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The Wilkins Group, Inc.

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  • Richardson, TX 75081-6700
  • 877-822-1718

    Fall 2024 HDDA Meeting & Training Conference Recap

    Telecom Training in Richardson, TX

    The Wilkins Group team had the pleasure of attending the Fall 2024 Horizontal Directional Drilling Association (HDDA) Meeting and Training Conference in Mesquite, Texas. This annual event brought together industry professionals, utility experts, and safety advocates to discuss critical updates and best practices that impact our field operations and safety culture. We’re excited to share a few highlights from the conference and how it will shape our approach moving forward.

    Setting the Tone: Mission and Cultural Values

    The day kicked off with a members meeting from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, focusing on the HDDA’s mission to promote safety, education, and communication within the industry. Discussions emphasized the need for heightened awareness around line strike prevention and incorporating these principles as a fundamental part of every company’s culture. This aligns closely with our own values at The Wilkins Group, as we continually strive to prioritize safety and accountability across all our projects.

    Atmos Energy’s Presentation: Understanding the Dangers of Gas Strikes

    One of the key takeaways came from Atmos Energy’s 30-minute presentation on the dangers of a gas strike and the critical steps to take should one occur. This session was eye-opening, reinforcing that even minor mistakes can have severe consequences for workers, communities, and property. Atmos Energy’s presentation underscored the importance of training and quick action when responding to emergencies.

    Atmos Energy shared real-world scenarios and preventative strategies to ensure all team members are equipped with the knowledge to react promptly and safely. It was a reminder that vigilance and preparedness are essential at every stage of a project.

    Texas 811: The Essentials of Locate Tickets and Positive Contact

    Following Atmos Energy, Texas 811 took the stage to discuss a cornerstone of safe digging practices: the locate ticket. Their 30-minute presentation focused on how to properly fill out a locate ticket, ensuring that all pertinent information is accurately captured. The importance of making positive contact with all utility providers on the dig ticket before beginning any excavation work was a key message. This not only minimizes risk but also fosters better communication and collaboration between all parties involved.

    The Texas 811 team provided practical advice on streamlining the ticketing process, reducing errors, and avoiding miscommunications that could lead to hazardous situations. Their insights have motivated us to re-evaluate our own ticket management processes and reinforce the significance of precision and clarity in our operations.

    Looking Ahead: Implementing New Safety Measures

    The Fall 2024 HDDA Conference was more than just a learning experience—it was a call to action. Our team walked away with a renewed commitment to enhancing our safety practices, particularly in the realm of line strike prevention and utility coordination. With the knowledge gained from industry leaders like Atmos Energy and Texas 811, we’re already exploring new strategies to ensure that these critical lessons become ingrained in The Wilkins Group’s safety protocols.

    Final Thoughts

    As a company, The Wilkins Group is dedicated to staying at the forefront of industry standards and safety measures. Attending conferences like the Fall 2024 HDDA Meeting and Training Conference is just one way we continue to grow and learn as a team. We’re eager to integrate the insights we gained into our daily operations and strengthen our commitment to a culture of safety and excellence.

    Thank you to HDDA, Atmos Energy, and Texas 811 for a fantastic and informative event. We look forward to the next opportunity to engage with our peers, share ideas, and continue driving the industry forward in a safe and responsible manner.

    Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing initiatives and safety advancements.