Broadband

SQUTI Certification Program

Safety Qualified Underground Telecommunications Installer

What Is This Program?

Minnesota’s New Safety Requirement for Broadband Workers

In 2024, Minnesota introduced a critical safety measure to protect workers, infrastructure, and public safety during underground telecommunications installations. The law mandates that workers complete a 40-hour training and certification program to ensure compliance with safety standards when working near or crossing existing utilities.

  • 7-County Metro Area: Effective July 1, 2025
  • Statewide: Effective January 1, 2026

Required under: Minnesota Statutes §326B.198

Who Needs This Certification?

This certification is essential for professionals involved in the installation of:

  • Underground broadband, fiber, or phone lines when:
    • Projects utilize directional drilling, and/or
    • Work is being conducted within 10 feet of existing utilities.

This may include:

  • Drill operators.
  • Locators.
  • Fiber crew members.
  • Contractors and subcontractors working on telecommunications projects.

What Does the Training Cover?

The 40-hour certification course thoroughly prepares workers with essential safety knowledge and practical skills, covering topics such as:  Safe digging and excavation procedures:

  • Utility locating and hydro-excavation techniques.
  • Drill head tracking for precision installations.
  • Effective response to utility strikes and emergency situations.
  • Traffic control and hazard avoidance strategies.

Certification Requirements:

  • Successful completion of seven learning modules and associated exams.
  • A 4-hour refresher course is required every three years to maintain active certification.

How to Get Certified

For Instructors, request instructor certification for the SCUTI course HERE

  • Training Formats: in-person, asynchronous, or hybrid. Hands-on: at a training location or directly on your job site.

Need assistance or have questions? Contact us at (952) 941-8693 or [email protected].

ABC Minnesota/North Dakota—SQUTI Program 

This program complies with MN Statute §326B.198 and fulfills legal certification requirements for underground telecom infrastructure work.

Need assistance or have questions? Contact us at (952) 941-8693 or [email protected].

 

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