Utility Locating Process

Review old as-builts and interview facilities personnel regarding whereabouts of above ground and underground utilities.

Perform an initial on-site consultation with the client to determine the scope of work.

Perform a visual inspection of the site, survey area, and inside all utility vaults and nearby buildings to search for visual evidence of underground utilities.

Conduct an active mode cable and pipe locator survey by applying a radio signal to all accessible conductive wires by wrapping a transmitter clamp around them; to metallic conduits and pipes via direct connection of an alligator clamp to their metal surfaces; and snake all non-metallic pipes and conduits with a detectable duct rod.

Conduct a passive mode cable and pipe locator survey via power, radio, and induction mode to search for inaccessible high voltage electric (HVE), telecommunication lines, and inaccessible, abandoned and unknown lines.

Conduct a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey to search for inaccessible, abandoned and unknown lines.

Designate the location and depth of underground utilities with paint and/flags, using AWPA color codes (PDF).

Perform a final on-site consultation with the client to explain the results of the survey, including a thorough explanation of any limitations or areas of concern.