TSA Guideline

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE
TO PAS128:2014
UTILITY DETECTION,
VERIFICATION
& LOCATION
DETAILED GUIDANCE NOTES

FOR SPECIFYING A UTILITY
SURVEY INCORPORATING
ADVICE ON HOW TO GET
THE BEST OUT OF PAS128
ISSUE 5 DECEMBER 2017 ©TSA

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 A brief history of these guidance notes

1.2 Objectives

1.3 Process

1.4 Definition

1.5 Benefits

1.6 What is involved in a utility survey?

1.7 General considerations in procuring a utility survey

1.8 Limitations/Expectations/Misconceptions

1.9 Survey intensity and the ‘law of diminishing returns’

1.10 Depth ranges and determination

1.11 What one should look for in a utility survey contractor
SECTION 2 EQUIPMENT AND TECHNIQUES
2.1 Electromagnetic locators (EML)
2.2 Ground probing radar (GPR)
2.3 Other detection techniques
2.4 Closed circuit television (CCTV)
SECTION 3 LEVELS OF SURVEY
3.1 Survey Type D: Desktop Utilities Record Search
3.2 Survey Type C: Site Reconnaissance
3.3 Survey Type B: Detection
3.4 Survey Type A: Verification
SECTION 4 PROJECT PLANNING: INPUTS FROM THE CLIENT
SECTION 5 OUTPUTS FROM THE CONTRACTOR (DELIVERABLES)
SECTION 6 TIMESCALES
SECTION 7 ACCURACY & LIMIT OF LIABILITY
SECTION 8 TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT (TM)
SECTION 9 HEALTH AND SAFETY
SECTION 10 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
SECTION 11 TRAINING
SECTION 12 GLOSSARY OF WORDS, TERMS AND ACRONYMS ASSOCIATED
WITH UTILITY SURVEYS
SECTION 13 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND WEBSITES FOR FURTHER READING
2 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1A PAS 128 TABLE 1 SHOWING LEVELS OF SURVEY
APPENDIX 1B PAS 128 TABLE 2 SHOWING DETECTION METHODOLOGIES
APPENDIX 2 FLOW CHART WITH ADVICE TO CLIENTS FOR SPECIFYING A SURVEY
APPENDIX 3 SUGGESTED METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
APPENDIX 4 COLOUR CODES FOR BURIED UTILITY ASSETS, ON SITE MARK UP,
MARKER POST CODES AND DRAWING LINE TYPES
APPENDIX 5 EXAMPLES OF DRAWING OUTPUTS
APPENDIX 6 DETECTION CAPABILITIES OF DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES
AND GPR RESOLUTION
APPENDIX 7 COMMENTARY ON GPR DATA COLLECTION AND INTERPRETATION
FROM THE EUROGPR ASSOCIATION
APPENDIX 8 PROFESSIONAL INDEMNITY CONSIDERATIONS
APPENDIX 9 CONSULTEES AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
These guidance notes were compiled with due consideration for industry best practice
at the time of issue. Practitioners should always use their own professional training and
judgment when adopting any of the practices described in this document.
The Survey Association accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any claims
against practitioners arising as a result of any practices included in these guidance notes
or to those commissioning utility surveys.

1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 A brief history of these guidance notes academic bodies, who all have an interest in the
Preparation of the original document started development of standards within the industry.
in 2007 with the first issue in November 2009.
Wider consultation was sought within the
A number of revised versions have been
sector to ensure the final document reflects
released since, the most recent of these
best practice. As it is hosted on the TSA
in October 2011.
website, the guide can be revised to take
In 2012 work started at the British Standards account of new equipment, techniques,
Institution (BSI) on Publicly Available methodologies and thinking if required.
Specification (PAS) 128. Titled, ‘Specification
A list of consultees is attached in Appendix 9.
for underground utility detection, verification
and location’, the document was sponsored by There are deliberate repetitions of the text
the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the throughout so that each section is self-
wider utility survey industry. TSA fully supported contained, thus reducing the need for the
the production of this specification, providing reader to continually cross reference within
expertise on both the steering group and the document.
drafting panel. PAS128 was first published
in June 2014. 1.4 Definition
The term Utility Survey, following the
1.2 Objectives
terminology used in PAS128, refers to the
The prime objective of the original version detection, identification, verification and
of the TSA guidance note was to advise both location of buried pipes and cables.
clients and practitioners on how to carry out
utility surveys. However, there were significant Commonly used terms include: Service Tracing,
differences between PAS128 and the guidance Buried Services Survey, Underground Utility
given in the Essential Guide to Utility Surveys Survey, Underground Utility Mapping and Utility
available at that time. Most importantly PAS128 Detection Survey.
was written as a specification with which
Incorrect terminology includes: CAT scan,
practitioners should comply. Though PAS128
Radar survey, GPR or GPRS survey.
includes informative text, giving background
advice to the users of the document, there was These terms should not be used when
no guidance specifically aimed at clients who referring to a Utility Detection Survey.
wished to commission a PAS128 compliant
survey. It was agreed with the PAS steering
1.5 Benefits
committee that TSA should revise the Essential
Guide to Utility Surveys, aligning it with the PAS There are many benefits that come from
to provide appropriate client guidance. a well executed utility survey including:
• The safety of the workforce and public

1.3 Process
The revision of this document has been • Minimising utility damage
a collaborative effort by a broad range of
• Minimising project delays and reducing
practitioners, clients, equipment suppliers,
construction costs
consultants, professional institutions and

Electromagnetic detection, GPR and RTK GNSS surveying – three of the key elements of PAS128 Type B detection surveys
• Cost savings associated with accidents, survey. This requires experienced, well trained
damage and delays and suitably qualified staff.
• Understanding the constraints for designing When a client specifies a utility survey it is
and planning essential that the end requirement is fully
understood and explained to the survey
• Saving costs by producing as-built records practitioners tendering for the work. It is
important that there is no doubt about what
• Promoting good relationships between
is being purchased. PAS128 requires that the
client and surveyor.
client and practitioners engage in a pre-survey
meeting, either virtual or face to face, to ensure
1.6 What is involved in a PAS128
the survey and the chosen methodology will
compliant utility survey?
meet the client’s expectations.
The successful detection and mapping of
buried utilities involves the combination PAS128 requires that clients should define the
of several robust techniques. Results from survey type and the methodologies needed
each can be processed together to provide for the work. These are shown in Tables 1
the required deliverable data. and 2 in the PAS and with the kind permission
of BSI are reproduced here in Appendix
The precursor to all types of site based PAS128 1. Section 3 of this guide provides an
surveys is the procurement of a desktop utility overview of the PAS128 survey types and
records search or Type D survey (see Section 3). the methodologies that can be employed
during a detection survey. Compliance with
PAS128 requires that both electromagnetic
this requirement means quotations from
location (EML) and ground penetrating radar
practitioners should be based on the same
(GPR) have to be used in detection surveys.
criteria and are therefore comparable.
Other techniques, as appropriate, may be
deployed with the agreement of the client. NB It is worth noting that some practitioners
may not be prepared to access British
1.7 General considerations in procuring Telecom apparatus during their surveys.
a PAS128 utility survey This can generate a significant difference
A successful utility survey will rely on more in the prices quoted and more importantly
than just a methodical collection of data using the survey coverage provided. This needs to
the techniques discussed below. A holistic be ascertained at tender stage to ensure like
approach is needed to understand the networks for like quotations.
present within the survey area. Awareness
and recording of other indicators, such as
reinstatement scars, should be part of the

1.8 Limitations/Expectations/ consideration. Larger fibre optic cables
Misconceptions are likely to have metal sheathing making
There is a perception that all buried pipes, them detectable with both EML and GPR
cables and ducts can be detected and mapped, (see Section 2). Unsheathed cables laid within
irrespective of their size, duty, depth, location, a duct should be detectable with GPR but not
material type, geology and proximity to other with EML, unless access to the duct is possible
utilities. This is not the case, and the factors with a tracer cable. Small diameter fibre optic
listed above can limit the effectiveness of cables laid directly into the ground are unlikely
detection techniques in ways that are beyond to be detectable.
the practitioners’ control. A well designed
With the exception of the recording of a
and executed survey should be able to detect
general condition of inspection chambers
around 80% to 95% of utilities but it may not be
during visual inspection, a utility survey is
possible to achieve a 100% detection rate.
not a condition survey. However, the use of
Most utility surveys are commissioned to CCTV within gravity drainage systems, or any
map utility service mains rather than service accessible pipes and ducts, as an addition to
connections to properties (see Section 12). the survey, can provide useful information on
If service connections to properties are to the structural condition of the pipes. Similarly,
be included in the scope of a survey, then trial excavations (Survey Type A), to verify
this should be made clear at the tendering the results of a utility survey can also provide
stage (see Section 4). Service connections to additional information, for example on the
individual properties can be difficult to detect – extent of corrosion of metallic pipes.
particularly small diameter plastic gas and water
pipes, or directly laid fibre optic cables. If these 1.9 Survey intensity and the
services are to be included in the scope of work ‘Law of diminishing returns’
then it should be made clear at the tendering To achieve the higher percentage detection
stage as it may affect the survey methodology rates in the complex environments discussed
to be employed. See 1.10 below on how above, the survey should be carried out with
detection depths and pipe sizes are related. close-centered search transects with both
techniques as shown in Appendix 1. If the
Due to the high cost associated with damage
survey area is large then the total cost of such
to fibre optic cables, it is worth noting that the
a survey will be high. Consideration should
detectability of this type of utility requires due
GPR Survey being carried out on a 1m orthogonal grid – the white markers indicate the positions of survey lines.
Two sets of lines, positioned at right angles to each other, make up the grid.

therefore be given to targeted sampling. a utility will reduce in diameter by 1mm for
Such sampling will involve varying levels and each 10mm of depth. i.e. a 200mm pipe can be
intensity of survey for different areas within a detected at 2m and a 50mm pipe at 0.5m but
survey site. For example, on a school site, it a 25mm plastic water service pipe to a house
would be prudent to have a high level of survey cannot be detected at 1.2m with radar’.
(see Methodology M3 & M4 in Appendix 1)
around the buildings and access road but a Where successful depths are detected, these
lower level of survey may be justifiable over the will be clearly identified on the survey data. If
playing fields, particularly if the records search there is a failure to provide depth information
suggests no utilities are present within the due to technical restrictions then the survey
playing fields (see Methodology M1 & M2 practitioner should explain this.
in Appendix 1).
1.11 What one should look for in a utility
A search of utility company records (Survey survey contractor
Type D) is a mandatory part of the due
It is the client’s responsibility to ensure their
diligence and is a pre-requisite for all other
chosen contractor is competent to carry out
PAS128 survey types. This search will help
the task required. If the survey contractor
identify high risk areas (for example, where
is a member of a recognised institution or
complex, high densities of utilities are apparent)
trade association such as, RICS, CICES, TSA
so that the most appropriate methodology
or the European GPR Association then a
(Appendix 1b – PAS128 Table 2) can be
clear commitment to quality can be seen
instructed for each area. Areas of ‘new build’
to have been made and provides the client
would normally also require a high level
with recourse should the work fall short of
of survey.
professional standards. There are a number
of factors which can be considered when
1.10 Depth ranges and determination selecting a suitable contractor. Check that
Depths can be determined using both the contractor has:
Electromagnetic Locators (EML) and Ground
Penetrating Radar (GPR) equipment. Both • Accreditation from an organisation such
methodologies should be used to determine as, The Contractors Health and Safety
the position and depth of all utilities wherever Assessment Scheme (CHAS), Construction
possible. Technical limitations of both Line, Achilles, Safe Contractor and Builders
methodologies mean that the depth accuracy Profile. (TSA is currently exploring setting
between the two may vary. An experienced up a dedicated accreditation scheme for
operator will be able to determine which PAS128 utility survey practitioners through
is likely to be more accurate. Lloyds Register)
The attached tables (see Appendix 6) are • An understanding of utility drawings

an approximate appraisal of the capability
• An understanding of legal requirements
of depth range, depth determination and
minimum size of utility that can be detected. • An understanding of ethical and contractual
Much will depend on site conditions and the obligations
equipment used. The table for the vertical
resolution of GPR in different materials for • A suitable level of public and employer’s
various antenna frequencies shows theoretical liability insurance and professional
values and needs to be qualified with, amongst indemnity (PI) cover
other things, considerations of dielectric
• Suitably trained staff. (see Section 11)
contrast between the soil and its moisture
content and the utility. • Demonstrated experience of satisfactorily
carrying out similar types of projects and
The American Society of Civil Engineers in
can provide references.
their ‘Standard Guidance for the collection and
depiction of existing subsurface utility data’ A list of survey companies is available on
has a useful principle for GPR which can be the TSA website: http://www.tsa-uk.org.uk/
summarised in metric values as: memberlist.php
‘In good ground conditions and within the
depth range of two metres the ability to detect

2 EQUIPMENT
AND TECHNIQUES
When carrying out a utility survey a In ideal conditions the depths obtained by EML
combination of EML and GPR equipment must are to the vertical centre line of the utility being
be used as a minimum, in order to comply with measured. It is important to note that signal
the PAS128 specification. This equipment can distortion can affect the accuracy of depth
be deployed in various ways and a number of measurement. Depth measurements obtained
techniques involving other types of equipment when in ‘power’ mode are generally recognised
can also be part of a utility survey. as being less reliable. If utilities are located
using passive modes, it is better to obtain
Equipment should be regularly calibrated and depth readings by using induction and confirm
serviced and always used in accordance with using GPR.
the manufacturer’s procedure and instructions
for use. The user should be trained and
competent with a full understanding of the
capabilities and limitations of the equipment
(see Section 11).
2.1 Electromagnetic Location (EML)

This is one of the two technologies that are
mandatory when carrying out a PAS128 utility
mapping survey. Comprising a transmitter and
a receiver, the technology has two primary
function modes, active and passive.
Within these two modes are various methods

of deployment, and each aids in the detection
and identification of underground utilities.
These deployment methods, if used in a logical
order, will generally provide a reliable picture
of the utility networks within a search area, with
An electromagnetic cable location tool can detect metallic pipes
the exception of inaccessible plastic pipes. and cables, tracer lines and signal emitting sondes
NB Reliability and achievable accuracies using 2.1.1 Direct connection

EML can be affected in densely populated The direct connection methodology involves
utility networks via interference from other the transmitter being attached to an exposed
sources, such as high voltage substations, metallic object (forming part of the utility or
reinforced concrete and difficult ground the utility itself). The transmitter is earthed via a
conditions. Above all, as with the other separate connection. In an attempt to complete
technologies required to perform a reliable the circuit, detectable signals are drawn along
utility survey, the skill and experience of the the utility. This effectively “lights up” the utility
operator is the key to obtaining the most in question and a receiver unit can then be
from this technology. used to detect and mark the utility along the
ground surface.
The main methods of deployment are
described below. Depth measurements are The further away, at right angles, the earth
possible with all methods, except radio mode. point is from the main signal connection

An example of direct connection to cables using a transmitter and signal clamp
point, the greater the traceable distance on effectively “lit up” as described previously.
the utility will be. Experience in operating the The receiver system is then used to trace and
systems is essential as the signal may jump to mark its position on the surface of the ground.
a more conductive object, giving a potentially
false location of the utility being traced. An This methodology allows the tracing of
experienced operator would normally be able accessible non-metallic utilities down to an
to isolate these situations and ensure that the approximate depth of around 2m. It must be
line marked corresponds to the targeted pipe stressed that detection depths are affected
being traced. by the interference caused by other nearby
underground infrastructure and adverse
The direct connection methodology is ground conditions.
fundamental in any site based utility search,
as it lets the operator identify and trace NB Tracer cables cannot be detected from
different utilities in sequence. within a metallic pipe.
NB The more sophisticated electromagnetic 2.1.3 Sonde

location equipment has modes that can identify
The Sonde is a transmitter which is attached to
when signals have jumped. These techniques
the end of a flexible rod and threaded along
should be used as standard in any utility
a pipe or duct. Periodically the Sonde is left
detection methodology and this is a good
stationary, within the pipe or duct, and its
reason to check that the equipment being used
position located and marked on the ground
is of a standard that includes these capabilities,
surface using a receiver. The result is a series
rather than more basic cable avoidance tools.
of marks along the ground that can be joined
to represent the position of the pipe being
2.1.2 Tracer Cable traced. Sondes are available in many different
This method of application is virtually the same sizes. They are especially useful in providing
as described above, but instead of connecting positional information for deeper ducts or
to a utility, the transmitter is connected to drainage pipes. Allowance must be made when
the end of a conductive cable. Prior to this tracing large diameter pipes for the ability of
connection being made, the conductive cable is the Sonde to move sideways and vertically
threaded along an accessible duct or drainage within the pipe.
pipe to the required distance. The transmitter
is then connected and the tracer cable is NB Most sondes cannot be detected from

within a metal pipe. There are some low- Inductive searches, carried out by two people,
frequency sondes available that can be used (also known as parallel sweeps) is a useful
to locate cast iron pipes but they do not work technique for detecting unknown signals and
in ductile iron or steel pipes. should be included in any standard detection
methodology. Induction should be employed
2.1.4 Clamp following the Direct Connection, Tracer Cable,
Sonde and Clamp methods so that the utilities
Another essential method of deployment is
already detected can be discounted from
the clamp system. A clamp is placed around
the search.
a visible utility and connected to the
transmitter unit. The clamp “induces” a
detectable signal through the utility so the 2.1.6 Passive
receiver is able to detect the utility’s position Passive detection is usually the last EML
from the surface. The tracing and clamping of technique used as part of a utility survey.
some types of electrical cables (EHV/HV/LV) It has two modes – ‘Power’ and ‘Radio’.
is a specialist application and should only be
undertaken by competent personnel with the In Power mode, the receiver can detect the
appropriate training. presence of utilities by picking up the electro-
magnetic fields surrounding them. The receiver
is deployed in a gridded survey to traverse
2.1.5 Induction
the search area, looking for signs of utilities
Using this method the transmitter is placed that have been missed using the previous
at strategic locations around the site, whilst active methods of deployment. Once a signal
emitting signals directly down into the ground. is detected the utility concerned can be
These signals can be of various frequencies and followed through the area. It should be noted
they will travel along the nearest conductors that metallic water and gas pipes can often be
which will normally be metallic pipes or cables. mistaken for active power cables and with some
detection devices will appear to be the same.
A misidentification could have serious

consequences so it is essential that a proven
methodology is employed by an experienced
practitioner to limit the possibility of error.
One such way of avoiding this situation is to
have previously traced all the metallic water
pipes by the direct connection method, thus
allowing them to be confirmed during the
passive search.
NB As more water and gas pipes are being

replaced by plastic pipes the methods of direct
An electromagnetic signal transmitter and receiver being used in connection are becoming less effective for
Induction mode to detect conductive utilities
tracing water and gas services.
The receiver is then used to “circle” the
transmitter, (at a suitable distance to prevent It should also be noted that whilst the passive
airborne feedback), to detect any metallic methodology will detect most live power
utilities that pass through the area. This method cables, it will tend to indicate the position
is also useful when a direct connection trace of the highest energy emitter. In other words,
has faded due to a break or weakness in the the surveyor may end up tracing a single
conductor. The transmitter can be placed line that represents the “left-hand side” of a
directly over the last reliable position to induce twenty-way bank of power cable ducts! A well
a signal into the utility. Often the utility in balanced high voltage cable will generate
question can be detected over a great distance only a small electro-magnetic field so caution
by repeating this method every time the signal is needed when working with such power
fades. However, if the operator lacks skill in distribution systems. Similarly, live pot-ended
the use of this technology there is a risk of cables are not detectable in power mode.
following a completely different utility than that
Radio mode allows the receiver to pick up very
targeted, as induction can favour utilities that
low frequency radio signals that are re–radiated
are better conductors.

