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What To Expect During An Underground Utility Locating Service

September 9, 2024 / Written by: Bess Utility Solutions

September 9, 2024
Written by: Bess Utility Solutions

Key Takeaways

  • Underground utility locating services are vital. They safely find buried utilities, like gas, water, and electric lines, before any digging or construction.
  • Tools like Electromagnetic Locators (EM) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) detect both types of utilities: metallic and non-metallic. They ensure accurate mapping.
  • Calling 811 before digging is a legal requirement. It marks public utilities. For private utilities, use a separate locating service.
  • Accidental utility strikes can create dangerous situations, project delays, and high repair costs. So, proper locating is critical to safety.
  • Hiring certified utility locators ensures high accuracy. It reduces costly mistakes and keeps your project on track.

Before construction or excavation, avoid hitting a buried utility line. It can cause costly delays, repairs, and serious injuries. Underground utility locating services prevent these issues by identifying the exact locations of critical underground utilities before digging starts. 

Utility strikes are common and dangerous. Professional services map the underground infrastructure. This ensures a safe and efficient construction process. During an underground utility locating service, expect professionals to assess the site. They will use advanced tools to detect buried utilities. Then, they will mark their locations and provide a map to ensure safe digging.

Let’s explore what to expect when locating an underground utility service.

Understanding Underground Utilities

Underground utilities are the vital, buried infrastructure. They keep homes, businesses, and cities running. These include water, sewer, gas, and electrical lines, as well as phone and internet cables. Their hidden nature poses a risk during construction if they're not identified before digging.

Types Of Underground Utilities

There are two main categories of underground utilities:

  1. Public Utilities: These are managed by the government or public entities. Their locations can be found using services like 811. Public utilities typically include water mains, sewer lines, and power lines. They serve entire neighborhoods.
  2. Private Utilities: These are owned by individuals or businesses. They can include irrigation systems, private sewers, or underground wiring. Locating these requires a private utility locator.

How Utility Locating Works

Electromagnetic (EM) Locators

Electromagnetic locators send out a signal. It detects conductive materials, like metal pipes and cables. The signal bounces off these objects. It lets the technician trace their exact locations. This method is great for finding metallic utilities, like gas or electric lines.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is another essential tool for utility locating. It emits radio waves into the ground that reflect back when they hit an object. GPR can detect both metallic and non-metallic utilities, like plastic pipes. This makes it very versatile for various locating needs.

Other Methods

In some cases, technicians may use acoustic locators. They detect objects by sending sound waves into the ground. This method is particularly useful in tricky soil conditions. Also, potholing—digging small test holes—may confirm a utility line's depth and location.

What Happens During A Utility Locating Service

Initial Site Assessment

Before starting, the utility locator assesses the site to decide which tools and methods will be most effective. This depends on factors like soil type, the types of utilities expected, and the terrain​.

Marking And Mapping

Once utilities are located, they are marked on the ground using spray paint or flags. Sometimes, a map of the underground utilities is also provided. It gives construction teams a clear view of the underground layout.

Safety And Accuracy

Certified utility locators undergo extensive training to ensure accuracy. They interpret the equipment signals. This ensures the utilities are marked precisely. It reduces the risk of damage or accidents during construction.

When And Why You Need Utility Locating

Legal Requirements

In many areas, it's mandatory to call 811 before you begin any excavation work. This free service marks public utilities but doesn't account for private utilities. For full coverage in commercial or residential projects, hire a pro utility locating service.

Risk Mitigation

Hitting a utility line can cause fires, electrocution, or explosions. These are serious safety hazards. It can cause costly repairs, project delays, and legal issues. Proper utility locating services help to mitigate these risks.

Project Delays and Costs

Unexpected delays in a construction project can be expensive. Before starting, have a utility locating service performed. It will avoid utility strikes, which can cause delays and extra costs. This keeps your project on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an underground utility locating service? 

An underground utility locating service maps buried utility lines. It does this to prevent accidental strikes during construction.

What happens if I hit a utility line? 

Hitting a utility line can cause delays and costly repairs. It may also pose serious safety risks, including fires, explosions, and injuries.

What tools do professionals use to locate utilities?

Technicians use tools like EM Locators and GPR to find underground utilities.

How long does the utility locating process take?

Depending on the size of the site, utility locating can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.

What’s the difference between public and private utilities? 

Public utilities are owned by the city or utility companies. Private utilities are owned by individuals or businesses. They often need separate locating services.

Do I still need utility locating if I’m only doing a small excavation? 

Yes, even small excavations can damage buried utilities. Utility locating is important for any project that involves digging, no matter the size.

Ensure Safe And Accurate Underground Utility Locating With Bess Utility Solutions

Before any excavation or construction, locate underground utilities. This avoids dangers, costly repairs, and project delays. Whether you're dealing with public or private utilities, use trained pros. They will do the job safely and accurately. Bess Utility Solutions uses advanced tech, like EM locators and GPR. They provide complete underground utility locating services to meet your needs.

Contact Bess Utility Solutions to schedule your professional utility locating service and ensure a smooth, safe project from start to finish. 

Get a quote today.


Bess Utility Solutions
Bess Utility Solutions (BESS), provides solutions to mitigate the underground utility related risks associated with the design and construction of civil and infrastructure projects. These solutions include: Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), concrete scanning, underground utility location, vacuum excavation and utility mapping.

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