Utility Mapping: the simple way to find underground utility lines

When digging takes place on a construction site, there's every chance that the worker(s) will come across a range of utility lines. In order to avoid any prospective costly damage to these lines, it is crucial to hire the expertise of a utility mapping company, that will show the construction business a layout of where utility lines can be found. What's utility mapping? Utility mapping is a modern-day technology that gives construction companies data showing the whereabouts of various utility lines underground. Utility lines which might be found underground range from mains water lines along with sewer piping, to power cables, television wires and also phone lines. How does utility mapping work? Utility mapping companies give the customer an up-to-date utility lines layout in the form of 2D and three dimensional maps. This doesn’t take a lot of time, and is done via GPS (global positioning system) tools. The utility mapping data is referenced to an arbitrary grid and level datum as standard. The drawing may also be supplied to a specified grid & level datum and/or overlaid on an existing topographical survey. Many different colours may also be used to outline every different utility line - e.g. a different colour for water lines along with a different colour for sewerage lines. Utility mapping technology A range of technologies are employed by these companies in order to locate different utility lines. Utility mapping technologies include electromagnetic detection, acoustic detection, ground penetrating radars and live-line detectors. Different techniques must be implemented to spot different types of matter such as metal, plastic, concrete, ceramic or fibre optic components. Further utility mapping details The customer can also ask for extra details from their utility mapping company. These additional details include things like fixed surface utility features including inspection chambers or perhaps telegraph poles, as well as key topographic features like fence lines as well as kerb lines. Street names, building names along with house numbers can also be in the client’s map to assist in the site location. Why hire the services of a utility mapping business? 1.    Gain confidence and trust from utility owners If the business has proof that they've employed the services of a utility mapping firm, then the specific owners of the utility lines will have much more trust and confidence in the specific building project (they won’t fear damage to utility lines.) 2.    Utilities can be easily located By using the services of a utility mapping company, a site’s construction and maintenance teams can readily identify several utility lines. 3.    Accurate utility map guaranteed It is necessary to contact a utility mapping company prior to any new construction project. Even if a company has a utility map already, that particular map might be outdated where recent upkeep, repair or modifications may have occurred. It may also show utility lines that never actually materialised. 4.    Avoid liability Utility mapping data is frequently added to building designs or construction plans. If this specific data isn’t included in the design or plan, your company could be held accountable for damaged utility lines, resulting in a costly outcome. 5.    Health and safety regulations Businesses can also use utility mapping to comply with health and safety regulations. A utility mapping service is a safe and cost-effective solution for clients who need to undertake excavation works on sites where a record is required for future reference or as part of the pre-construction feasibility and design works. Bearing all these factors in mind, it is also important to use a company with experience and expertise in the field of utility mapping.Detailed maps of underground utilities should be presented in an easy-to-use format and should provide a colour coded drawing of known utilities and key topographic features. All in all, utility mapping has come a long way with its various modern and advanced technologies. It is a legal requirement to contact the authorities before undergoing any construction process. However, by employing the services of an underground utility mapping service will save your company both money and time.