from conductors within the ground, namely 2.2 Ground penetrating (or probing)
metallic pipes or cables. Using the same system radar (GPR)
of work described previously, buried metallic
utilities can be detected, and marked in the 2.2.1 GPR technology
same way. The length of a buried conductor NB It is a legal requirement that any survey
needs to be at least 10m long in order for this company using GPR holds a valid license from
technique to work. OFCOM for work within the UK. An OFCOM
license requires a log of the location, date and
NB The effectiveness of ‘radio’ mode is related antenna frequency of all GPR surveys to be kept
to the intensity of atmospheric VLF signals. and made available for inspection if required.
These signals vary in strength on a daily or
even hourly basis. It is quite possible that a GPR is the second mandatory technology
utility that is easy to detect on one day using for PAS128 surveys that must be used in
this technique might be much harder to find conjunction with EML when carrying out a
on another day, if there has been a decrease utility survey. As GPR does not directly connect
in VLF intensity. to underground infrastructure it does not by
itself identify utilities. Consequently, it must
2.1.7 Frequencies be used in conjunction with above ground
infrastructure, utility records and EML to
Most of the EML systems available offer the
positively identify utilities.
user multiple frequency options to use in
detecting utilities. An experienced practitioner GPR uses an antenna that transmits pulses of
will know which frequency ranges will suit the electromagnetic energy into the ground. The
given application best but it is essential that energy can penetrate through ground materials
both the transmitter and receivers are using but some of it gets scattered back to the GPR
the same settings. It is also worth noting antenna when it encounters any change in
that only certain frequencies on certain makes ground materials. The intensity of the reflected
of EML systems are approved for use in energy, and how long it takes to travel from
sensitive locations. antenna to ground and back is plotted into a
radargram as the GPR antenna is pushed along
This shows a selection of the vast range of electromagnetic cable detectors available to buy on the open market. Whilst they all operate on similar
basic principles, each type of equipment tends to have specific individual characteristics and capabilities.

Single channel and multi channel GPR systems in operation
the ground. The presence of buried utilities, using GPR provides an approximate accuracy of
amongst other things, can be identified from +/ – 10% i.e. the actual depth can vary by up to
features shown in the radargram. +/-10% of the detected measurement. It should
be noted that the depth provided is to the top
Some simple GPR equipment only has real- of the utility or feature. This accuracy depends
time capability to image the sub-surface. As upon calibrating the instrument using targets
with many EML instruments, no digital record of known depths, for example, in areas close to
is captured and any features identified have to inspection chambers where the presence and
be marked out on the ground by the operator depths of utilities have already been verified.
as they are found. These simple systems have
generally been superseded in recent times The use of different frequencies can be
by GPR systems capable of storing data and summarised as:
which use wideband signal processing or
dual frequency antennae to achieve higher Low frequency = greater depth, larger target
resolutions and better depth penetration. detection only, lower resolution.
Most of these newer instruments are also
High Frequency = shallow depth, smaller target
compatible with GPS/GNSS for real-time
detection capability, higher resolution.
precise location of survey transects.
It is important to be sure that the survey
By picking up contrasts and changes in ground
contractor has appropriate GPR experience.
conditions and materials, GPR can often help
Membership of the European GPR Association
locate non-metallic utilities that cannot be
(www.eurogpr.org) indicates the practitioner
detected using EML techniques. Another
has signed up to an agreed code of practice,
advantage of using GPR is that it can operate
adheres to professional standards and provides
in areas with high ambient background noise,
a recourse for complaints. TSA also approve
such as electric sub-stations or within buildings.
GPR training courses by various providers with
The use of low frequency GPR can also be
details available on the TSA website.
effective in detecting larger utilities, where
made ground has increased the depth of burial Radar systems can be divided into six
beyond the normal range of EML, if ground categories as shown in the table below.
conditions are favourable. A very approximate indication of relative cost
of the equipment is given by the number of ‘£’
GPR requires good ground contact, and
signs. Each has advantages and disadvantages
therefore may be unsuitable for use on
as outlined in brief below.
rough terrain or on densely vegetated
sites. GPR operates best over dry, sandy
Single Multi
soils and least well on wet, clay rich soils, frequency frequency
as depth penetration is significantly reduced
in clays or other conductive soils. It performs Single scan £ ££
well when surveying concrete but as GPR line (per pass)
cannot penetrate metal, the presence of Multi scan lines £££ £££
reinforcement within concrete can significantly (per pass)
hinder the technique.
High density ££££ £££££
It is generally held that depth measurement arrays

2.2.2 Single Scan line, single frequency processing and analysis in an
These systems are the lowest in cost and are office environment.
usually the easiest to learn and operate. Older
versions of these systems do not record the 2.2.5 High density array systems (single
data and can only be used for onsite mark out. or multiple frequency)
These systems can collect high density sampled
NB These older systems, with no recording
data sets over large areas, in a relatively short
facilities are now considered ‘old technology’
time. They are usually towed or mounted on
and should not be in general use by companies
a vehicle. These systems are most beneficial
offering PAS128 compliant surveys.
over wide open spaces or within carriageways.
They are compact and are therefore easily Due to their size they will often be supported
transported to site, quickly set up and can by smaller systems if an entire area is to be
access restrictive areas. comprehensively mapped. They are available as
single frequency or multiple frequency systems.
If this type of system does allow the recording These systems collect close-centred multiple
of data they can be used to collect close- scan lines with frequency ranges from 100MHz
centered transects, allowing a full 3D matrix to to 2GHz. Some systems allow arrays of different
be compiled in the same way as multichannel frequencies to be pre-selected prior to the
systems, but this can require a considerable survey being carried out.
amount of off-site data processing time which
increases cost. Different frequency antennae The data collected can be positioned using
can be selected for some single channel either GPS in real-time by on-board software
systems so that deeper searches can be carried or by tracking with a total station. These
out or higher resolution shallow searches, as systems can record many linear kilometres per
needed. Selection of the correct frequency day and by methodology and economy of
would be up to the operator unless it can be scale can provide many savings on associated
safely predetermined within the survey brief. traffic management and project time, as well
as enhancing site health and safety as the
need for a pedestrian workforce is removed.
2.2.3 Single scan line systems, using multiple
Achieving high speed data collection, while
or wideband frequencies
more expensive per day, can ultimately prove
These systems are similar to the single channel cheaper than conventional systems due to the
single frequency systems but have either two reduced time required on site.
complementary frequencies or wide band
frequencies offering both greater penetration High density GPR arrays offer enhanced
and improved resolution. Some dual frequency capabilities with the advantage of only needing
systems allow the merging of the two data sets to collect scan lines in one direction due to bi-
into one display which allows an overview of directional (orthogonally) mounted antennae.
both data sets while out on site. However, it is Multi-array systems collect data that has to
still important to refer back to the separate data be post-processed. The close spacing of
sets to ensure the merging has not altered or the antennae within an array result in highly
obscured anomalies. detailed datasets, which can be interpreted
to provide high resolution 3D models of the
2.2.4 Multi-scan line with either single or subsurface. The large size of these datasets
multi-frequency systems does require significant computing power
and processing time.
These systems have the ability to collect
swathes of data in one pass. Systems are
available that allow up to eight channels to be 2.3 GPR methodologies
collected at around 0.3m centres, providing a The main methods of deployment are: on-site
high density data set. Both lower and higher data analysis, interpretation and mark out and
frequencies can be collected at the same time, office analysis and interpretation, involving
maximising both depth and resolution in the post-processing. These are outlined in more
acquired data set. The equipment is higher in detail below. PAS 128 provides options for
cost and generally larger in size, making them either carrying out GPR interpretation on site
less manoeuvrable on site. Collecting complex without recording the data or for recording the
data sets means that results cannot be achieved data for later processing and interpretation. It is
easily on site and data normally needs post- also possible to carry out GPR on-site analysis

Examples of high density GPR Array systems. These systems are usually vehicle mounted but there are now also smaller,
cart mounted systems available
whilst recording data, in case of need at a deployed on a survey grid, but can be surveyed
later date. If the data is recorded it provides in one direction only, as the close proximity of
an audit trail and an opportunity for future the antennae within the array results in a 3D
reinterpretation should it be required. dataset. Care should be exercised to ensure
that each pass with the array is adjacent to the
The PAS128 specification requires GPR systems last and that no gaps are left between survey
to be deployed on survey grids, except for the transects, or conversely that there is too much
most basic methodology (M1 – see Appendix overlap between transects.
1) where targeted scan lines can be used.
When a survey grid is used, GPR scan lines NB A commentary on GPR methodologies
are collected in two directions, at 90° to each provided by the European GPR Association
other (orthogonal transects). This is in order is included in Appendix 7).
to ensure target utilities are crossed by the
survey transects, whatever their alignment. The 2.3.1 On-site data analysis, interpretation
survey is interpreted using on-site mark up or and markout
can be recorded for later post-processing and
This method relies heavily on the competency
interpretation off-site.
of the operator, supplemented, where available,
If a post-processing methodology is employed with suitable on-board software. It involves the
the survey grids need to be accurately radar being deployed over a given area. The
constructed and mapped so that detected survey area should be scanned systematically
features found during post-processing can be on a grid spacing specified by the client (see
correctly located onto the final survey drawing. methodology table in Appendix 1). The radar
The use of post-processing methods arguably will show the position of anomalies within the
increases the detection rate of GPR surveys data which the user needs to identify.
and therefore the quality, interpretation and
For example, utilities such as pipes, ducts or
evaluation of data, but can require considerably
large diameter cables, if crossed at or near
more time in the office.
a right angle, usually give a response in the
A high density array does not need to be radargram in the form of a hyperbola (known

as a diffraction). If, when marked out on the environment for analysis. This involves post-
ground, the detected diffractions form a line processing both the 2D (vertical scans) and
then the user is able to interpret this as a the 3D coordinate data allowing complicated
linear feature. The lines of detected features underground environments to be more
are marked out and then recorded using accurately understood.
topographical survey techniques. When these
lines correspond to features detected during From this analysis, linear patterns can be
the EML survey a higher level of confidence exported into CAD where they can be
can be assigned to the final survey results, recognised as the routes of possible utilities.
and indicated in the final deliverables. Both line and depth are determined from
Other classes of data anomaly can indicate the radar data but not its use. This has to be
the presence of other sub-surface features, determined where possible from other data,
such as voids or building foundations. such as record drawings or surface features
and EML results. Although this method allows
data to be collected by an operator who does
2.3.2 Data collection with off-site analysis and
not need to be competent at interpretation
interpretation involving post-processing
it is important that the person responsible
Here the data is collected in a systematic for processing and interpretation of the final
manner over the designated survey area, dataset is not only competent at these skills
again at the grid spacing required by the but also has a good understanding of the
client. The coordinates for the start and survey environment. Surface features, ground
finish of each transect are recorded along conditions and the surrounding environment
with the radargram itself. It is also possible can have an important impact on the quality
to use GPR systematically with simultaneous and content of GPR data and not being aware
recording of GPS, particularly useful where of these factors can result in incorrect or
the above ground environment contains a incomplete interpretations.
number of obstacles which might otherwise
impede systematic data collection. When high Some service providers offer on-site analysis
buildings obscure line of sight to GPS satellites, and interpretation within the survey vehicle to
positioning using robotic total stations can be help speed up the turnaround of reporting. This
an alternative. may not be practical or feasible for sites with
large amounts of data.
The collected data is transferred to an office
Examples of GPR Data. Top: Vertical sections showing utilities as hyperbolic shaped anomalies. Bottom: multichannel array data with interpretation.

2.4 Other detection techniques f. Infrared (thermal imaging)
There are a number of other techniques which
Changes in heat radiated from the ground
can be used to detect buried utilities. These
can indicate the route of utility apparatus
vary in cost and effectiveness and may only be
by detecting trench features, or even heat
applicable in limited special circumstances. It
radiated from pipes used to transport fluids.
is not felt necessary to go into these in great
This technique can also be used to indicate
detail here as they are not commonly used in
faults along electrical cables.
utility surveying but it is useful to be aware of
the existence of other techniques and some g. Seismics/ Acoustic
are listed below:
Traditionally, this is used for geological
a. Gyroscopic based pipe location logging applications, but there are some pipe
detectors that use seismic (acoustic) techniques
For pipes and ducts that cannot be detected
to locate the route. Other methods also exist
using EML or GPR because they are too deep
that introduce a regular noise into a pipe
or other ground conditions prevent these
(usually water or liquid gas) at a connection
techniques being successful. Clear access
point (e.g. a valve) which then allows the
is required with precise coordinates of the
pipe to be traced from the surface using
start and end points. The instrument uses
a stethoscope or similar instrument.
gyroscopes to accurately calculate its position
as it passes along the pipe. h. Optical (laser)
b. Magnetics More often used by total stations for measuring

distance, there are some optical pipe-based
Total field magnetometers and gradiometer
systems that can scan pipes or tunnels and
systems can be used to locate metallic
identify deformation and defects. As they
pipes and cables or utilities which have an
become smaller and more portable traditional
electromagnetic field present. Sensitive
laser scanners are being used more often for
magnetic instruments may also be able to
surveying underground pipes and sewers.
detect the magnetic components of fired clay
pipes, as might be used in field drainage, or i. Microgravity
detect disturbances in ground conditions that
result from utility trenches. This technique measures small fluctuations
in the earth’s gravitational field that indicate
c. Ground conductivity changes in the density of the earth’s subsurface.
It can be used to locate voids such as those
Changes in ground conductivity can indicate
found in underground sewers, culverts or
the presence of utility features or trenches for
tunnels. The technique is extremely sensitive to
utilities, as well as other sub-surface features.
vibration and therefore it must be used during
These instruments are generally portable
quiet periods as environmental contamination
and hand-held. They do not require ground
arising from site traffic, nearby roads and piling
contact so can provide an alternative to ground
operations can lead to bad data. The data also
penetrating radar where ground conditions are
requires complex mathematical modelling to
not suitable.
simulate the effects of the nearby environment
d. Earth resistance and requires highly accurate digital terrain
models of the surrounding site/landscape,
This technique measures the ease with which therefore this technique is usually expensive
current can flow through the ground. It is and time consuming to deploy.
popular in archaeological surveys due to its
ability to locate features such as ditches and j. Drain tracing dye
walls, but the method can also be used to
Introducing dye into the flow of fluid in a pipe
detect modern features such as utility trenches,
allows the flow route and pipe connectivity to
underground culverts and buried chambers.
be traced downstream of the point where it is
e. Metal detectors introduced. This must be planned meticulously
to ensure that the lengths of pipe required are
Their main application within utility detection not contaminated by dye introduced into other
surveys is to locate buried manhole covers, but upstream pipes.
they can also be used to detect pipes or cables
in some specific situations.

2.5 Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) c. In-line GPR
The use of CCTV is a well-established
Has the advantage of being able to penetrate
technique used to assess both the structural
the walls of a pipe/large diameter duct to
and service conditions of gravity drainage
ascertain the structure thickness and has the
systems and ducts. Used in conjunction with
potential to identify voids. Requires sufficient
a utility survey it can provide useful additional
space to be able to be driven through by
information on diameter, line, pipe defects
remote controlled tractor (similar to CCTV) or
and construction material that geophysical
progressed through the pipe using different
techniques alone would not provide.
methods, such as on a cable or rod. The GPR
The provision of a simple camera on a push rod antenna must be in direct contact with the pipe
system as a supplement to utility mapping can surface to obtain good data. Usually deployed
help determine the reason for Sonding surveys as part of a confined-space entry survey.
(see 2.1 above) being prematurely terminated,
as it identifies pipe blockages or collapse. This 2.7 Methods of Location
will help in planned maintenance of the system The most accurate and practical methods
rather than just reporting an ‘end of trace’ of locating survey grids and the results
(EOT) on the drawing. of detection should always be chosen. It
is essential that everything is thoroughly
traced and that all detected utilities are
topographically located to a common survey
grid. For PAS128 surveys, results should be
located to OS coordinates unless an alternative
grid system has been specified (see chapter 10:
Location in PAS128).
Real time kinetic (RTK) GPS/GNSS systems

providing centimetre level accuracy for
positioning of utility routes are available.
The use of GPS can be restricted in urban
environments and may not be able to satisfy
Pushrod CCTV systems can be extremely portable and used even in the requirements of the survey specification
remote locations inaccessible to vehicles for hard detail. This is due both to the difficulty
2.6 Other in-pipe techniques of using GPS/GNSS around buildings and also
because vertical accuracies are less good using
Other in-pipe techniques include:
GPS/GNSS. When surveying hard detail this
a. Sonar (for beneath water line profiling) lack of vertical definition can be problematic,
and therefore standard surveying and levelling
Requires adequate depth of water and techniques, utilising survey control networks
sufficient space to allow it to float through the measured by a total station, may need to be
pipe/duct either by towing on a threaded line used when recording utility positions.
or driving through by remote controlled tractor
(similar to CCTV). Can be combined with CCTV Where topographical detail is collected, it
pan and tilt camera to provide above and should be surveyed in accordance with the
below water survey information. relevant RICS guidance documents such as
Measured Surveys of Land, Buildings and
b. In-line ultrasonic Utilities, 3rd Ed. and Guidelines for the Use of
GNSS in Land Surveying and Mapping, 2nd Ed.
Has the advantage of being able to penetrate
the walls of a pipe/large diameter duct to Where the use of surveying instruments such
ascertain structure and thickness and has the as total stations or GPS/GNSS is restricted due
potential to identify voids. Requires sufficient to lack of satellite coverage or line of sight, it is
space to be able to be driven through by acceptable to use measuring tapes or electronic
remote controlled tractor (similar to CCTV) and distance measuring tools to record small areas,
the ultrasonic head must be in direct contact referenced to known detail. This type of infill
with the internal pipe wall via a gel applied to survey should only be used for small areas
the wall or through the liquid in the pipe. (≤100m2) and only used as a last resort.

