Sec. 21. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a person responsible for an excavation or a demolition operation under section 14 of this chapter that results in damage to an underground facility shall:
(1) immediately upon discovery of the damage, notify the operator of the facility and the association of the location and nature of the damage; and
(2) allow the operator of the facility reasonable time to accomplish necessary repairs before completing the excavation or demolition in the immediate area of the facility.
(b) A person responsible for an excavation or a demolition operation under section 14 of this chapter that results in damage to an underground facility permitting the escape of flammable, toxic, or corrosive gas or liquid shall:
(1) immediately upon discovery of the damage, notify the operator and the association and local police and fire departments having jurisdiction; and
(2) take other action necessary to protect persons and property and to minimize the hazards until arrival of the operator's personnel or police and fire personnel.