If you work in the construction industry, you are likely familiar with companies that provide underground scanning services. You’ve probably used them on multiple projects before excavation begins to determine whether there are utility lines or other buried hazards in the area where you plan to dig. This helps keep you and your crew safe, especially considering the dangers of striking a gas or electrical line. Locating underground hazards can also help you avoid project delays and unexpected costs caused by damaging buried infrastructure.
But what if you’re not a general contractor or engineer who regularly works with underground scanning services? How do you know who to call or what to ask for?
In this article, we’ll provide a basic understanding of underground scanning services, explain when you may need them, and outline what information to request so you get the results you need.
What Are Underground Scanning Services?
Underground scanning services use non-destructive methods to locate and identify subsurface objects such as pipes, cables, voids, and tanks before construction, excavation, or drilling begins. These services primarily rely on Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) induction to create an accurate picture of underground conditions without the need for exploratory digging.
In the underground scanning industry, some services locate public utility lines for free, while private companies provide more comprehensive scanning services for a fee. The free service, which is funded by utility companies, is limited in scope. It typically only scans certain areas and provides basic deliverables. Most property owners and contractors require more detailed information than the free service can offer.
Private underground scanning companies can evaluate virtually any area you need inspected and often provide a variety of deliverables, including digital files, surface markings, and comprehensive written reports.
When Do You Need Underground Scanning Services?
Underground scanning services are highly recommended anytime you plan to dig, excavate, or drill into the ground. The information provided by these services can help prevent injuries, protect equipment, and avoid damage to buried utility lines, tanks, or other underground hazards.
Scans should be completed well before the start of a project so that if anything is detected in the planned work area, adjustments can be made before excavation begins.
Who Should You Call and What Should You Ask for?
If you only need to locate public utility lines on your property, you can call 8-1-1 to schedule a free utility locating service. However, if you want a more complete understanding of subsurface conditions, you should look for a private underground scanning company, sometimes referred to as a utility locating service.
When choosing a provider, prioritize companies that use multiple scanning technologies. Having access to different tools can help confirm findings or provide additional information if the initial scan is inconclusive.
When scheduling service, you may be asked questions such as:
- Where is the property located?
- Approximately how large is the area that needs to be scanned?
- Are there any obstacles that could prevent a technician from accessing the ground surface?
- What is the composition of the ground (rocky soil, sand, hard clay, etc.)?
- What type of information or deliverable are you looking for?
The answers to these questions help the company determine what equipment will be needed and how long the job is likely to take, allowing them to provide an accurate project estimate.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your own. A reputable company should be willing to explain the process, answer your concerns, and help you feel confident about the service being provided.
By understanding how underground scanning services work and when to use them, you can make safer, more informed decisions that help keep your project on schedule and avoid costly surprises.