3 LEVELS OF SURVEY
The PAS128 specification for underground in one spot, a Type A survey may suffice.
utility detection, verification and location Different areas of the site may require different
identifies four different Survey Types. They are survey types and methodologies dependent
set out in a hierarchical order as shown in the on terrain, expected utility density and project
table below. requirements. This should be determined
by the client, prior to quotation stage, but
A Type D survey is a prerequisite for any practitioners with experience in using the
of the other survey types and should be PAS128 specification should be able to assist
commissioned at the start of the process as in determining what is required and how best
the results of this inform the survey strategies to deploy the survey.
required to achieve the overall project
objectives. A desktop records search offers The results of each survey type are recorded
the lowest confidence in position, but can within the final deliverable as a quality level
cover large areas at a relatively low cost. associated with the way the position of the
utilities were ascertained. A desktop survey
Type A verification surveys provide the highest provides results with a Quality Level D for
certainty as utilities will have been proven to example, and utilities proven to exist via a
exist by visual inspection. The practicalities verification survey are awarded a Quality Level
and costs of excavation mean that they cannot A (highest confidence). The quality levels
generally be used across a whole site but awarded during a detection survey (Type B)
must be targeted at specific areas of concern are further broken down into four categories
or interest. (B1– B4), based upon how the utility was
located using geophysical techniques (see
Following the desktop records search a utility
Section 3.3). A further enhancement in
mapping project might use different survey
the quality level can be provided by post-
types in various parts of the project area,
processing the GPR data as described in
depending upon the levels of confidence
Section 2.3.2 above. This is shown in the
required in the final results. It is not essential
deliverable by the addition of the suffix ‘P’.
to complete all levels of survey as the individual
project may not require this. For example, The table given in Appendix 1 shows the survey
the project may not require a Type C survey types, their quality levels and the associated
if a Type B survey is being carried out as accuracies arising from the method of location.
this will inevitably cover the detection and Appendices 4 and 5 show how results of these
realignment of record information to existing surveys can be presented on drawings.
street furniture. Similarly, if the project merely
requires confirmation of the position of utilities
Survey Name (and scope) Confidence in Position
Survey Type D Desktop Records Search Low
Survey Type C Site Reconnaissance Low-Med
Survey Type B Detection survey Med-High
Survey Type A Veriﬁcation survey High (absolute position)

3.1 Survey Type D: Desktop Utilities Turnaround time Average
Record Search. – working days response rate
PAS128 defines a desktop utilities record 1 65-70%
search as the collection of the records available
from all the “known” utility asset owners in 5 70-75%
the survey area. As a result of deregulation
and increased competition there can be up to 10 80%
sixty different utility asset owners in the vicinity 20 90-93%
of any particular scheme and it is difficult to
“know” exactly what may be present in any
particular area. Best practice dictates that all Advice, Uses and Objectives
utility asset owners that may have plant in an It is difficult to ensure that all “known”
area should be contacted. In some cases the utilities in an area are checked thoroughly.
comparative rare occurrence of certain utilities Utility companies, highways authorities and
in most areas, balanced against the search government records vary massively in quality
fees the asset owners request to release their as the number of regulated street work
data, may mean that some utility providers are undertakers has burgeoned since the mid-
excluded from initial searches. nineties. It is poor practice to limit a search to
just the five main utilities or to a client’s limited
The client needs to be aware that not knowledge of a particular area, and such an
undertaking a full search will introduce risk approach would not satisfy the requirements of
and potential costs further down the line. a Survey Type D unless it is known that no other
This may be mitigated against by employing utilities are present.
additional types of survey.
Whilst record plans from utility asset owners
The table (right) shows the expected response are the most common focus of a utility records
rate from asset owners from the time that search, it is important to remember that these
an enquiry is first made. To satisfy the are often not the only plans available that show
requirements of a Survey Type D the survey utilities that might exist on a site. On large sites
practitioner needs to make all reasonably under private ownership, especially sites like
practicable efforts to obtain records from hospitals, factories, and government or MoD
known and suspected asset owners, and allow facilities, estate plans, as-built records, private
a suitable time period to obtain the records. drainage records and site-specific utility plans
The client and practitioner should assess the might be available that can also contribute
risk and satisfy themselves that they have valuable information.
sufficient information before proceeding to
the next level.
A PAS128 Type D desktop survey involves the collation of records from all utility asset owners that have plant in the survey area.

A desktop records search can guide the may also lead to increased costs, especially on
client, commissioner and practitioner to the large schemes. It is also usual for a summary
more important areas of a site to ensure that of survey results to be compiled for ease of
more expensive type C, B or A surveys are reference and to provide an audit trail for the
used most effectively in the utility discovery validity of the plans contained in any report.
project lifecycle. In order to understand
the limitations of a desktop records search PAS128 specifies that the validity period for
one needs to be reminded that in terms of a desktop records search report should
history, and especially since the Second World be ninety days, and it should thereafter
War, the amount, accuracy and quality of be regarded as historical data. Historical
infrastructure that is recorded on plans can vary information from sources other than utility
considerably. Following procurement of a Type asset owners can be of benefit to any survey
D records search, the client, scheme promoter / and should not be disregarded.
commissioner and survey practitioner should be
All information obtained solely through a
mindful of the requirement for adequate utility
desktop records search is awarded a Quality
discovery in the New Roads & Streetworks Act,
Level D, which is the lowest confidence level.
HSG 47 and ensure that they procure adequate
This reflects the fact that record plans are often
Type C, B or A surveys that are appropriate to
out of date, incomplete and inaccurate. It is
their scheme.
also important to note that the client has a duty
The earlier in a project lifecycle that a client of care to communicate any information on
or scheme promoter employs a survey subsurface features that they are aware of, to
practitioner, the better the likelihood that the inform subsequent service types (clients’ duties
above objectives will be achieved. under CDM).
For details on deliverables please see

Timeframes and Quality Section 5.
The National Joint Utilities Group (NJUG)
require their members to respond to requests 3.2 Survey Type C: Site Reconnaissance.
for utility information within ten working days
A site reconnaissance survey comprises a site
and most of its members achieve this. However,
visit to check the information contained on
some are more efficient than others and some
utility plans obtained through a desktop search.
statutory undertakers are not members of
A walkover survey is undertaken to correlate
NJUG. It is good practice to allow at least
the detail shown on utility plans with visible
twenty working days for the completion of
site features, such as inspection covers, service
a full desktop records search.
valves, utility marker posts, street furniture
Allowing ten working days can often provide and surface scarring. A Type D survey is a
sufficient time for record returns, although on prerequisite to undertaking a Type C survey.
occasions for site or survey works one or two
responses from undertakers may take longer. Advice, Uses and Objectives
Some practitioners claim to provide faster A site reconnaissance survey can add extra
services, but in practice the completeness of value to the results of a desktop records search,
the records can vary and will depend on where and is particularly useful on large projects
in the country the site is situated, and on how so that a proper assessment can be made of
many utility companies need to be contacted. where utility record data is deficient or where
It is hoped that with improving technology areas of complexity or greater uncertainty exist.
response times will increase in the future. These areas may then be targeted using a Type
B or Type A survey.
When procuring a desktop records search
consideration should be given to ensuring During the walkover of the site the results
that plans are provided at a scale appropriate of the desktop survey are consulted and
to the development scheme. If specific scales measurements taken to annotate plans to
are required, this should be discussed at the provide a better estimate of the utility location.
start of the process so that the practitioner can Photographs will document key areas and
make their best efforts to obtain these from features such as road reinstatement scarring,
the utility asset owner, although asset owners areas where the on-site arrangement appears
are not necessarily required to provide plans at to differ from that on plans, utility features that
the scale requested. Requesting specific scales are not documented on records and any other

A type C survey is essentially a site visit to check the veracity of records and identify new information or obvious utility features
pertinent information. It should be noted that days whilst these records are obtained.
a Type C survey will not generally involve the Other factors may include the workload of the
lifting of any inspection covers. practitioner, the size and nature of a site, (large
sites may take days to survey properly even
A site reconnaissance survey may be all that without the use of detection methods), and the
is required if the aim is to establish where nature of the deliverables requested, as well as
likely conflicts exist with the position of certain the weather at the time of the survey. Certain
utilities in relation to a proposed scheme, weather conditions, such as heavy snow, will
or if accurate depth information is not required. inevitably lead to a delay, as site features
This type of survey can be useful at early stages need to be visible for this type of survey to be
of project planning. carried out. It is advisable that a Type C survey
is procured early within the project lifecycle to
It should be noted however that this survey
ensure that if any delays do occur, they do not
does require a site visit, and on smaller sites
impact upon the proposed works.
it may be more cost effective to directly
commission a Type B survey to more All utility record plan data that can be positively
accurately locate services, which by its nature matched to visible features can be awarded
will generally incorporate elements of a Type a Quality Level C, reflecting the increased
C survey. confidence that can be placed in that positional
information. The horizontal and vertical
Timeframes and Quality accuracies are still undefined at this level, as
The timeframes for the delivery of a Type C depths cannot be identified and uncertainties in
survey will depend on a number of factors. horizontal position will still remain (for example,
The chosen survey practitioner is required a sewer may be offset to one side of a manhole
to provide the client with a programme of cover). Any utility record information that
works and a good estimation of the time cannot be positively identified on site should
required in advance of commencing the survey. remain as Quality Level D.
If the practitioner is required to procure the For details on deliverables please see
Type D survey in advance of the site visit then Section 5.
there will be a delay of around ten to twenty

3.3 Survey Type B: Detection. to breaking ground. Surveys may also be
PAS128 defines a detection survey as one that undertaken when compiling information on
uses geophysical techniques to scan the survey sites in advance of land sales, so as to inform
area to locate utilities. It is the first survey type prospective purchasers as to the situation
that allows vertical and horizontal accuracies with regard to utilities on site. These surveys
to be defined as geophysical techniques often are becoming essential for designers too.
have the capacity to determine the depth of Costly diversions can be designed out and the
burial and the horizontal position of the utility cost savings from reducing the construction
that has been located. This is not always the programme can often pay for the survey several
case though, due to the inherent limitations times over.
associated with these techniques and the effect
Type B detection surveys must be carried
of site conditions. Quality Level B has therefore
out using the two techniques referred to in
been subdivided into four quality levels (B1 –
Section 2, electromagnetic location (EML) and
B4) which reflect the different confidence levels
ground penetrating radar (GPR). Because of
obtained in the final results. These are awarded
the way the electromagnetic location method
based on whether the utility was detected by
is applied, most Type B surveys will also
one or more techniques and if reliable depths
incorporate elements of a Type A verification
have been obtained. A Type D survey is a
survey (see Section 3.4), as it is usual for
prerequisite to undertaking a Type B survey.
inspection chambers to be opened during
a Type B survey so that the different EML
Advice, Uses and Objectives methods outlined in Section 2 can be used. In
A detection survey is commissioned when some cases, it may be apparent before a survey
a more accurate depiction is required of that one of these techniques may be unsuitable
underground utilities. This can be for the in certain areas due to soil conditions or rough
purposes of project planning, to obtain the terrain, in which case consideration should be
information required for design, or importantly, given to the use of alternative geophysical
to ensure the safety of project personnel techniques such as those detailed in Section 2.
when excavations are planned. Health and If, after consideration of possible alternatives,
safety guidance requires that a search for no second technique is found to be suitable for
underground services is undertaken prior the site and aims of the survey, it would still be
Showing Utility detection taking place

PAS128 compliant but the higher quality an identical specification. If there is uncertainty
levels of Quality Level B1 and Quality Level about requirements, an alternative approach
B1P cannot be obtained. A detailed reasoning is to specify one methodology to cover the
for why only one technique was used in any entire site at tender stage, so that practitioners
part of the survey area should be included are all quoting on a level playing field. Once
in the final report. a preferred supplier is chosen, the survey
methodologies to be employed can be refined
Alongside the commissioning of a Type B on an area by area basis in discussion with
detection survey, it is also the responsibility the survey practitioner. A pre-start meeting,
of the client to agree the particular search either in person or by virtual methods (virtual
methodology selected for individual areas workspaces, teleconferencing, video calls) will
on site. PAS128 details four different greatly aid this process and should be part of
methodologies that are suitable for surveying any PAS128 detection survey.
sites of varying levels of complexity. If post-
processing of GPR data is applied, this is It is currently not uncommon on projects
signified with a suffix (P). for several identical utility surveys to be
commissioned, investigating the same area at
Many larger sites will consist of a mix of areas different stages of the project lifecycle, despite
of differing complexity and therefore to be there being no changes to the area from one
cost-efficient a range of survey methodologies survey to the next. This situation can arise for a
should be employed. The methodologies to be number of reasons:
used in specific areas should be discussed and
agreed with the survey practitioner in advance • Sites may pass from one contractor to
of the survey commencing. Over and above another without the exchange of this
the four survey methodologies, there are also information
notes within the text that suggest how these
methodologies can be deployed in a cost • Data may be lost or misplaced
effective manner (e.g. Clause 8.2.1.1.5 Note
• Contractors may have preferred suppliers or
2 regarding perimeter surveys of large
may carry out the survey in-house
brownfield sites).
• Contractors may not trust the information
If the commissioning client has good
that they have been given.
understanding of the site requirements and
detailed knowledge of PAS128 it may be The increasing use of Building Information
possible to specify in detail the methodologies Modelling (BIM) working practices should
required within each area at tender stage, to reduce the instances of data not being passed
ensure all practitioners are providing costs for over or of being lost. With the introduction of
Not all sites are suitable for survey using GPR, and the presence of obstructions will also hinder the deployment of electromagnetic detection
methods. Sites should be cleared of obstructions, in so far as practicable, in advance of a survey visit

PAS128 as a common standard throughout the employed (although consultation with the
industry there will be less grounds for distrust survey practitioner is recommended), it is the
amongst contractors, with more confidence survey practitioner’s responsibility to assign
being placed in survey results if they have the appropriate quality level to the results
been undertaken to PAS128 standards and of their utility detection survey. A drawing
can be recognized as such. The combination produced to display the results of a utility
of these new working practices should detection survey is likely to show a variety of
benefit practitioner, contractor and client different quality levels as not all utilities will be
alike, resulting in decreased project costs detected to the same degree of confidence.
and increased project safety. A PAS128 survey The different quality levels available and their
meets the requirements of BIM Level 1 and, associated accuracies are shown in Table 1 of
if correctly specified, the conversion into a PAS128 and reproduced here in Appendix 1.
GIS or other BIM model should meet BIM The process by which the appropriate quality
Level 2 requirements. Further definition may level is determined is summarised below.
be required in this document as BIM
specifications emerge. NB It is not possible to specify which quality
level a detection survey must achieve – A
Type B survey can be commissioned,
Timeframes and Quality
but not a Quality Level B1 survey.
Timeframes for delivery of a Type B Detection
survey are of course dependent upon the NB PAS128 Accuracies reflect a combination
size of the project, and the methodologies of the accuracy of the detection of the utility
employed. Methodologies using closer spaced on site and the accuracy of location by total
search transects will need more time on site, station or GPS/GNSS.
and those using post-processing of GPR data
will require additional office time to carry out How are Quality Levels awarded?
the data processing and interpretation of the
A detection survey will start with a review
results. These more comprehensive and time
of the information obtained from a desktop
consuming methodologies inevitably lead to
records search, at which point all utility data
greater cost, but they should also result in an
will have a Quality Level D.
increase to the completeness and confidence
that can be assigned to results. Once on site, any information that can be
correlated with identifiers (street furniture,
It is a requirement of PAS128 that a practitioner
labelled inspection chambers, valve covers,
is able to provide a programme of works
pipe or cable risers) can be awarded a Quality
in advance of commencement. This should
Level C.
be submitted alongside risk assessments
and method statements following the The survey practitioner will then investigate the
survey commission. It is always possible that area using the geophysical techniques and the
unforeseen delays can occur due to weather, search methodologies outlined in Section 2.
access issues or a site being more complex than
anticipated, but the survey practitioner should Quality Level B1 is awarded if a utility has
•
keep the client informed of any such delays at been found with two or more techniques
the earliest opportunity. on site (e.g. EML and GPR) with both
techniques providing similar position
Survey work on the highway will require the and depth to the utility.
appropriate permits from the local highways
department, and if entry into inspection Quality Level B2 is awarded if the utility
•
chambers is required, the relevant utility asset has been detected with just one technique
owner will need to provide their consent and that estimates depth, or possibly by two
probably issue their own permit. All of these techniques that show conflicting depths.
processes will take time and it may be that Because there is poor depth correlation
four to six weeks may be needed for planning between two techniques, the accuracy
processes. For large scale works, especially those stated for a QL-B2 is less than for a QL-B1.
involving road closures, additional time may be
Quality Level B3 is awarded when a
•
required for the relevant notices to be issued.
utility can only be detected using one
Whilst it is the client’s role to specify the type method, and that method has been
of survey required and the methodology unable to provide a reliable depth.

