What is a Utility Survey?

Also known as underground surveys – Utility surveys are essential for construction projects, providing critical data about the location and depth of underground utilities, thus ensuring that construction work doesn’t interfere with or damage vital services such as water, gas, electricity, drainage, sewage, and telecommunications.

By conducting a utility survey you can map out the underground infrastructure, helping contractors and engineers plan projects safely and efficiently. These surveys are especially important as construction spaces become more limited.

The Importance of a Utility Survey

Striking an underground utility can result in significant financial costs, project delays, and safety hazards for workers. The survey will help identify the precise location of these utilities, allowing you to plan excavation and construction work without disrupting essential services. This ensures that your project does not interfere with third-party assets.

How Does a Utility Survey Work?

The process typically involves these steps:

• Initial Planning and Assessment: We start by discussing your project requirements to tailor the survey to your needs.
• Field Survey: We use advanced equipment such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electromagnetic Location (EML), and CCTV inspections to identify underground utilities.
• Data Collection and Mapping: We gather precise location and depth data, which is then analysed and mapped using industry standards like OSGB36 for accurate positioning.
• Delivery of Results: The data is provided in formats that suit your project, including 2D plans, 3D models, CAD files, and Revit models. We can also deliver basic utility data through desktop surveys for simpler projects.

Equipment Needed In A Utility Survey

The equipment used in utility surveys can vary depending on soil conditions and the specific needs of the project. Key tools include Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), which sends radio signals into the ground to create images of underground features, offering a non-invasive and cost-effective way to identify utilities without the need for digging or drilling.

Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT) are used to detect underground cables and prevent accidental damage, with multiple modes for tracing power signals and detecting metallic services.

Signal Generators (Genny) are used alongside the CAT to help locate buried utilities by tracing the signals sent through underground cables.

Conclusion

Utility surveys are vital for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and success of any construction project. By identifying underground utilities early on, you can avoid unnecessary delays, reduce costs, and prevent accidents. 

At South West Surveys, we offer comprehensive utility mapping services tailored to your specific project needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your next project with accurate and reliable utility surveys.

This post was written by Nick White