way for a safer, more efficient industry.