Quality Level B4 is awarded when a utility
• been instructed, the identification of any
is strongly suspected to exist but cannot be detected utilities, the determination of quality
found using any of the detection methods. levels and other buried obstructions is normally
deferred until the data is returned to the office.
The detection survey will then have found as This means that full results will not be marked
much of the unseen underground apparatus out on the ground unless a return to site is
as is possible without excavation. made specifically for this purpose. If this is
going to be required, it should be advised at
NB Quality Level B4 is an assumed route and
tender stage so that the practitioner can make
it enshrines the information that a detection
allowances for a return visit in their fees.
attempt was made and failed. It would also
be used where a utility has been traced to B1, This delay in interpretation means that the
B2 or B3 standards along most of its length, highest quality level that can be awarded
but then could not be found along intermittent on site (save for utilities visually identified in
sections, despite the general linear trend inspection chambers) is a B2, as the GPR
suggesting the utility was a continuous feature. data will not be examined until later.
For more detail on quality levels and the
accuracies required see Section 8. After the GPR data is processed and
interpreted, any linear features detected that
NB If depth estimations differ between EML correlate both in position and depth to features
and GPR techniques, the calibrated GPR depth found in the EML survey can be awarded a
is usually preferred, if the utility can be clearly QL-B1P. If a feature is detected that correlates
identified in the radargram. to the position of an EML response but does
not match in depth, it can be awarded a QL-
NB To ensure a duty of care, unless there is
B2P, to reflect the reduced confidence in the
good information indicating that a utility service
depth measurement. If a utility is only detected
that is shown on an asset record but cannot
using EML despite post-processing of the GPR
be detected no longer exists, the practitioner
data, it should remain a QL-B2. A QL-B3P
should transfer the positions of utilities shown
might be awarded where an EML response
on record information to the survey model and
of undefined depth is matched by a GPR
label it as either, Quality Level D or Quality
response indicating a utility related feature,
Level C (if both ends can be fixed to existing
(e.g. a trench or protection slab) but which
street furniture or surveyed end of trace
does not find the utility itself. The GPR provides
locations).
some added confidence that the EML does
NB Where inspection chambers are opened in relate to a utility feature but cannot provide
the course of the survey, any utilities found within any additional supporting information about
can be recorded, and because they have been how deep it might be. Alternatively, a feature
visually identified, awarded a Quality Level A. found in the GPR data after post-processing
that is considered to be utility related but not
Note on GPR post-processing correspond to the actual position of the pipe
or cable might be awarded a B3P rating.
Where post-processing of the GPR data has
A trial hole excavated to identify the position of a gas pipe and the service connection to a nearby building

Recording the results of a Type A vacuum excavation survey
It is vital that the grid used for a post-processed The PAS128 hierarchical process generally
survey is accurately located using the same calls for a verification survey towards the end
survey control as that used to locate the EML of the process, and following a Type D survey
results, as a variance in position relative to one (mandatory) and either a Type C or Type B
another will give rise to spurious results and survey (optional but recommended).
incorrect identifications. For more details on
the merits of post-processing GPR data, please It can be of particular use in confirming the
see Appendix 7. locations of utilities where a Type B detection
survey has had difficulties in providing a
sufficiently high level of confidence in the
3.4 Survey Type A: Verification
position of the utility. They are especially
A verification survey involves the visual important in providing detailed information
identification and recording of utilities, through where there is conflicting information between
either the opening of inspection chambers, or design plans and utility position. Exposing
the exposing and visual identification of utilities a conductive utility can also provide the
with excavation methods such as vacuum opportunity to trace that utility via some
excavation or hand digging. A Type D survey form of direct connection technique and thus
is a prerequisite to undertaking a Type A survey provide better detection data for areas beyond
but it is strongly recommended that a Type the excavation. A client might also decide to
B survey is also undertaken prior to a Type A use these techniques to carry out a quality
survey that involves excavation. assessment of detection surveys performed
by a contractor.
Advice, Uses and Objectives
Excavation of hand dug trial holes or smaller
A verification survey provides the highest
intrusions made using vacuum excavation are
level of confidence in the position of utilities,
the safest ways to confirm an accurate depth
as it involves visual identification and precise
and position on a utility where there is not
measurement of the vertical and horizontal
already access via a manhole or inspection pit.
position. This survey type is usually required
Excavations may take the form of single spot
when the position of utilities needs to be
excavations to confirm single utilities or more
established beyond doubt and there is little
extensive trench excavations for the verification
room for error.
of multiple utilities. The interval and positioning

of trial holes will be project dependent and
should be specified by the client based
upon conflicts with the project requirements.
The survey practitioner may be able to offer
valuable advice concerning the practicalities
and placement of trial holes based upon the
findings of the utility detection survey.
Any intrusive work should be carried out in

accordance with the requirements of HSG47
(see Section 15) and should be undertaken
with strict regard to the rules and regulations
applicable to excavations near or over
dangerous utilities, such as electric, gas or fuel.
All excavations should be undertaken assuming
that utilities are present. Suitable safe systems
of work must be employed, and consideration
must be given to the installation of shoring
equipment, or using stepped and battered
excavations to ensure safe access
to utilities at depth. Any personnel involved
in the excavations and installation of such
equipment should be appropriately trained,
qualified and certified.
The reinstatement of the trial hole might be

an appreciable part of the cost of a survey,
particularly if it lies within the carriageway
or areas of quality landscaping. The survey
practitioner should give proper consideration to
the plans for reinstatement prior to undertaking
the works, so that reinstatement occurs in a
safe and timely fashion. Verification in some
locations may not be achievable due to
unsuitable ground conditions or construction
methods, and this might not always be Entry into inspection chambers is sometimes required to facilitate utility
mapping. This will require specialist equipment, trained personnel,
apparent prior to the survey commencement. dedicated risk assessments and coordination with relevant authorities.
If such problems are encountered, PAS128
directs the practitioner to notify the client at covers in the course of a survey and that the
the earliest opportunity of any such failures so client is informed if these are found. The client
that the client can decide to reposition the trial can then decide, either to take appropriate
holes to ensure the overall aims of the survey action to obtain access to these covers, or to
are achieved. exclude them from the scope of the survey.
Where a verification survey is to involve the Additionally, it may be advisable to include the
opening of manholes and inspection chambers lifting of covers of the ‘next manhole on run’ or
it is the responsibility of the survey practitioner within a ‘buffer’ zone of say 5-10m around the
to obtain any permission necessary to lift survey area to allow a better understanding of
manhole and inspection pit covers. If, during utilities to which there is no access within the
the course of a survey, it is found that manholes survey area. Consideration should be given to
or inspection chambers are obstructed such following a utility to the next available access
that they cannot be opened, the survey point outside of the survey area, if its position is
practitioner must inform the client so that known from record drawings.
appropriate action to provide access can be
Entry into manholes requires confined space
taken whilst the survey practitioner is on site,
entry training and equipment. Many utility
if practicable. It is recommended that the
survey organisations do not, as a matter of
practitioner should not lift broken or damaged

course, employ suitably qualified personnel and consideration concerns the interval required to
so are unable to enter manholes. In this case obtain the necessary consents and permissions
collected information relies on observations for the work. Excavations into the highway
from the surface. Some companies are able require the appropriate permits, issued by the
to offer personnel trained to enter confined local highways department, and if entry into
spaces and if this is going to be an element inspection chambers is required the relevant
of the survey it is imperative that the correct utility asset owner may also need to provide
permissions, risk assessments and safety consent and issue a permit. All of these
provisions are in place to facilitate this work. processes will take time and it may be that four
to six weeks are needed for planning processes.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) offer a For large scale works, especially those involving
publication ‘Confined Space – A brief guide road closures, additional time may be required
to working safely’ (INDG258), providing more for the relevant notices to be issued.
information and the survey practitioner, if
correctly qualified, should be able to provide Information obtained by a verification
more detail. Certain utility types, for example survey is awarded a Quality Level A.
deep sewers, may not be able to be located This level has stringent accuracy
accurately without recourse to confined requirements so it is important that the
space entry. The additional time and cost location is undertaken using survey methods
resulting from these activities may be deemed that can achieve this level of precision. It is
worthwhile to increase the certainty of utility recommended that electronic techniques
information, depending on the requirements such as total station and GNSS methods are
of the project. employed to capture this positional data. For
more detail on quality levels and the accuracies
Timeframes and Quality required see Section 8.
The time required to undertake the actual For details on deliverables please see
survey is dependent on the size of the project, Section 5.
but aside from this, the most important time
Manholes are usually only able to be recorded from the surface if staff trained to enter confined spaces are not deployed. Requesting confined space
access will add time and cost to any survey.

4 PROJECT PLANNING:
INPUTS FROM
THE CLIENT
An essential part of a successful survey is a good - Survey detail accuracy band table [RICS GN
brief from the client. This guidance note is not Ch2 Table 2.3, pg12]
meant to be an exhaustive industry checklist but
aims to provide sufficient information for a client - Deliverables [RICS GN Ch8, pg 42].
to be able to draw up such a brief. Clients are
Mapping should have been surveyed (recorded
referred to the 2014 British Standards Institute
and digitally presented) at an appropriate
PAS128 Specification for underground utility
scale. In complex areas, such as an inner city
detection, verification and location, for advice
environment, the mapping should be at scales of
on the preparation of such documents and the
1:200 or greater to allow a clarity of visualisation
useful additional information that is given there.
and interpretation. In some instances a survey at
Of particular use are the following: 1:500 would suffice but this would normally only
be in larger rural areas with less detail.
- Process Flowchart [PAS128 Fig1, pg 7]
(Appendix 2) If no such mapping is available it may be
appropriate to commission the mapping from
- Quality Level of Survey Output Schedule the utility survey contractor, assuming they have
[PAS128 Table1, pg8] (Appendix1a) the capability, or a specialist topographical
survey practitioner.
- Detection Methods [PAS128 Table2, pg14]
(Appendix 1b) The cost of a topographical survey can be
significantly reduced if carried out in conjunction
- Other Technologies [PAS128 Table 3, pg 15]. with a PAS128 survey, as often the required
equipment is already on site. Costs will also be
Clients are also referred to:
reduced if the topographical survey depicts
- Appendix 3 of this document utility inspection covers. Cover levels are
important and will allow pertinent information,
- RICS guidance note “Measured surveys of such as invert levels, to be calculated from
Land, Buildings and utilities” 3rd Edition 2014 measured depths for drainage systems present
[Underground Utility Surveys, Ch5, pg 31]. within a search area. Ordnance Survey maps
with no street furniture depicted would not be
Additionally, as part of the brief, the client
considered adequate as a topographic base for
should provide as much of the following
a PAS128 survey.
information to the tenderer where that
information is already to hand. Examples are
given below. 4.2 Survey Control Points
Unless the utility surveyor is to carry out a
4.1 Topographic Survey topographic survey as part of the contract,
the client should provide information on survey
The results of the survey can be overlaid but
control points to which the utility survey should
good base mapping is needed. Clients are
be referenced. Clients and practitioners should
referred to the RICS guidance note “Measured
note that 2D surveys can only produce 2D utility
surveys of Land, Buildings and utilities” 3rd
surveys. If a 3D utility survey is required then a
Edition 2014:
3D topographic survey will be needed, ideally
- Quick specifications [RICS GN Appendix B, with a full digital terrain model that represents
pg46] the ground surface levels.

4.3 Records 4.6 Restrictions on the use of spray paint
If a records search has already been obtained (see also Section 12)
from statutory undertakers and owners of The chosen survey contractor should be made
existing mains, then this information should aware of areas were the use of spray paint is
be passed to the tenderers and certainly to prohibited or restricted.
the commissioned utility surveyor. A list of the
utility companies and owners contacted should 4.7 CAD drawings and drawing
be included in line with the work schedule. conventions (see also Section 5,
The report should satisfy the requirements of Appendices 4 and 5)
a PAS128 Type D survey (see Sections 3 and
A standard Utility Survey CAD Line type and
5). The records held by these organisations
convention file is included here in Appendix 4
normally only cover mains services. Service
and should be used as a default in the absence
feeds onto private properties will not be shown.
of specific requirements from the client. Prior
It should be noted that utility record information to this publication there has been no single
is notoriously of poor quality and accuracy and standard for utility CAD drawings.
is often out of date. Utilities are often not shown
If this standard is not used, due account should
in their correct position and may have been
be taken of the clients’ existing formats,
relocated or even removed since the records
standards and protocols and details of what
were last updated. It is for this reason that
line types, colours and conventions will meet
PAS128 specifies that for record information
expectations for the final deliverable. CAD
to be valid when used to inform a detection
drawings should be outlined in a specification
survey, it should have been sourced within
or agreed by the practitioner and
ninety days of the survey commencement date.
commissioning client.
It is stressed that Type D utility record
The wider industry is currently in a state of
search is a prerequisite for all subsequent
change and development, especially in the
types of PAS128 utility surveys (see Section 3)
light of the BIM (Building Information Model)
programme championed by the Government
4.4 Access and the further development of 3D software
Access to the site and permission to enter and formats. It is anticipated that this document
is normally arranged by the client. Work in will be updated to take account of any
the highway, where road or lane closures are significant changes as they occur.
needed, can sometimes be facilitated early
on by the client to reduce delays whilst notice The client should specify whether hard copies
periods are run down (see Sections 6 and 9 and digital copies are required. If digital copies
below). If carriageway works are required it is are required, the format should be specified.
essential that the survey contractor is qualified Careful consideration should be given to scale
to undertake such works, and that an approved as this will have a direct effect on the number
methodology is being used to ensure a safe and of individual printable sheets, should the hard
legal working environment. Where the work is copy option be needed. This is especially
on private land details of relevant landowners, relevant for surveys covering large areas.
tenants and agents should be provided to the
Generally, a workable scale for a supplied
survey practitioner in advance of the site visit.
topographical survey would be 1:200. If the area
is over congested with utilities, then the resulting
4.5 Known Health and Safety Hazards drawings should be supplied at 1:100 or even
All information on hazards known to the 1:50, allowing adequate room for the required
client, such as vehicle movements, plant and text without congesting the drawing.
machinery, contaminated land, Control of
Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 4.8 Insurances
(COSHH) restrictions and similar should be
The level and duration of public liability,
provided to all tenderers and confirmed to the
employer’s liability and professional indemnity
successful survey contractor.
insurance required will be advised and agreed
Clients are also referred to Section 10 for more by the client.
information on Health and Safety.

5 OUTPUTS FROM
THE CONTRACTOR
(DELIVERABLES)
Deliverables include the results of the c) Plan showing boundary of survey area
survey and should provide the client with an
understanding of the survey accuracy, the d) List of utility owners contacted
quality levels obtained and the methodologies
e) List of utility owners who have responded,
used, together with details of any limitations
and actions taken to contact non –
encountered during the course of the work
responders
and any cautionary advice notes. Survey data
can be presented in a variety of outputs, such f) Any information received from respondents,
as CAD, GIS or BIM file formats, in addition to e.g. plans, letters, asset guidance notes
other project specific deliverables.
g) Date of issue of any maps/plans/letters
5.1 Data format h) Note detailing how the information was
TSA supports the standardisation of CAD/GIS/ obtained and the limitations of such
BIM deliverables across the industry to reduce information. This should include a warning
the possibility of plans being misread and to that no site visit nor geophysical detection
prevent difficulties that can arise from this. techniques were used in the compilation
Where the client does not prescribe a specific of such information.
layer/model naming convention, line style and
line weight, text size, keys, title and boxes, Practitioners may offer additional options, the
the CAD/GIS/BIM drawing layers, model most common of these being a compiled plan
names and colour coding should be in in digital format, often using CAD, GIS or BIM
accordance with Appendix 4 and Appendix 5. software. Where this is an option, attention
should be paid to the type of base mapping
Layer filtering may be applied to assist used for the final output, and the consequent
with isolating utility types, quality levels accuracies associated with such mapping.
and other relevant features but should OS base mapping, often used for record
follow the convention in Appendix 5. information, is surveyed at scales of 1:1250
for urban areas and 1:2500 for rural areas.
Clients may have their own line type and
layering conventions, in which case the survey
5.3. Survey Type C deliverables
practitioner should be commissioned to adhere
to these. Examples supplied by the client from The deliverables of a Type C survey are not
previously completed surveys would help with well defined in the PAS128 specification, and
this process. therefore it is important for these to be agreed
with the survey practitioner in advance. It is
5.2 Survey Type D deliverables usual for a report to be issued documenting the
checks undertaken, any variances discovered,
The results of a Type D desktop utility
and plans showing the revised data following
records search are normally presented by the
these checks and measurements. A digital CAD
practitioner in report format. PAS128 defines
plan is of most use for planning future works.
the minimum requirements that a report should
Comprehensive site photography should also
include, which are:
be included in any report.
a) Company details of practitioner
If an accurate topographic survey is available
b) Client details for the site then this will lead to more accurate

final plans, as OS base mapping does not success or otherwise that the survey has
show the presence of relevant details. If only been able to achieve. It allows the client to
OS base mapping is available it is essential understand issues of conflict and areas where
that additional topographic survey of relevant further survey work or verification might be
utility features is undertaken so that this can be needed. The minimum requirements of a
overlain onto the OS base plan, allowing the PAS128 survey report are that it contain a:
Type C data to be accurately depicted relative
to these features. This will inevitably add • Description of project requirements
additional cost to the survey, but is essential
• List of detection methodologies used
as a Type C survey cannot be carried out
without it. • Discussion of the success of each method
5.4. Survey Type B deliverables • Plan showing areas where detection was
unsuccessful
A Type B PAS128 compliant survey has to
be undertaken with both EML and GPR as a • List of utilities expected to be present but
minimum. The client may choose either post- that were not detected
processed or on-site interpretation of the GPR
element. The deliverables of a Type B detection • List of buried features/obstructions other
survey must include a report and a drawing. than utilities that were detected (if any)
Drawings and plans should be provided in • Plans (and photographs, where available)
digital format output through CAD, GIS or BIM showing all areas of conflict between record
software, or in another format, as requested information, site information and utilities
by the client. In the absence of any client detected
request, the de facto prescribed deliverables
• Recommendations for any further work,
that a practitioner should offer are a digital file
either carried out during the execution
and paper hard copy. The conventions for the
of the survey following identification of a
drawing should be as outlined in Appendix
requirement, or that might be carried out
4 and 5, unless an alternative specification is
in any future phase of works.
provided by the client.
NB Section 11.1 of the PAS128 specification
NB A template drawing file can be downloaded
lists the minimum requirements for producing
from the TSA website.
a report. Section 11.3 covers the addition of
The production of a report is an opportunity metadata and attributes data.
to outline the survey methods used and the
Mark up on site with position and depth information but no PAS128 quality levels. This is commonly the case if a survey is being carried out using GPR
post-processing, as quality levels are assigned in the office and why reports and drawings should always be consulted to ensure the completeness of
information.

Additional information may be included at the Examples of data presentation might be:
discretion of the practitioner, or if requested
by the client (normally at the time of tender). • Section drawings showing the depth
Submissions such as processed GPR data or of burial and positioning of the trench
copies of site note books may be requested
• GIS or BIM database with plan positions
by the client and can be used within an audit
of utilities and all associated metadata
context to demonstrate that work has been
completed to the required standard. • Report detailing all work undertaken with
relevant measurements and photographs.
Mark out of on-site interpretation surveys
(Clause 8.2.1.1.7.)
5.6 Post fieldwork meeting
The mark out of utility detection results may For a PAS128 compliant survey a post-fieldwork
constitute a survey deliverable if it has been meeting should be held to review the results
carried out to inform imminent excavation in terms of the information delivered and any
works. PAS128 specifies the way a mark out remaining areas of uncertainty, and to discuss
survey is undertaken (PAS128: Section 8.2.2). whether additional fieldwork is required.
It also lists the minimum data to be collected The meeting may be a face-to-face meeting
from visual inspection at access points e.g. or a virtual meeting (telephone, video-
manholes and inspection chambers and for all conferencing).
other verification surveys e.g. trial holes and
excavations (PAS128: Section 9.2.2) if these
activities are happening concurrently with
the detection survey.
If site mark-up is commissioned for the purpose

of informing groundworks, drawings and a
report still need to be produced and there is
still a requirement to record the coordinates
of any point where a utility has been found
and marked (PAS128: clause 8.2.1.1.4. m).
This record should include the utility type,
depth, and quality level. This requirement
is normally satisfied by recording each
detected point using a total station or GNSS
device, with the required details noted on
the data collection device or recorded using
photographs and site notes. If other types of
buried obstruction are identified during the
GPR survey a record of this needs to be kept,
and general site photographs showing the
site mark-up should be taken and presented
in the final report.
NB Section 12 of this document addresses

environmental issues and the judicial use
of spray paint.
5.5 Survey Type A deliverables

PAS128 requires comprehensive detail to
be recorded during a Type A verification
survey (PAS128: clause 11.6), however the
presentation format is not strictly specified.
The information could therefore come
in a variety of formats, and the preferred
requirements should be discussed in detail with
the survey practitioner prior to commencement.

