Utility Survey.
At Plot. Surveys Ltd, we specialise in providing comprehensive utility surveys that are essential for the success of your infrastructure and development projects. Whether you are planning construction, excavation, or redevelopment, understanding what lies beneath the surface is crucial to avoid costly surprises and ensure a smooth project work flow.
A utility survey involves the systematic investigation and mapping of underground utilities and services in a particular area. This type of survey's primary aim is to identify, locate, and map the various utility lines such as water mains, gas mains, electrical cable routes, telecommunication lines, and sewer systems.
These surveys are critical in construction and development projects to prevent accidental damage to existing utilities. By using a combination of ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic locators (EML), and other latest technology we can create accurate maps and reports detailing the location and depth of these utilities. The information gathered from these surveys helps in planning, design, and execution of projects to avoid potential disruptions, accidents, or costly damage to essential infrastructure. Please make contact if interested in this service.
Why Choose Our Utility Surveys?
- Advanced Detection Technology: We use cutting-edge tools like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Electromagnetic Location (EML) to accurately detect and map underground utilities.
- Expert Analysis: Utilising our experience delivers detailed and reliable data, allowing you to plan with confidence. The latest software is used for processing of site data.
- Safety First: By identifying underground utilities before breaking ground, we help you avoid potential hazards and costly project delays.
From identifying buried pipes and cables to mapping complex utility networks, Plot. Surveys Ltd. is your trusted partner for accurate, detailed, and timely utility surveys.
Need precise utility data for your next project? Contact us today and ensure your project is built on a foundation of safety and accuracy.
The BSI's PAS 128.
What is PAS 128? PAS 128 stands for Publicly Available Specification 128, a BSI specification used in the United Kingdom that provides guidelines for locating underground utilities. It offers a framework for managing utility infrastructure during excavation or construction projects. The specification categorizes the quality of location information about underground utilities into four defined levels (PAS 128 Quality Levels) ranging from D (Desktop) to A (Verification). These levels help ensure safety and reduce the risk of damaging underground utilities during construction or excavation work.
Here at Plot. Surveys Ltd, we are able to provide PAS 128 compliant utility surveys. This specification is a great tool for giving further insight and guidance to clients on the accuracy of detected buried services on their sites.
PAS 128 Quality Levels:
Quality Level - A (Verified)
Horizontal and vertical location of the top, bottom or
centreline of the utility (to be indicated on drawings).
Visually verified position in a manhole chamber or trial hole for example.
Quality Level - B1 and B1P
Horizontal and vertical location of the utility detected by
one of the geophysical techniques used (EML or GPR)
Symmetrical electromagnetic field achieved resulting in peak and null
measurements within B1 tolerance and/or present in GPR
data where both depth estimates and horizontal location
can be confidently established to the required accuracies.
Quality Level - B2 and B2P
Horizontal and vertical location of the utility detected by
one of the geophysical techniques used (EML or GPR)
Symmetrical field achieved resulting in peak and null
measurements within B2 tolerance and/or present in GPR
data where both depth estimates and horizontal location
can be confidently established to the required accuracies.
Quality Level - B3 and B3P
Horizontal location only of the utility detected by one of
the geophysical techniques used.
EML field unable to estimate depth and horizontal
accuracies within B2 tolerances with confidence.
Features present within the GPR data that indicate the
presence of a utility but do not directly correlate to its
position (e.g. trench sides or fill detected by GPR without
positive identification of utility).
Quality Level - B4 and B4P
A utility segment which is suspected to exist (either on
QL-D or QL-C records) but has not been detected and is
therefore shown as an assumed route.
QL-C
A segment of utility whose location is demonstrated
by visual reference to street furniture, topographical
features or evidence of previous street works
(reinstatement scar).
QL-D
Copy of utility asset record only.
(Desktop search)
Here are several key reasons why customers, particularly those involved in construction, excavation, or development projects, should consider using utility surveys:
- Safety: Underground utilities can pose serious safety risks if they are accidentally damaged during construction or excavation. Gas leaks, electrical faults, or ruptured water or sewer lines can lead to injuries, fatalities, and environmental hazards. A utility survey helps prevent these risks by accurately identifying the location of utilities and ensuring safe work practices.
- Cost Savings: Unplanned utility strikes can result in costly delays, repairs, and legal liabilities. By investing in a utility survey, customers can avoid unexpected expenses, fines, and project setbacks. It allows for more accurate budgeting and project scheduling.
- Legal Compliance: Many regions have strict regulations and permits for excavation and construction work that require a utility survey to be conducted. By adhering to these regulations, customers can avoid legal complications and penalties.
- Project Efficiency: Knowing the exact locations of utilities enables more precise planning and execution of construction projects. Avoiding utility conflicts, redesigns, and rework leads to increased project efficiency and shorter completion times.
- Environmental Protection: Accidental damage to underground utilities can result in soil and water contamination. A utility survey helps minimize the environmental impact of construction activities by preventing spills and leaks.
- Asset Preservation: Protecting underground utilities during construction or excavation helps preserve valuable infrastructure, extending its lifespan and minimizing the need for costly repairs and replacements.
- Public Convenience: Avoiding utility-related disruptions, such as water or power outages, helps maintain the convenience and quality of life for nearby residents and businesses.
- Risk Mitigation: Utility surveys provide valuable data to mitigate project risks, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions and reduce the potential for unforeseen complications.
- Future Planning: Utility surveys help in urban planning and development, as they provide accurate data on the existing utility infrastructure. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about future infrastructure improvements and expansion.
In conclusion, utility surveys are an indispensable tool for anyone involved in construction, excavation, or development projects. They enhance safety, save costs, ensure legal compliance, improve project efficiency, protect the environment, and provide valuable data for long-term planning.