When developers start scoping out a site, they will typically commission an underground utility survey to map exactly what is under the ground, as well as where it is. Underground utility mapping helps developers to see the location of subsurface utility structure – like pipes, cables, ducts, sewers and drainage – before they can plan a project. This allows for environmental constraints to be observed during the design and planning stages, reducing cost and minimising risk.
What is an underground utility survey?
An underground utility survey is used to determine the type and location of subsurface utility infrastructure to create a comprehensive map for a client. This is vital for ensuring the limitations of a project in the early stages.
Mapping using data collected from an underground utility survey reduces project planning time and minimises the risk of costly adjustments to the design or mistakes later in the project.
By using thorough, detailed, and accurate utility survey maps, contractors can work confidently prior to and during excavation, and can provide suitable protection for workers, abiding by health and safety regulations.
What underground utility surveying methods are there?
There are two main types of underground utility survey methods – Radio Frequency Location (RFL) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). Most underground mapping surveys will require a combination of the two to ensure that the map is produced accurately and comprehensively.
Radio Frequency Location (RFL) technology is the most popular data collection method used in underground utility mapping, and it works by tracing the signals emitted by underground targets.
RFL features two modes – passive and active – but most utility surveys use active RFL scanning to determine the position and depth of the target. For RFL to be successful, the target must emit a signal to pick up on the locations and dimensions of metal objects. RFL is useful for collecting information on:
- Metallic fuel pipes
- Metallic vent pipes
- Electricity cables
- Telecommunication cables (metallic)
- Communication cables
- Metallic water pipes
- Metallic gas pipes
- Cable TV cables
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology is used to locate objects of a different material to the surrounding environment. Although GPR is not as exact as RFL because it can’t give exact sizes or material readings, it is useful for finding the location of objects buried underground, which would otherwise be invisible.
GPR surveys are used to detect the following:
- Fibre optic cables
- Plastic gas pipes
- Concrete pipes
- Plastic water pipes
- Clay pipes
- Plastic cable ducts
- Plastic fuel pipes
- Plastic vent pipes
Lucion offers reliable underground utility surveys for consistent delivery of underground mapping. Contact us here or on 0345 5040 303 for more information on how we can support your project.