6 TIMESCALES
6.1 Programme of Works requirement for this, it should be indicated
It is a requirement of PAS128 that a practitioner at the tender stage.
is able to provide a programme of works in
Whilst a Type C survey may progress quickly
advance of commencement. This should be
once all supporting information is in place,
submitted alongside risk assessments and
arranging a Type B survey may be more
method statements following the survey
complex. Risk assessments and method
commission. Whilst the time required for
statements will need to be prepared, and
some elements, such as a Type D desktop
there may be delays associated with accessing
records search, can usually be predicted in
land, utility infrastructure or arranging traffic
advance, other survey types may be subject to
management and the requisite work permits.
unforeseen delays that can occur as a result of
Other factors affecting timescales include:
a variety of factors, e.g. unfavourable weather
conditions or problems with access. • The methodology specified
When considering timescales and programmes • The complexity of utilities in the survey area
one of the most important elements of PAS128
is the mandatory requirement to obtain record • Whether post-processing of the GPR data
drawings before attending the site (see Type has been specified
D surveys). If the site survey is urgent and all
• The production of drawings
other arrangements are in place, delays can be
minimised by requesting an expedited service • The type of digital output required (2D/3D/
from the record provider, but this will incur GIS/BIM)
extra cost. If the survey is not urgent, the time
needed to source utility records can often be • The writing of reports.
used to arrange other requirements e.g. traffic
management plans or permits to access utility If delays, or the prospect of delays occur,
assets, so it should not necessarily be regarded the survey practitioner should keep the
as lost time. client informed at the earliest opportunity.
NB Expedited searches do not generally A typical programme should include the

produce 100% responses for all utility types, following key stages:
and cannot guarantee faster response times
• Pre-fieldwork preparation, including
than standard services.
obtaining utility companies’ records
The next consideration is the need for
• Pre-fieldwork meeting
appropriate mapping of the survey area,
which is required for Type C or Type B • Preparation of site documentation (risk
surveys. If a detailed topographic survey is assessments/method statements and
not available, time may need to be set aside traffic management plans)
to commission this service. Utility survey
practitioners may have the requisite skills to • Commencement of fieldwork.
undertake a topographic survey alongside the
• Completion of fieldwork
utility detection survey, which should reduce
the overall commissioning time. If there is a • Commencement of reporting

• Completion of reporting and submission
of draft drawings for approval by the client
• Post-fieldwork meeting
• Submission of final approved drawings.
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Example programme of works showing typical durations for 100m2 of Footpath at M3, 1000m2 of Highway & Footpaths at M3 & 10000m2 of Highway
& Footpaths at M4.

7 ACCURACY &
LIMIT OF LIABILITY
7.1 Accuracy on the drawing. Pipe levels in manholes on
Accuracy will depend on a number of factors gravity drainage systems should be given as
including: invert levels.
a) PAS128 Survey Type selected by the client Measurements during intrusive work (QL-A)
should be taken by a utility surveyor – not the
b) The methodology employed excavator driver! This affords the opportunity
for the surveyor to accurately position the
c) The accuracy with which the survey grid utilities within the excavation and, if part of a
is established and recorded larger programme of survey, to trace exposed
d) The accuracy of the base mapping utilities from the trench using active EML
techniques, and thereby improve quality levels
e) The resolution of the instrumentation used of the survey.
f) The skill of the operator(s)

7.2 Limit of liability
g) The accuracy of the topographic surveying Depiction of the position of utilities found
used to record detected utilities such as, in Type B surveys rely to a great extent
measuring with tape, total station or survey on the use of instrumentation. Even when
grade GPS. It is never acceptable carried out diligently and to the best of the
to estimate or pace distances operator’s ability there will be inaccuracies and
omissions if some lines are undetectable. If the
h) The accuracy of the CAD / GIS draft positioning of utilities is critical to design, it is
the responsibility of the client or the user of
i) The calibration of the equipment used.
the survey results to confirm the actual position
In Appendix 6 two charts are reproduced of detected utilities using intrusive techniques
showing the expected resolution, depth (Survey Type A). In the case of design works
range and limitations for both EML and where it may not be possible to carry out
GPR techniques. intrusive work prior to construction starting,
the designer should take into consideration the
It should be emphasised that depths quality levels actually achieved by the survey.
determined by EML are to the centre of the This is of particular importance for projects
utility. If the diameter cannot be measured or involving trenchless technology or piling.
taken from record drawings, then the depth
of burial to the top will not be known. Where A statement of liability including a suitable
depths have been determined by GPR, this will note on the drawings should be included
be the depth to the top of the utility. It must be with each survey report (See Appendix 8).
remembered that GPR signal returns might
be from the top of concrete surround, warning
tiles or variation in trench backfill.
Wherever possible, depths should be given to

the top of the utility. If departing from this norm
a note to that effect should be made

8 TRAFFIC
MANAGEMENT (TM)
All work in the highway (including footways)
needs to be carried out in accordance with
the Traffic Management Act 2004 and the
Traffic (Scotland) Act.
Traffic management (TM) needs to address
pedestrian traffic as well as vehicular traffic,
all members of the public and employees/
contractors. It is useful to consider the
following points when deciding on the scale
of TM required.
a) It is recommended that all operatives
working on the highway should be New
Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA)
operative or supervisor qualified
b) The intrinsic health and safety of all those
involved in the survey work and all who may
come into contact with it (e.g. pedestrians
and motorists). In particular, the needs of
the disabled and infants in pushchairs/
prams should be taken into account
c) Consultation with the highway authority
Traffic management provision should only be deployed by appropriately
and the police. In some cases street qualified personnel
works permits will be required. Allow time k) Consideration should be given to either
within the survey schedule for permits, undertaking TM ‘in-house’ (the survey
consultation and approvals company/practitioner) or requesting
d) TM consultation should also be made such works are carried out by a specialist
with residents and local traders TM company. The latter will have a
cost implication on the project but an
e) Suspension of parking
experienced TM company may have a good
f) Bus diversions rapport with the local highways authority
g) Night or week-end working and be better positioned to arrange any
necessary permits with minimal delay
h) Notices to the highway authority
l) For local authorities, use of the in-house
i) Implications on cost to the survey and
contractor can significantly reduce costs
timescales
and simplify the process. The contractor
j) The appropriate equipment to be used, should have a ‘bulk’ cost for TM and have
taking into account adverse weather all the necessary contacts and access to the
conditions, wind and rain permission process.

9 HEALTH AND SAFETY
This document is not intended to provide • Control of Substances Hazardous to
detailed guidance in respect of the health and Health Regulations
safety requirements that may be applicable.
For this clients and practitioners are referred • Personal Protective Equipment at
to the Health and Safety Executive guidance Work Regulations
referenced below. In addition, specific
• New Roads and Streetworks Act
considerations of Health and Safety are dealt
with in each section as the matter arises. • The Construction Design and
Management Regulations.
It is worth reproducing here the hazard warning
note contained in the forward to PAS128 pg ii: Method statements and risk assessments
provided by practitioners should be site-
WARNING specific and available for review in advance
PAS 128 calls for the use of procedures of works proceeding.
that can be injurious to health if adequate
In addition to the guidance above, there are
precautions are not taken. It refers only to
a number of other general considerations to
technical suitability and does not absolve
be taken into account when commissioning
the user from legal obligations relating to
to ensure that the practitioner’s health and
Health and Safety at any stage.
safety plan addresses issues properly and
Practitioners are obliged to take guidance comprehensively.
from the following clauses in PAS128:
These would typically include, but are not
• The Project Planning chapter which restricted to:
advocates a holistic approach to survey
• Hazards associated with accessing confined
commission and planning, with a focus
spaces (e.g. toxic gas, oxygen deficiency).
upon explicit health and safety hazards and
[see INDG258-Confined Spaces – a brief
issues, risk assessments, method statements
guide to working safely]
and safety planning. [PAS128 Ch4, pg4].
• Gas Detection methods and training.
• The chapter on verification survey (Survey
This is particularly important as all
Type A) also provides general and specific
“invasive” aspects of utility detection
guidance on invasive survey methods;
require the safeguarding of personnel near
including safe digging, confined spaces
enclosed spaces with respect to potential
and excavations [PAS128 Ch9, pg,17].
for dangerous atmospheres. This is often,
In commissioning and undertaking utility but not exclusively, related to entering
surveys the client and practitioner should take confined spaces. For example, personal gas
account of the following regulations (non- detectors may be required PPE when simply
exhaustive): opening inspection chambers, if personnel
will be working in close proximity to them
• Confined Spaces Regulations (e.g. when recording chamber details)
• The Management of Health and Safety • Working in dangerous atmospheres.

at Work Act (Most EML and GPR systems are not
intrinsically safe)

• Working on or near the highway
• Working on or near to railways
• Manual handling when lifting covers

(see Section 11 below)
• Hazards associated with underground

services (e.g. live cables, pressurised
pipes, health hazards, and fast flows in
gravity systems)
• Protecting the public (e.g. pedestrians,

property owners, vulnerable groups)
• Appropriate training of staff. Competent

staff are safe staff (see Section 13 and
g) below)
• Asbestos – particularly in old industrial

plants.
All parties should be aware of their potential

duties under the Construction Design and
Management Regulations (CDM). Further
information may be found in HSE Publications
L144 “Managing Health and Safety in
Construction” and HSG47 “Avoiding Danger
from Underground Services”, and on the HSE
website (see Section 15).
NB Unless there is an in-house capability, it is

important for clients to select a suitable H+S
consultant for their project. Consideration
should be given to: industry accreditations,
professional memberships, internal and external
health and safety training and qualifications to
help them choose an appropriately aware and
competent practitioner. The client should also
be aware of their responsibilities and liabilities
regarding the safe execution of the works.

10 ENVIRONMENTAL
ISSUES
This section does not provide detailed removed and contaminated areas cleaned
guidance on the environmental controls and before leaving the site.
regulations but highlights several general
considerations for the survey to be carried 10.3 Sensitive Radio Environments
out in an environmentally responsible manner.
GPR and EML have restricted use in certain
sensitive areas such as, airfields, prisons,
10.1 Marker Paint defence establishments, radio astronomy sites,
Marker paint used during the detection railway operational infrastructure and areas
process has an unattractive visual impact on within the London Underground. The potential
the streetscape. It is advisable to remove for radio interference should be determined in
ground markings in aesthetically sensitive these areas.
areas after use. A check should be made of
any restrictions on the use of marker paint in The Office of Communication (Ofcom) prohibits
public and private areas. the use of GPR within 7km of radio astronomy
sites without special clearance. Further
Bio-degradable temporary or semi-permanent information can be obtained from Ofcom.
paint should be used in preference to
permanent paint. Wax crayon, French chalk A Code of Practice for the use of GPR can
and pegs are less obtrusive and should be used be obtained from EuroGPR.
where it is practical to do so (See Appendix
4 for colour codes for the different types of 10.4 The Natural Environment
located utilities). Many species of plants and animals in the
United Kingdom and their habitats, are
10.2 Hygiene and Pollution protected by law. Embankments and verges,
Empty paint cans and waste materials should woodland, pasture, farmland, parks and
be removed from site for safe disposal. Noise, gardens are typical areas where protected
vehicle and generator fumes should be kept species might be encountered. Care should be
to a minimum, particularly at night. Any waste taken to avoid disturbance or harming of plant
arisings from drainage systems should be and animal habitat on Sites of Special Scientific
Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserves
Two examples of utilities sprayed up along pavements

(NNRs). Excavation of trial holes
by hand digging and machinery may require
a license. There should also be an awareness
of regulations and law surrounding invasive
plant species.
Further information can be obtained from these

regulatory bodies:
• Natural England
• Northern Ireland Environment Agency
• Scottish Natural Heritage
• Wales Natural Resources.
10.5 Archaeological Sites and Historical

Monuments
The United Kingdom’s archaeological sites,
historical monuments, buildings, battlefields,
parks and gardens are protected by law.
Care should be taken to avoid damage to these

sites. Permission may be required to access and
work on some sites. Excavation of trial holes by
hand digging and machinery may require
a license.
Further information can be obtained from

the regulatory bodies:
• Historic England
• Northern Ireland Environment Agency

– Built Heritage
• Historic Scotland
• Welsh Government Cadw Office.

11 TRAINING
For many years utility detection and mapping • Manual Handling
has been a critical part of the planning and
design for major construction projects and • Working at Height.
continues to play a vital role in the mitigation
These are all pertinent to ensuring the
of risk from service strikes.
safety of personnel and relevant training
A utility surveyor will constantly find themselves should be provided.
in different environments including, inner
Site-specific training will sometimes be
cities, highways, footways, power stations,
required. For example, construction sites
water treatment plants, residential properties,
will usually require operatives attending
commercial properties, factories, railway sites,
to undertake a site-specific induction.
airports, construction sites, adjacent to water
and coastal sites. Different site conditions Some utility companies require specific training
give rise to varying complexities and volumes for a surveyor to be approved to open their
of utilities present, as well as changing the manholes or inspection chambers. Working in
effectiveness of the detection equipment security sensitive environments may require
being used. For these reasons the training specific individual clearances or background
and experience of the utility surveyor is of checks such as, Disclosure Scotland and
paramount importance. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) previously
known as Criminal Records Bureau (CRB).
Health and Safety Training is also of primary
importance. The utility surveyor should hold Utility Detection survey is often classified under
the appropriate accreditation or certificates, planning and design activities. Therefore an
if working within the stated environment: understanding of CDM 2015 may be required
of senior staff.
• New Roads and Street Works Act 1991
(NRSWA) qualification for working in The above is not an exhaustive list but is
highways. (minimum one supervisor to intended to demonstrate that the working
hold NRSWA card) environment gives rise to Health and Safety
training requirements. An overview of Health
• Construction Skills Certificate Scheme
and Safety can be found in Section 9.
(CSCS) qualification for working on
construction sites
Equipment and Plant
• Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme All manufacturers of utility detection equipment
(SSSTS) for site supervisors and Site offer training in the use of their products.
Management Safety Training Scheme
(SMSTS) for site managers This varies from informal demonstrations to
a formal certificated course. It is essential
• First Aid. that a utility surveyor fully understands the
equipment, including the theory behind the
If lifting covers and working around open
technology, the practical application and
manholes the following hazards will apply:
most importantly, its limitations in certain
• Confined Space environments, in order to achieve the best
results. Geophysical or geological surveys
• Gas Detection may be part of a utility mapping company’s

Using a total station to locate the position of detected features on a brownfield site
portfolio, in addition to verification of through technical colleges or universities.

underground utilities in accordance with Radar data interpretation is an area where
BSI PAS128 Survey Type A. These services adequate training and experience is essential
may require additional specialised plant to understand and interpret the often complex
or equipment. scan outputs.
Topographic Equipment Utility Survey Training

The use of total stations and GNSS equipment There are now a small number of private
will be required to spatially record the position training establishments who have developed
of detected utilities and features. Expertise or are developing utility survey courses,
in other techniques such as laser scanning, some of which can be used to demonstrate
aerial photography may also be required. competence and gain Qualifications and Credit
Manufacturers offer training and formal training Framework (QCF) qualifications on The Office
is also available at universities and through of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation
private training providers such as The Survey (Ofqual) register. These qualifications transfer
Association who offer training courses at The to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme
Survey School. See www.surveyschool.co.uk (CSCS) at the following levels:
As this is a highly specialised area of utility • Level 2 Diploma – Utilities Mapping

detection, verification and location survey, it is Technician – Blue craft card
therefore sometimes subcontracted. Where this
is the case close supervision of the topographic • Level 3 Certificate – Utilities Mapping
survey by the utility detection practitioner is Surveyor – Gold supervisory card
essential in order to ensure completeness and
• Level 4 Diploma – Utilities Mapping
guard against inaccuracy.
Supervisor – Gold supervisory card
Survey Processing, Radar Data Interpretation • Level 5 Diploma – Senior Utilities Mapping
and Computer-Aided Draughting Surveyor – Black management card
All of these disciplines are required to
• Level 6 Diploma – Principle Utilities
produce utility survey drawings. Providers
Mapping Surveyor – Black management
of software offer training on their products
card.
and generic CAD training is widely available

The objective is a qualification scheme based The Survey Association and Training
on knowledge and skills covering all aspects As part of our commitment to raising standards
of utility detection and mapping. In terms of throughout the industry, TSA has established
the methodologies, some courses are limited a survey school where training courses in
to electromagnetic survey methods whilst the fundamentals of surveying are provided.
others cover ground penetrating radar as well. Training courses are currently available in
Surveying, Utility Mapping, Setting Out,
The client should understand that it is good
Levelling, Total Stations and Photogrammetry.
practice for the practitioner to ensure that
More courses may be introduced in the future,
a wide range of experience is assigned to
subject to industry demand. For more details
the survey, when appropriate. To ensure the
visit our website at the address below:
sustainability of the industry, it is important that
Level 2 staff gain experience, through working http://www.tsa-uk.org.uk/opportunities/the-
alongside Level 4, 5 and 6 staff with a good survey-school
working knowledge.
For a PAS128 survey the use of GPR and

EML, combined with visual inspection is a
minimum requirement of the specification, and
qualifications of the personnel should reflect
this. Although practitioners should be aware
of the differences between manufacturers’
equipment, it is advisable that any training
undertaken is carried out using equipment
that the individual will actually use on site.
It is currently up to the individual or their

company to determine how to procure their
training but there are a number of clients who
mandate training levels and the competency
of providers and their staff.
The Survey School, run by TSA, offers a range of training courses in general surveying and utility mapping methods

12 GLOSSARY OF
WORDS, TERMS
AND ACRONYMS
WORD DEFINITION
Active Mode A term applied to electromagnetic locator surveying where a

signal is directly connected or induced onto a pipe or cable.
This term also includes the tracing of accessible pipes and
ducts through the insertion of a sonde or line threader
(see also ‘Passive mode’)
ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers
Base mapping Mapping, often supplied by the client, at an appropriate scale

in vector format. The results of the survey can be overlaid
onto it
Cable A line normally introduced to conduct electricity and so

contains metal which can be detected with an electromagnetic
locator
CAD Computer Aided Draughting often used to overlay the results

of the survey onto base mapping
CAT & Genny An acronym for a locator being a ‘Cable Avoidance Tool’
and signal generator
Commissioner (of a survey) Normally the client but it might refer to a consultant acting
on behalf of a client
Designating An American term for ‘Locating’
Diffraction A GPR term used to describe the ‘hyperbolic’ shape seen in

a radargram caused by the reflections from a buried pipe
(see Section 2.3.1)
Drainage A network of pipes and channels to collect both foul and

surface water and carry it to an outfall
Duct A pipe (normally relatively small diameter) installed to carry

cables or other utilities
EM Electromagnetic – the principle behind the operation

of locators
EML Electromagnetic Location
EOT End of Trace with a reason why. Other terms such as ‘unable
to trace – UTT or ‘signal lost’ – SL are also used
EuroGPR European GPR Association

WORD DEFINITION
Excavation (hand) A trial pit or trench temporarily dug by hand to expose utilities
to confirm their position
Excavation (vacuum) A trial pit or trench temporarily dug by high pressure air or
water and the spoil removed by vacuum to expose utilities
to confirm their position
Fibre Optic A telecommunication line using optical fibres for the

transmission of data. Unless reinforced the line will not contain
metal so is undetectable with an EM locator
Geophysics The measurement of physical properties of the ground.

Anomalies in the data can be used to determine the position
and size of buried features
GPR Ground Penetrating Radar (also Ground Probing Radar)
GPS Global Positioning System

NB This acronym has been used throughout this document
in its colloquial sense. More accurately it should be the
generic Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) which
would also cover other positioning systems such as GLONASS
and GALILEO.
Gravity systems A drainage system which relies on gravity to convey the water.
Access is therefore possible via manholes and can be traced
with Sondes or line tracers and inspection using CCTV
Guidance notes A document giving guidance to those wishing to commission

a utility survey. This can also be used to establish best practice
for survey contractors
Inspection chamber A chamber affording access onto a utility – often too small
to allow a person to enter
Line code A means of labelling a utility line on a drawing to show its

duty, depth and quality level. This may also include other
information such as size and material of construction, if known
(see Appendix 4)
Line threading The use of a rod or sonde that emits a signal, allowing its route
to be detected and traced at ground level
Locator An electro-magnetic device for locating buried metal

utilities. The term Electromagnetic Locator (EML) is used
in this document
Main The principal utility conveying liquid, gas, telecommunications

or power as part of a distribution or collection system. This
would normally lie beneath part of a highway. (See also Service)
Manhole An access onto a utility line large enough for man entry.
Mainly associated with drainage systems
Network A complex system of connected utilities – either of one or

multiple types – made up of mains and services distributing
or collecting liquids, gases, telecommunications or power to
a neighbourhood or region

WORD DEFINITION
Node An identifiable point on a network. This may be an access

point, valve, junction or meter
Notation A symbol representing a line type (see Appendix 4)
OFCOM The licensing authority for GPR in the UK
Overhead Common usage describing the position of a utility if not buried
PAS Publicly Available Specification
Passive mode A term applied to electromagnetic locator surveying where

passive signals emitted by a pipe (power and radio modes) are
detected and traced on the ground (see also ‘Active mode’)
Pipe A conduit mainly used for gases and liquids. Can be made
from metallic and non-metallic materials
Pit Viz. an inspection chamber – often associated with

telecommunications
Radargram The output trace from a GPR unit along a transect. It is made
up of a series of individual point scans to form an apparent
continuous image. Also referred to as a ‘B Scan’
(See ‘Sample interval’)
Sample interval The density at which scans are collected along the line of travel
of the radar (see ‘Radargram’)
Scar A scar on the ground surface indicating where a utility

may have been buried. This is often due to road surface
reinstatement
Search A general term used to describe the process of carrying

out a utility survey
Service The connection from a utility main to a property
Signal generator A device used to generate an electromagnetic signal

that can be induced or directly connected to a conductor;
often referred to as a ‘genny’
Sonde A small self-contained device emitting a signal that can be

inserted, normally using a rod, into a conduit and then traced
at ground level
Survey (utility) The process of carrying out the detection location and
mapping of buried utilities
Survey area The area defined by the client within which the survey is to
be carried out
Time slice A resampled horizontal slice through a 3D cube of GPR data.

If the velocity of propagation is known then this time can be
converted to depth. (also known as C-Scan, Depth Slice and
Horizontal Slice)
Trace The detection of a signal associated with a utility. It is implied

that the line is also marked onto the ground surface
Transmitter See ‘Signal generator’

WORD DEFINITION
Transect A line or swept width along which a search is carried out

– often associated with GPR surveys
Transect interval The space between adjacent EML or GPR transects,

(sometimes referred to as the y-value in GPR surveys)
Trench A temporary hole dug to visually locate and measure

the position a utility
Trench (cable) A permanent linear excavation used to carry a number

of cables. Usually lined sides and covered by a lid
Trench (service) A permanent linear excavation used to carry a number

of utilities. Usually lined sides and covered by a lid
Underground A term used to describe a buried utility as opposed

to overhead
Utility A generic term used to describe the distribution or collection

of a type of service e.g. gas or electricity
UTL Unable to lift – usually referring to manhole covers
UTF Unable to Find – usually referring to manhole covers
UTR Unable to Rod – usually referring to drains and ducting
UTS Unable to Survey – usually referring to manhole covers
UTGA Unable to gain access

13 BIBLIOGRAPHY
AND WEBSITES FOR
FURTHER READING
American Society of Civil Engineers
‘Standard Guideline for the collection and depiction of existing subsurface utility data’
(CI/ASCE 38-02) 2002
ISBN 0-7844-0645-6
Being an Intelligent Client

Author: Richard Groom Publisher: PV Publications Ltd ISBN: 0-9467-7999-6
British Standards Institute

Specification for underground utility detection, verification and location (2014) Publicly Available
Specification 128 : British Standards Institute, London ISBN 978-0-580-79824-5
Available at: http://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030267400
British Standard BS 1710:1984 (1991)

Specification for identification of pipelines and services
(This standard generally applies to above-ground building and process services)
Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES)

http://www.ices.org.uk
Der Gläserne Untergrund (The Transparent Ground)

Author: Andreas Kathage Publisher: Vulkan Verlag Essen ISBN: 978-3-8027-5399-2
http://www.oldenbourg-industrieverlag.de/produkt.php?index=books&gruppe=B&numm
er=53992
European GPR Association (EuroGPR)

http://www.eurogpr.org
Health and Safety Executive

Avoiding Danger from Underground Services HSG47 Third Edition 2014 ISBN 978-0-7176-6584-6
http://www.hse.gov.uk
Highways Authorities & Utilities Committee (HAUC (UK))

http://www.hauc-uk.org.uk
HMSO London
New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 ISBN 0-1054-2291-6

National Underground Assets Group (NUAG)
http://www.nuag.co.uk
National Joint Utilities Group (NJUG)

http://www.njug.org.uk
NJUG Publication Volume 1 Issue 8 29.10.2013

Guidelines on the positioning and colour coding of underground utilities’ apparatus
Ofcom Ground Probing Radar Licence 603010

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/radiocomms/ifi/wtf/#gp_radar
Radiodetection Ltd
‘abc & xyz of locating buried pipes and cables for the beginner and specialist’
Downloadable PDF from: http://en.radiodetection.com/Document_links.asp?sec_id=2726
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Measured Surveys of Land, Buildings and Utility – 3rd Edition November 2014
ISBN 978–1-78321-064-0

APPENDIX 1A
Survey Types (specified by the client) NB The aim of a utility detection survey is
and Quality Levels (achieved by the survey) always to achieve the highest quality level
NB Survey Type (A, B, C, D) is agreed possible within the constraints of the survey
between the client and practitioner – different type, the survey methodology, the ground
survey types may be agreed for different areas conditions at time of survey and the limitations
of the project site, dependent on the nature of the survey equipment.
of the project, the nature of the site and the
NB Every utility detection must use GPR
accuracy required.
and EML, combined with survey of inspection
NB Quality Levels (A, B1, B1P, B2 B2P, B3, B3P, chambers (unless impractical to do so),
B4, C & D) are determined by the practitioner in order to meet the PAS128 specification
as a result of the utility survey and are part
of the deliverables. These Quality Levels
should not be specified as part of the survey
methodology (see Appendix 1b).

Survey type (Establish Quality level Post- Location accuracy Supporting data
with client prior to (Practitioner to processing
Horizontal 1 Vertical 2
survey) determine post
survey)
D Desktop utility QL-D - Undefined Undefined -
records search
C Site QL-C - Undefined Undefined A segment of
reconnaissance utility whose
location is
demonstrated
by visual
reference to
street furniture,
topographical
features or
evidence
of previous
street works
(reinstatement
scar)
B Detection 3 QL-B4 No Undefined Undefined A utility
segment which
is suspected to
exist but has not
been detected
and is therefore
shown as an
assumed route
QL-B3 No ±500mm Undefined Horizontal
(No reliable location only
QL-B3P Yes
depth of the utility
measurement detected by
possible) one of the
geophysical
techniques used
QL-B2 No ±250mm ±40% of Horizontal
or ±40% of detected and vertical
QL-B2P Yes
detected depth depth location of the
whichever is whichever is utility detected
greater greater by one of the
geophysical
techniques
used 4
QL-B1 No ±150mm ±15% of Horizontal
or ±15% of detected and vertical
QL-B1P Yes
detected depth depth location of the
whichever is utility detected
greater by multiple 5
geophysical
techniques used
A Verification QL-A - ±50mm ±25mm Horizontal and
vertical location
of the top and/
or bottom of the
utility. Additional
attrinution is
recorded as
specified in 9.2.5
1
Horizontal location is to the centreline of the utility
2
Vertical location is to the top of the utility
3
For detection, it is a requirement that a minimum of GPR and EML techniques are used (see 8.2.1.1.2)
4
Electronic depth readings using EML equipment are not normally sufficient to achieve a QL-B2 or higher
5
Some utilities can only be detected by one of the existing detection techniques. As a consequence,
such utilities cannot be classified as a QL-B1

APPENDIX 1B
Detection methods NB The survey methodologies increase in
NB The survey methodology (M1, M1P, intensity from M1(P) to M4(P), with M4(P)
M2, M2P, M3, M3P, M4, M4P) is agreed being the most intensive search pattern.
between the client and practitioner – different
methodologies may be agreed for different
areas of the project site, dependent on the
nature of the project, the nature of the site
and the accuracy/coverage required.

Method1 Survey grid/search resolution 2 Quality Typical
(to be levels application
EML 3 GPR Other
determined in achievable (informative)
techniques 4
consultation General Post-
with the processing
client)
M1 Orthogonal Use as No ≤5m survey B1, B2, B3, Used where
search applicable grid B4 the density
transect of services is
M1P Yes B1P, B2P,
at ≤10m typical of an
B3P
intervals undeveloped
and when area
following
a utility
trace, search
transects at
≤5m intervals
M2 Orthogonal Either: No ≤2m survey B1, B2, B3, Used where
search a) ≤2m grid B4 the density
transect at orthogonal; or of services
M2P Yes B1P, B2P,
≤5m intervals b) High density is typical of
B3P
and when array 5 a suburban
following area or where
a utility the utility
trace, search services cross
transects at a boundary of
≤2m intervals a survey area
M3 Orthogonal Either: No ≤1m survey B1, B2, B3, Used where
search a) ≤1m grid B4 the density
transect at orthogonal; or of services is
M3P Yes B1P, B2P,
≤2m intervals b) High density typical of a
B3P
and when array 5 busy urban
following area or for
a utility clearance
trace, search surveys prior
transects at to operations
≤1m intervals such as
borehole/
drilling/
fencing/tree
planting
M4 Orthogonal Either: No ≤0.5m B1, B2, B3, Used where
search a) ≤0.5m survey grid B4 the density
transect at orthogonal; or of services
M4P Yes B1P, B2P,
≤2m intervals b) High density is typical of
B3P
and when array5 a congested
following a city area
utility trace
at ≤0.5m
intervals
NOTE 1 In general the effort increases from M1 to M4 and the addition of post-processing. For areas with
a greater density of utilities or considered high risk by the client, a detection method that has a
higher level of effort should be selected.
NOTE 2 “P” indicates off-site post-processing has been included.
1
It is a requirement that a minimum of GPR and EML techniques are used (see 8.2.1.1.2)
2
The tolerance for orthogonal transect centres and survey grids shall be ±0.1m
3
It is a requirement that passive EML is deployed over the whole survey area and that where an active EML
method can be used, it is used (see 8.2.1.3.2)
4
The transect centre depends on technique used
5
A high density array comprises 100mm or closer antenna separation

APPENDIX 2
Flow chart with advice to clients for By choosing the correct Survey Type,
specifying a survey (or a combination of Survey Types) a high(er)
Below is a copy of Figure 1, the informative quality level and confidence of survey data
flow chart within PAS128 provided by can be achieved. The higher the Survey Type
permission of BSI. (D lowest, A highest), the less exposure to risk
to the project, owner or client.
Consideration should be given as to the
quality level of final survey data required It is suggested that clients speak to the survey
for a particular project. For example: practitioner(s) to ascertain which combination
of Survey Types are best for a particular project.
• Survey Type D (and/or) C is normally used
for project overviews but not recommended It is suggested that after survey delivery, a
for planning or excavations/construction post-survey meeting or virtual meeting (such
a conference call), is undertaken so that client
• Survey Type B is normally used for detailed and practitioner can discuss the survey data/
utility detection surveys by geophysical findings. Within that meeting the survey
methods such as EML and GPR (not accuracy and any complications or further
exhaustive) recommendations to improve the survey
accuracy can be discussed.
• Survey Type A is normally used when
verification by excavation is necessary to
prove the exact position/depth/size/type
of a particular utility.

Figure 1 PAS128 process ﬂowchart (informative)
Start meeting
Agree with client on survey

type to be undertaken
Survey type D Survey type C Survey type B Survey type A

Desktop utility Site reconnaissance Detection Verification
records search
Define known utility Obtain deliverable Obtain deliverables Obtain deliverables

owners within the for survey type D for survey type D, for survey type D
survey area and where available, and, where available,
Undertake on-site survey type C survey type C
Request asset check to validate and/or B
information from utility records Agree with client on
identified utility detection method: Agree with client
owners M1, M1P, M2, M2P, where to excavate/
Mark up and
M3, M3P, M4 or M4P expose utilities
annotate plan(s)
Collate all data with notes based on survey
Undertake
on utility owners type D, C and/or B
detection survey
and their assets deliverables
Deliverable Mark out survey
including quality area, where required
level: QL-C Select verification
Deliverable including
Undertake location techniques
quality level:
QL-D survey of mark out,
including transects Excavate/
expose utility
Post-process,
where required Undertake
location survey
Deliverable including
quality level:
Deliverable
QL-B1, QL-B1P,
including quality
QL-B2, QL-B2P,
level: QL-A
QL-B3, QL-B3P
or QL-B4
Report to client
Yes
Further work required?
No
Survey delivered

APPENDIX 3
Suggested Method of Measurement Section 3 – Levels of Survey describes
The PAS adopts a hierarchical approach to the four Survey Types in more detail.
the Survey Types in recognition that various Appendix 1a and 1b defines the Quality
stages of a project may require different levels Levels and Detection Methodologies.
of detail.
The PAS requires the client and practitioner
Four primary Survey Types can be selected to consult on the Survey Type(s) required and
by the client which can be applied to various the project objectives, scope of supply and
areas of the site to satisfy data quality level, quality level to be specified in tender and/or
budget and health and safety requirements: contract documents.
• Survey Type D – Desktop records search Appendix 3 provides a means of specifying

the scope of supply, Survey Type and a method
• Survey Type C – Site reconnaissance of measurement to enable the Client to
evaluate tender prices on an equal basis.
• Survey Type B – Detection
Options are given to add value to the Survey
• Survey Type A – Verification. Types to benefit from the initial costs incurred
These different surveys represent the level of mobilising the survey.
of effort required to obtain information on An Excel version of this method of
the location of utilities whereby the desktop measurement can be downloaded from
records search requires the least effort and the TSA website for inclusion in tender and/or
verification survey requires the most effort. contract documents.

Summary Scope of Supply The values in each of the individual tables for
Different levels of detail may be required in the different Survey Types should equal the
various areas of the survey site. The individual values in this summary table. The summary
tables for the four surveys types allow the provides an overall cost of the survey and the
client to specify the level of survey and type(s) individual tables of the Survey Types provides
required in various areas of the survey. a detailed cost.
Included
Quantity Rate Total £
in scope
Item
Description Unit
No To be To be To be To be
completed completed completed by completed by
by Client by Client Practitioner Practitioner
1 Total area (m2)
Number of locations
2 no.
/survey areas
Survey Type D
3 Mandatory (m2)
– Desktop utility search 1)
Survey Type C
4 Yes/No (m2)
– Site reconnaissance
Survey Type B
5 Yes/No (m2)
– Detection
Survey Type A Hand dig

6 Qty*
– Verification Yes/No
Vacuum
Qty**
excavation
Note: 1) Survey Type D is a prerequisite for Survey Types C, B and A

2) Quantity of
* Hand dig Trial pits are measured by the meter length where a trench is typically 0.6m wide x1.2m
(max) deep
** Vacuum excavation Trial holes are measured by the number of holes typically 0.3m - 0.4m diameter
and 1.2m (max ) deep

Survey Type D – Desktop Utility Search in this period. An Express Service is offered
A desktop survey uses “request” search by some utility owners to reduce this period
techniques to identify utility owners and which may incur additional cost.
utility data within the survey area. Site
The quality level is QL-D in accordance with
Reconnaissance is not conducted in the search.
Appendix 1a – PAS Table 1 Levels of Survey.
A Survey Type D is a prerequisite before
For further information on Survey Type D,
attending site to carry out Survey Types C,
refer to SECTION 3 – Levels of Survey.
B and A.
The PAS 128 mandatory process is shown
It is recommended a 20-day period be allowed
in regular Upright type and the Options
for obtaining responses from utility owners
to the process are shown in Italic type.
although 100% responses may not be obtained
Item Included To be To be
Description Unit To be
No in scope completed completed
completed
by by
by Client
Practitioner Practitioner
Specify the area for desktop

1 Mandatory (m2)
utility search 1)
Identify known utility owners Included
2 Mandatory Item
within specified area in scope
Request asset Information from Included
3 Mandatory Item
identified utility Owners 2) in scope
Collate all data on utility owners Included
4 Mandatory Item
and their assets 4) in scope
Allow for extra cost for Express
5 Service for asset information from Option Item Yes/No
utility owners
Request asset information to land
6 Option Item Yes/No
adjacent to the survey area 1)
Request asset information from
7 estates department for private Option Item Yes/No
sites. 3)
Request RFID information from
utility owners 5)
Consolidate all utility data
9 within CAD/GIS/BIM to Option Item Yes/No
Client requirements 4)
Note 1) Land adjacent to the survey area may offer information of where utility feeds derive.
The client should specify if the search is to be widened beyond the project area.
Note 2) If any existing utility information provided by Client is older than 90 days, a new desktop
utility search must be conducted.
Note 3) Where a survey takes place on a private site, data may be available that may be confidential.
The Client should give authorization to the Practitioner to make the request for information.
Note 4) A desktop utility search deliverable is a compilation and consolidation of the search results. The
Client should specify if the data is required in digital representation within a CAD/GIS/BIM model.
Note 5) RFID and/or asset tagging information may be available that would not necessarily be revealed
from statutory records.

Survey Type C – Site Reconnaissance Where the utility records match the surface
A site reconnaissance survey comprises a site features, the quality level will be documented
visit to validate the information contained on as QL-C in accordance with PAS 128 Table 1
utility plans obtained from a desktop search. Levels of Survey (see Appendix 1A) Where
The survey will identify visible physical features the utility records do not match the surface
that support the existence of utilities in the features, the quality level will be documented
survey area. Detection equipment is not used as QL-D.
in site reconnaissance survey.
Deliverables will be in accordance with
A Survey Type D is a pre-requisite before SECTION 5 – Deliverables.
attending site.
The PAS 128 mandatory process is shown
For further information on Survey Type C, in regular Upright type and the Options to
refer to SECTION 3 – Levels of Survey. the process are shown in Italic type.
Rate Total £
Item Included To be To be To be
Description Unit completed completed completed
No in Scope
by by by
Client Practitioner Practitioner
Quantity
1 Area of Site Reconnaissance 1) (m2)
Conduct on-site checks to validate Included

2 Mandatory Item
utility information from utility owners in Scope
Mark-up and annotate existing Included
3 Mandatory Item
records provided by utility owners in Scope
Conduct on-site checks to validate
4
utility information provided by other
Option Item Yes/No
sources and mark-up and annotate
the records. 2)
Include photographic evidence to
5 validate utility information and site Option Item Yes/No
environment
Provide written report with
6 consolidated utility data within Option Item Yes/No
CAD/ GIS/BIM to Client
Note 1) The Client must specify the search area. This may not be the entire survey area of the Desktop
Utility Search.
Note 2) If the Client and/or Practitioner obtain utility information from other sources then Mark-up and
Annotation of the checks are Mandatory.

Survey Type B – Detection For further information on detection
A Detection survey uses geophysical methodology, see PAS128 Table 2 (see
techniques to detect and identify utilities Appendix 1b) – Detection Methodology.
within the survey area. A minimum of ground
NOTE: A Survey Type D is a pre-requisite
penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic
before attending site. A Survey Type C – Site
location (EML) techniques are deployed across
Reconnaissance is included in the methodology
the entire survey area where it is practical to do
for Survey Type B – Detection and therefore
so. Different methodologies may be employed
does not have to be conducted independently.
within one site. The site environment may
restrict the use in some areas. The quality level will be documented as QL-B
in accordance with – PAS128 Table 1. Levels of
For further information on Survey Type B,
Survey (see Appendix 1A)
refer to Section 3 – Levels of Survey.
Two effective methodologies are permitted
SECTION 5 – Deliverables.
with GPR. Each is determined by data
quality requirements, cost and speed. GPR The PAS 128 mandatory process is shown
methodology denoted “P” indicates off-site in regular Upright type and the Options to
post-processing of GPR data. The Client must the process are shown in Italic type.
specify the survey methodology to be used
to ensure the quality level of the information
obtained matches the project requirements.

Item Included
Description Unit Quantity Rate Total £
No in Scope
Conduct EML orthogonal
Mandatory
gridded survey in both active
Client to To be To be
and passive modes on entire To be
specify completed completed
survey area 1) completed
methodology by by
Conduct GPR orthogonal by Client
and survey Practitioner Practitioner
gridded survey on entire
area(s)
survey area 1), 2)
Conduct EML survey to
methodology M1 and GPR Option
1 (m2)
survey to methodology M1 Yes/No
without post-processing
1a (m2)
survey to methodology M1P Yes/No
with post-processing
2 (m2)
2a (m2)
3 (m2)
3a (m2)
4 (m2)
4a (m2)
On-site mark out of detected
Option
5 utilities using biodegradable Item
Yes/No
paint 3)
Carry out topographic survey
Option
7 to provide base mapping for Item
Yes/No
utility survey 4)
Report on other features found Option
6 Item
by gridded GPR survey 5) Yes/No
Note 1) An EML and GPR survey on the entire survey area is mandatory where it is practical to do so.
The client and practitioner must consult on the orthogonal search grid and methodology to be
used and in what areas to ensure the data quality level obtained matches the project requirements.
See PAS128 Table 2 – Detection Methodology. (see Appendix 1b)
Note 2) GPR can be instructed without post-processing and/or with post-processing (denoted P) on
discrete survey areas or on the entire survey area depending on the required data quality level.
Note 3) Paint markings from survey methodology may not represent the full extent of the utilities.
The Client must specify if Full Mark out is required and in what areas.
Note 4) The Client must advise if existing Base Mapping will be provided and/or if a topographic survey
is required and to what level of detail.
Note 5) GPR post-processing may identify buried features other than utilities. This requires in-depth
analysis of data with additional cost.

Survey Type A – Verification The quality level will be documented as QL-A
A Verification survey involves the visual in accordance with PAS128 Table 1 Levels of
identification and recording of utilities within Survey (see Appendix 1A)
the survey area at a particular points.
The data is obtained through the opening of SECTION 5 – Deliverables
inspection chambers or service valves and/or
NOTE: A Survey Type D is a prerequisite
excavation methods such as vacuum excavation
before attending site.
or hand digging. The exact locations of
verification by excavation must be specified The PAS mandatory process is shown in regular
by the Client; however the practitioner may Upright type and the Options to the process
provide valuable advice on where these could are shown in Italic type.
be best placed.
For further information on Survey Type A refer

to SECTION 3 – Levels of Survey.
Item Included To be To be To be
Description Unit
No in Scope completed completed completed
by by by
Client Practitioner Practitioner
Conduct Verification survey at
1 Hand Dig Qty*
specific locations 1), 2)
Vacuum
Qty**
Excavation
Conduct Survey Type C – Site
Reconnaissance in discrete
areas where excavation will be
conducted 3)
Conduct Survey Type B –
3
Detection in discrete areas
Option Item Yes/No
where excavation will be
conducted 4)
Conduct reinstatement of
4 Option Qty Yes/No
excavation trial holes 5)
Note 1) If verification by excavation is required, Client and Practitioner should consult on the excavation
methodology and give due consideration to the environmental issues. The exact intervals and
quantity should be specified by the Client.
Note 2) Survey Type D – Desktop Utility Search is a prerequisite before attending site to carry out Survey
Type A – Verification.
Note 3) Client and practitioner should consult on the need for a Site Reconnaissance survey in discrete
area(s) to validate utility information from utility owners.
Note 4) Client and Practitioner should consult on the need for a Detection Survey in discrete area(s) to
validate utility information from utility owners where conflict exists between the Desktop Search
and Site Reconnaissance before verification by excavation is conducted.
Note 5) The Client should advise on the specification and/or the need for reinstatement of excavation
trial holes.
* Hand dig Trial pits are measured by the meter length where a trench is typically 0.6m wide x 1.2m (max)
deep.
** Vacuum excavation Trial holes are measured by the number of holes typically 0.3m - 0.4m diameter and
1.2m (max ) deep.

APPENDIX 4
CAD drawing conventions and layer names and under BS1192:2007 the “role” field also
When preparing CAD drawings, it is best denotes the Author or the Owner of the
practice to adhere to a codified layering information. There is currently no designation
system. It is also important to ensure adherence for a utility mapping surveyor, though there is
to the data interoperability requirements a code for GIS Engineers and Land Surveyors
dictated by Building Information Modelling [G] which is the closest designation, and whilst
working practices. this can be used as a prefix for all topographical
layers generated, we would like to suggest that
The current British Standard for CAD layering for utility related layers, and to differentiate the
within the UK is BS1192:2007. It is this utility surveyor from the topographical surveyor,
standard, together with the guidance presented that the prefix [GU] should be employed.
on the BIM UK website (www.bimuk.co.uk), If required, this prefix could also be used
which has been used to devise the layering to indicate the company that has collected
conventions contained within the TSA CAD the information, through use of a 3 letter
template, available to download from the abbreviation e.g. [GU_TSA].
TSA website. It is recognized that the layers
contained within the CAD template cannot BS1192:2007 encourages the use of Uniclass
be guaranteed to cover all eventualities, codes for the classification element of the layer
and therefore outline guidance is given below name. The uniclass coding system is under
on the naming conventions used in case new constant review and made available on the
layer names need to be devised and added to websites www.cpic.org.uk/uniclass and https://
the basic template. See the BIM UK website toolkit.thenbs.com. Generalised uniclass codes
for more detailed guidance. are included in the table below, however it is
possible to be very specific if required, and
BS1192:2007 allows for the fields shown in the online resources can be used to search for
the table below to be included within any specific codes. If uniclass codes are not desired
layer name. to be used, these should be replaced by the
utility name in the table overleaf.
The “Role” field is a code which indicates the
role held by the creator of the data produced,
Field 1 Field 2 Field 3 Field 4

Role/Discipline Classification/Element Presentation codes Alias
CAD Layer name components as recommended by BS192:2007

The standard codes for presentation as outlined advising on the colours and line-styles to be
in BS1192:2007 are as follows: used in both marking up the detected lines
of utilities onsite, nor for the depiction of
D Dimensions such utilities in drawings. The National Joint
Utilities Group (NJUG) Publication, Volume
H Hatching and Shading
1 Issue 8, ‘Guidelines on the positioning
M Model related elements (M2 or M3 and colour coding of underground utilities’
can represent 2D or 3D models) apparatus’, published 29th October 2013,
provides information on the colours used for
P Plot/paper related elements buried ducts, pipes, cables and marker/warning
tapes. These NJUG guidelines have been
T Text
used as a basis for the schedule below and the
For more complex models, two character codes standardized CAD template produced for use
can be used but the above are the basic set. with PAS128 by the TSA. As most suppliers only
stock seven different colours of spray paint and
The Alias field is for description of the layer. wax crayon (namely black, green, orange, red,
This description is not prescribed but should blue, white and yellow) it is practical to limit the
be kept as short as is functional so that layer on-site mark up to seven colours.
names are kept to a reasonable length. The
main reason for this is that some BIM software Notes
is limited to the amount of characters that
1 Yellow printed out on drawings is low
can be used. Whilst the uniclass codes are
contrast against a white background. If
a descriptive element, they are not easily
photocopied in black and white yellow is
recognizable to most users therefore a more
likely not to reproduce and may not appear
accessible description can be used. This
on the copy.
description can include the name of the asset
owner and the type of utility but should always 2 Black is not an ideal spray paint colour to
contain the quality level of the line segment. use on blacktop and blue can disappear at
In a standard 2D model, the layer name for a night under sodium lighting.
gas supply pipeline owned by National Grid,
detected to quality level B1, by a TSA surveying 3 It is recommended that green is used for
company, could therefore be: marking out unidentified GPR anomalies
and for unknown utilities on drawings.
With Uniclass coding:
GU_TSA-Ss_55_20-M2-NatGridGas_B1 4 When drafting up the results of a survey in
CAD it is recommended the base mapping
Or without Uniclass coding: is greyed out to increase contrast with the
GU_TSA-GAS-M2-NatGridGas_B1 utility lines and so improve clarity.
Or, a simplified version without asset owner: 5 The -XX- signifier in the line type relates to
GU_TSA-GAS-M2-B1 the quality level of the line segment. A gas
pipeline detected to quality level B1 would
Requests have been received from some end
be denoted by a –G-B1- line type whilst
users of utility drawings for line types to be
if the information is from records it would
used that identify the asset owner, particularly
have a -G-D- line type. The layer name
for telecommunications providers. A range of
should also contain information pertaining
these have been included in TSA’s template.
to quality level.
This is not an exhaustive list and there may be a
need to update the template as new providers 6 Telecommunications providers may also
appear or if current providers have been be assigned a line type that indicates
missed out. Recommendations for additions ownership. For example, British Telecom
to the template should be directed to the TSA would be denoted by a -BT-XX- line type,
technical committee. whilst Virgin Media would be -VM-XX-.
If this scheme is used the colour would
Colour codes for ‘on site’ mark up and identify the lines as telecoms, together with
drawing line codes the key indicating the abbreviations used
Despite carrying out extensive enquiries no for the different owners.
published guidance appears to be available

Utility Buried Buried Pipe Buried Marker On Site CAD CAD 2D linetype 3D linetype UNICLASS
Duct Cable systems Mark-up Drawing Line Colour (XX denotes Code
Colour code Quality Level)
Gas Yellow Yellow, yellow N/A Black Yellow Yellow (see 40 –G–XX– Continuous Ss_55_20
with brown stripe legend on Note 1) line
or black with PE pipes
yellow stripe
Water Blue or Blue or Blue with N/A Blue Blue Blue 5 –W–XX– Continuous Ss_55_70
grey brown stripe line
(removable)
Non potable Water N/A Black with green N/A N/A Blue Blue 5 –W–XX– Continuous Ss_55_70
66
stripes (with note) line
Water – fire fighting N/A Black with red N/A N/A Blue Blue (with 5 –W–XX– Continuous Ss_55_70
stripes note) line
Water – for special N/A Blue with brown N/A Blue or Blue Blue (with 5 –W–XX– Continuous Ss_55_70
purposes such as stripes (non- blue/black note) line
contaminated land) removable)
Oil/fuel pipelines N/A Black N/A Various Black (see Black (with 250 –O–XX– Continuous Ss_55_50
Note 2) note) –F–XX– line
Foul & Combined Black Not specified N/A N/A Blue Red-Brown 36 –FD–XX– Continuous Ss_50_30_08_30
Drainage –CD–XX– line Ss_50_30_08_15
Surface Water Black Not specified N/A N/A Blue Light Blue 4 –SD–XX– Continuous Ss_50_30_08_85
Drainage (Cyan) line
Electricity (HV) & (LV) Black or N/A Red or Yellow with Red Red 1 –E–XX– Continuous Ss_70_30
red – with black black and –LV–XX– line Ss_70_30_45
tile red legend –HV–XX– Ss_70_30_35
Telecommunications Grey, N/A Light grey Various White Magenta 6 –T–XX– Continuous Ss_75_10_21
(inc Highways white, or black –FO–XX– line
Authority & green, or as
Motorways) black or Identified
purple (Note 6)
Street Lighting Purple N/A Purple Yellow Red Red 1 –SL–XX– Continuous Ss_70_80_25_70
ISSUE 5
(Includes Motorways) (Scotland) Black or with black line
Orange Orange legend
(Rest UK)
Traffic Control Orange N/A Orange Yellow Orange Orange 30 –TC–XX– Continuous Ss_70_30_45_45
with black line
DECEMBER 2017
legend
Street Furniture Black or N/A Black Yellow Orange Orange 30 –SF–XX– Continuous Ss_70_30_45_45
©TSA
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION
cabling Orange with black line
legend
Unidentified Unknown N/A N/A N/A Green Green 72 --U –XX– Continuous Undefined
Features -by EML --GPR –XX– line
(and/or GPR)
Codes for utility marker posts
Code for legend on marker plates NB Quality level denominations are for all
H = Hydrant SV = Stop Valve parameters of a utility not just depth, as
AV = Air Valve WO = Wash Out Valve defined in PAS128. Depths that are provided
should be considered to indicate the top of
Top number is the nominal pipe diameter the utility unless stated otherwise.
in millimetre (old imperial markers will show
inches). Additional information such as size and material
type of the pipes/ducts or cables should be
Bottom number is the distance to the added as annotations if known
utility from the face of the marker in metres
(old imperial markers will show feet).

APPENDIX 5
Examples of output – the following page
shows an example of the results of a utility
survey using the TSA CAD template.

AN
Y WH
ER
69
ES
T
RE
ET
Station Listing
DISTRICT HEATING
DRAINAGE COMBINED
DRAINAGE FOUL
DRAINAGE SURFACE
DRAINAGE UNIDENTIFIED
ELECTRIC
NOWHE
ELECTRIC LV
ELECTRIC HV
ELECTRIC STREET LIGHTING
GAS
OIL/FUEL PIPELINE
TELECOMS
FIBRE OPTIC
TELECOMS - BT
TELECOMS - VIRGIN MEDIA
TRAFFIC CONTROL
RE ROA
WATER
UNIDENTIFIED UTILITY
D
UNIDENTIFIED CABLES
UNIDENTIFIED EMPTY DUCT
GPR LINEAR FEATURE
GPR AREA ANOMALY
GPR AREA ANOMALY - REBAR
UTILITY CONFIDENCE LEVELS (Listed from High to Low)

(A) HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL POSITION VERIFIED VISUALLY
(Accuracy: Horizontal (±25mm) Vertical(±50mm)
(B1P) HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL POSITION DETECTED BY MULTIPLE METHODS

WITH POST PROCESSING OF GPR DATA
(Estimated Accuracy: ±150mm OR ±15% of detected depth)
(B1) HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL POSITION DETECTED BY MULTIPLE METHODS

(B2P) HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL POSITION DETECTED VIA POST-PROCESSED GPR

(B2) HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL POSITION DETECTED BY A SINGLE METHOD

(B3P) HORIZONTAL POSITION DETECTED VIA POST-PROCESSED GPR

(Estimated Accuracy: ±500mm in the Horizontal - Depth is undefined)
(B3) HORIZONTAL POSITION DETECTED BY A SINGLE METHOD

(Estimated Accuracy: ±500mm in the Horizontal - Depth is undefined)
(C) ROUTE TRANSCRIBED FROM UTILITY ASSET PLANS AND CORRELATED TO

VISUAL INDICATORS AND SURFACE FEATURES (Accuracy Undefined)
(D) ROUTE TRANSCRIBED FROM UTILITY ASSET PLANS (Accuracy Undefined)
Layout Key
ISSUE 5
- --/--/---- --
Rev Date Description Check
TSA_MEMBER_COMPANY_LOGO
NUE
DECEMBER 2017
AVE
ERE
EWH Client
SOM NAME_OF_CLIENT
LOCATION_OF_CLIENT_OFFICE
©TSA
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION
Site SITE_NAME
ADDRESS1
ADDRESS2
POST_CODE
Title
TITLE_OF_SURVEY
TYPE_OF_SURVEY
STILE TL TRAFFIC LIGHT VS VENTILATION SHAFT

FENCE TYPES: M4P - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 2m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 0.5m M4 - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 2m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 0.5m Survey by Drawn by
BS BUS STOP CP CABLE PIT EOT END OF TRACE GP GUIDE POST Lck LOCK GATE MKrT MARKER POST (TELECOM) OHT OVERHEAD CABLE (TELECOM) Psk PENSTOCK SA SURVEY ABANDONED Sti INITIALS INITIALS
BTIC BRITISH TELECOM CHAMBER CpL COPING LEVEL EP ELECTRICITY POLE GPR TRACED BY G.P.R Lrd LADDER MKrWMARKER POST (WATER) OP OUTLET PIPE PV PUMPPIPE (VERTICAL) SB SIGN BOARD Stl STRUCTURE TOP LEVEL TP TELEGRAPH POLE VW VALVE / SLUICE WHEEL AMF ARMCO PCF POST & CHAIN INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY GRID AT 0.5m INTERVALS OR HIGH INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY GRID AT 0.5m INTERVALS. GPR MARK-UP
THIS SURVEY HAS BEEN CARRIED OUT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PAS128 SPECIFICATION FOR
AR ASSUMED ROUTE Catl CATENARY LEVEL Cpsn CAPSTAN ER EARTH ROD Grl GRILLE LH LAMP HOLE MP MILE POST P POST PVC POLYVINYL CHLORIDE Shlt SHELTER (BUS / TRAM) Stp STUMP (TREE) Tpt TRIAL PIT WB WEIGHBRIDGE BWF BARBED WIRE PIF POST & IRON RAIL DENSITY ARRAY. POST PROCESSING OF GPR DATA. ON SITE Check by Date
UNDERGROUND UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION. THE SPECIFICATION ALLOWS FOR A RANGE OF INITIALS DATE
AV AIR VALVE CATV CABLE TV COVER Cpst CAMERA POST EShw EMERGENCY SHOWER GV GAS VALVE LP LAMP POST MS MILE STONE Pb PARK BENCH Pyl PYLON SI SPUN IRON StP STAND PIPE Tr TROUGH WL WATER LEVEL CBF CLOSE BOARDED PRF POST & RAIL TECHNIQUES AND METHODS OF VARYING INTENSITY TO BE DEPLOYED. THE COLOUR CODED M3P - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 2m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 1m M3 - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 2m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 1m
BB BELISHA BEACON CB CONTROL BOX CrL CROWN LEVEL ESP ELECTRICITY SUPPLY POINT Hgt HEIGHT LV LOW VOLTAGE NL NOT LOCATED PB POST BOX Pz PIEZOMETER SL SOFFIT LEVEL StPO STAY POST UTF UNABLE TO FIND WM WATER METER CIF CORRUGATED IRON PWF POST & WIRE SCHEME INDICATES WHERE DIFFERENT SURVEY METHODOLOGIES HAVE BEEN USED ON SITE, AND INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY GRID AT 1m INTERVALS OR HIGH INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY GRID AT 1m INTERVALS. GPR MARK-UP
BD BACKDROP CBlt CONVEYOR BELT CulP CULVERT PIPE Esw ELECTRICAL SWITCH Hrl HANDRAIL MgP MOORING POST NP NAME PLATE PCsg PEDESTRIAN CROSSING RE RODDING EYE SltL SILT LEVEL (TOP) StW STAY WIRE UTGA UNABLE TO GAIN ACCESS WO WASH OUT VALVE CLF CHAIN LINK SPF STEEL PALLISADE THE LIST BELOW IDENTIFIES EQUIPMENT USED TO OBTAIN THE SURVEY RESULTS. Scale [A0 Sheet] DWG Reference/number* Status
DENSITY ARRAY. POST PROCESSING OF GPR DATA. ON SITE.
Bdl BED LEVEL CC COAL CHUTE CWM CABLE WINDING MACHINERY FB FOOTBRIDGE HV HIGH VOLTAGE mH METERS HIGH OSA OUTSIDE SURVEY AREA PE POLYETHYLENE RG RAIN GAUGE SMP SETTLEMENT MONITORING PNT SV STOP VALVE UTF UNABLE TO LIFT Wr WEIR CPF CHESTNUT PALING WMF WIRE MESH NB: PLEASE SEE ACCOMPANYING REPORT FOR FULL DETAILS.
BH BOREHOLE UTR UNABLE TO ROD WrL WEIR LEVEL M2P - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 5m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 2m M2 - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 5m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 2m
CCrd CATTLE GRID d DEPTH FH FIRE HYDRANT IC INSPECTION CHAMBER Mhcy MACHINERY OSBMO.S BENCH MARK PF PITCH FIBER RMP RESERVOIR MONITORING PNT SiL SIGNAL LOST SVP SOIL VENT PIPE IRF IRON RAILING SCALE ID_NUMBER FINAL
BHch BASEMENT HATCH COVER WrP WEIR PLATE (TOP) INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY GRID AT 2m INTERVALS OR HIGH INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY GRID AT 2m INTERVALS. GPR MARK-UP
ChL CHANNEL LEVEL DIA DIAMETER FL FLOOR LEVEL IL INVERT LEVEL MH MANHOLE OGP OVERGROUND PIPE PI PILE RP REFLECTOR POST SP SIGN POST TBM TEMPORARY BENCH MARK UTS UNABLE TO SURVEY IWF INTERWOVEN
Bin LITTER / GRIT SALT BIN IP INLET PIPE WWP WASTE WATER PIPE DENSITY ARRAY. POST PROCESSING OF GPR DATA. ON SITE.
Chy CHIMNEY DS DIRECTION SIGN FS FLAG STAFF/ POLE MKr MARKER POST OHCuO/H CABLE (UNIDENTIFIED) Pir MOVEMENT DETECTOR RS ROAD SIGN SPil SHEET PILING TCB TELEPHONE CALL BOX UTT UNABLE TO TRACE
BL BASEMENT LIGHT CI CAST IRON EIC ELECTRIC INSPECTION COVER Gy GULLY JN JUNCTION MKrE MARKER POST (ELECTRIC) OHE OVERHEAD CABLE (ELECTRIC) Pmd PLANT MOTOR DRIVE RSP RAILWAY SIGNAL POST Spr SPRING TEL TELECOM CHAMBER COVER VC VITREOUS CLAY M1P - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 10m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 5m M1 - EML SEARCH TRANSECT AT 10m INTERVALS - TRACED AT 5m Project/Job No Revision
DUCT FORMATION
Bql BOLLARD CL COVER LEVEL EoC EDGE OF CANOPY G= GIRTH KO KERB OUTLET MKrG MARKER POST (GAS) OHG OVERHEAD GANTRY PP PETROL / DIESEL PUMP RWP RAIN WATER PIPE SPt SAMPLING POINT TRF TAKEN FROM RECORDS VP VENT PIPE INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY AS APPROPRIATE. POST PROCESSING INTERVALS. GPR SURVEY AS APPROPRIATE. GPR MARK-UP ON ID_NUMBER
BP BOUNDARY POST CO CONCRETE EOR END OF RECORDS GIP GAS INLET PIPE Lby LIFEBOUY MKrR MARKER POST (RAILWAY) OHP OVERHEAD PIPE PR PIPE RISER S SPREAD ST STOP TAP Thl THRESHOLD LEVEL VR VAPOUR RECOVERY OF GPR DATA. SITE
REV_ID
APPENDIX 6
Detection Capabilities of Different Techniques
Equipment Mode (EM)/ Depth Range Depth Minimum Size Notes

Frequency Determination
(GPR)
Electromagnetic Passive Up to 3m No N/A Depth depends on
locators and signal on service and
signal generators length of service
May not detect well

balanced electricity cables
Induction Up to 3m Yes N/A Does not work well in
(+/-5% of depth congested environments.
under normal Signal may jump to nearby
conditions) services
Connection Up to 10m Yes N/A Signal may jump to nearby

depending on (+/-5% of depth services
signal strength under normal
conditions)
Sewer Sonde Up to 15m Yes Depends on Generally ducts and
depending on (+/-5% of depth Sonde type gravity pipes only. Other
Sonde type under normal applications possible
conditions) Smallest
Sonde
diameter
15mm
Ground 100MHz Up to 5m Yes 0.5m These numbers are
Penetrating (+/-10% approximate and
Radar in normal dependent on
conditions ground conditions
It is usually possible to
250MHz Up to 3m Yes 0.3m detect a pipe with a
(+/-10% ) diameter 10% or larger
than the cover depth
500MHz Up to 2m Yes 0.2m
(+/-10% ) Multichannel arrays can
1000MHz Up to 1m Yes 0.1m often provide better
(+/-10% ) detection capabilities than
single channel systems
Ground Vertical dipole Up to 6m No 0.7m Suitable for detection of

Conductivity underground obstructions
(Geonics EM31) and large services

GPR vertical resolution for different antenna frequencies and soil conditions
Antenna Medium Air Concrete Dry Soil Damp Wet Soil

Frequency Soil
MHz
Er (dielectric constant) 1 7 9 14 25
Velocity m/nsec 0.3 0.12 0.1 0.08 0.06
25 12.00 4.80 4.00 3.20 2.40
3.00 1.20 1.00 0.80 0.60
50 6.00 2.40 2.00 1.60 1.20

1.50 0.60 0.50 0.40 0.30
100 3.00 1.20 1.00 0.80 0.60

0.75 0.30 0.25 0.20 0.15
200 1.50 0.60 0.50 0.40 0.30

0.38 0.15 0.13 0.10 0.08
400 0.75 0.30 0.25 0.20 0.15

0.19 0.08 0.06 0.05 0.04
900 0.33 0.13 0.11 0.09 0.07

0.08 0.03 0.03 0.02 0.02
1000 0.30 0.12 0.10 0.08 0.06

0.08 0.03 0.03 0.02 0.02
1500 0.20 0.08 0.07 0.05 0.04

0.05 0.02 0.02 0.01 0.01
Key The wavelength of the GPR signal is

determined by the material velocity and
Wavelength = velocity/frequency antenna frequency, and the wavelength
Resolution = wavelength/4 determines the resolution. The highest
resolution attainable is generally estimated as
The above table provides an assessment of the the wavelength divided by 4. The resolution is
capabilities of different frequency GPR systems the smallest sized object that can be identified
in different mediums. by the GPR at the various frequencies. It can
The dielectric constant is a measure of the be seen that the resolution attainable gets
physical properties of the material which better with higher frequencies, but it can also
dictates how fast the electromagnetic be seen that the resolution attainable is also
energy can propagate through the material affected by the type of material that the GPR
(as measured by the velocity of the signal). is imaging. This effect Is particularly important
at lower frequencies, however it must also
be remembered that penetration depth will
decrease in wetter soils.

APPENDIX 7
Policy on the use of GPR in utility detection multichannel high density arrays, cannot be
and mapping interrogated in real time and therefore the use
of processing software is essential to output
1.1 Survey strategies data that can be readily interpreted.
In theory, there are two basic (GPR) survey
approaches for the detection of buried utilities, In the latter case, the radar data is interrogated
namely: by the field surveyor during data collection and
the lines of utilities are marked on the ground
– Off-site interpretation whereby data is for later topographic survey and incorporation
collected through the use of an orthogonal into a CAD or similar digital model, such as
grid of survey transects. This data is then BIM or GIS.
processed and interrogated back in an
office environment; and In reality, these two apparently radically
different approaches extend into a range
– On-site interpretation where the radar data of survey strategies, based primarily on one
is interrogated by the field surveyor during or the other of these two approaches.
data collection.
For all survey strategies, the density of the
N.B. High density array systems employ survey data collected has a direct effect on
multiple antennas arranged orthogonally within the likelihood of detection. The less dense the
one array. These systems can collect three data set, the greater the risk of non-detection
dimensional data whilst only surveying transects or misunderstanding the configuration of
in one direction. However, the basic principles complex utilities.
are essentially the same as for collecting data
on an orthogonal grid. 1.1.1 Advantages of off-site interpretation
N.B. The BSI PAS128 Specification for – This approach offers an increased potential
underground utility detection, verification to resolve multiple targets which is of
and location, published in the UK in 2014, increasing importance in urban contexts.
distinguishes between these two methods
– Quality control, in terms of probability
of data capture through use of the term
of detection can be appraised in a more
post-processing. It proscribes a range of
rigorous manner.
methodologies for data collection based
upon the intervals between survey transects, – Data can be re-interrogated at different
and those methodologies employing post- stages within the process to obtain
processing of data are suffixed by the letter [P]. additional information or to re-visit
Quality or confidence ratings awarded to the the dataset at a later date in light of
detected utility routes are also distinguished new information.
by the [P] suffix when post-processing of GPR
data has been used. – The data can be retained within the site
archive, and allows an audit trail to be
In the former case, the lines of utilities are established. This can provide protection
established through the use of data processing for both Client and Contractor.
software and incorporated into final CAD
drawings. Some GPR systems, such as

– This strategy allows the use of different site to another depending on the object(s) of
grades of personnel to collect the data investigation. It is therefore important to adopt
on site and to interpret the data in the an approach which recognises the risk and
office (or other environment), although outcomes of non-detection within the context
this may not always be appropriate. of each individual survey.
While recognising that it may not be either

1.1.2 Advantages of on-site interpretation
practical, or, possibly, cost effective to adopt
– Interpretation in-situ limits the cost of rigorous full area coverage with off-site post-
the survey. processing in all cases, it is essential for both
the GPR survey provider and the survey client
– This method also allows the detection
to be aware of the potential risks of curtailment.
of utilities within their context at the
The important underlying principle of the
time of the survey.
survey method adopted should be to set out
– This approach should minimise potential the level of service and any inherent risks
loss of location information. resulting from that method. For this reason,
some members may choose to offer a
– The operator is motivated to monitor tiered service.
data quality during the survey.
The European GPR Association also recognises
1.1.3 Disadvantages of off-site interpretation that survey clients may tend to focus on
the cost of the survey at the expense of the
– This approach potentially involves a greater
potential risks of the survey method. There is
input of time both in data collection and
a need for good detailed technical advice to
in post survey processing and hence is
those commissioning a GPR survey. EuroGPR
potentially more costly.
will co-operate with The Survey Association
– Personnel interpreting the data may and other professional bodies who also interact
not be familiar with the nature of the with our client groups in order to draw up and
site and the environmental conditions distribute this advice.
experienced during data collection,
It is essential that the GPR survey provider
which may lead to deficiencies in some
is capable of demonstrating professional
aspects of interpretation.
competence. The Association expects that
its members will be capable of justifying their
1.1.4 Disadvantages of on-site interpretation approach to the survey. They should also be
– It is difficult to ensure all utilities are capable of substantiating any technical claims
detected reliably in a complex environment that they make for equipment or specialist
containing multiple services. software by demonstration or other appropriate
means. With continued expansion in the
– There is a risk of misinterpretation in required use of GPR there will be an increase in
a complex environment containing the number of people unfamiliar with the GPR
multiple utilities. technique and its technical limitations. This can
be especially important in the field of utility
– There is a potential for loss of quality
detection where unrealistic expectations may
control which is heavily dependent upon
be held in the absence of professional advice
the experience of the GPR surveyor.
and guidance. EuroGPR members should
– Unless data is recorded as a back-up there provide this guidance wherever possible and
is no audit trail whereby data can be re- seek to inform and educate commissioning
interrogated in light of new information. clients on the capabilities of the technique,
to ensure that the method is not brought
1.2 Guidance to EuroGPR Members into disrepute.
The European GPR Association emphasises Date Approved: 5th March 2009,
the importance of adequate data collection, Date Revised: 13th October 2017
considered in regard to the target of the (European GPR Committee)
survey. Survey parameters such as sampling
intervals and area coverage will vary from one

Off-site interpretation/post-processing On-site interpretation
Advantages Advantages
– Increased potential to resolve multiple – Limits the cost

targets and higher detection rates
– Detection of utilities within their context
– More Rigorous Quality control
– Minimises potential for loss of location
– Data can be re-interrogated information.
– Allows a data audit trail, protecting – Motivation to monitor data quality

both Client and Contractor
– Allows different personnel to collect

and interpret data
Off-site interpretation/post-processing On-site interpretation

Disadvantages Disadvantages
– Potential for greater time and cost – Difficult to ensure reliable detection
in complex environments
– Personnel conducting interpretation may
have little knowledge of site conditions – Risk of misinterpretation
in complex environments
– Quality is dependent on operator
– Data is not recorded for later use
– No audit trail
Brief outline of advantages and disadvantages of differing survey approaches
Version History
Ver. No. Description Drafted By Approved By Publication Date

Version 1 Policy on use of GPR in Utility Erica Utsi General Meeting 05/03/2009
Detection and Mapping
Version 2 Policy on use of GPR in Utility Sam Roberts EuroGPR 16/10/17
Detection and Mapping Committee

APPENDIX 8
Professional Indemnity Insurance • In the event of a problem, greater clarity
Considerations regarding type of work undertaken and
It is believed that utilising the methodologies clear instructions from the client regarding
outlined in the guidance notes and particularly the same assist in bringing clarity to the
compliance with the PAS128 methodology duties of the surveyor in the performance
agreed with the client, will have a positive of their appointment, and identifying
impact on the utilities survey, both in avoiding whether there have been any short
problems and dealing with them if they should comings in that performance
arise.
• It ensures that a written agreement is drawn
• A well-executed utilities survey is less likely up between the surveyor and the client
to attract a problem
• The written agreement and greater clarity
• Full understanding between the parties can assist in avoiding problems, or at worst,
regarding the scope and limitations prevent ambiguity from unnecessarily
of the utilities survey is likely to avoid lengthening a claim and incurring costs
problems due to perceived short comings as a result, to the benefit of both sides
or misunderstandings regarding what
• The surveyor must ensure that their
is possible. A pre-survey meeting with
administrative procedures (terms of business
the client, in compliance with PAS128,
agreements, recorded instructions including
provides opportunity to clarify limitations of
verbal communications, etc) are clear and
technology and methodology and,
unambiguous
• Post survey meeting with the client,
• Above all survey deliverables must be
in compliance with PAS128, provides
demonstrable (i.e. provable) as this area
opportunity for the practitioner to highlight
will be under intense scrutiny and question
areas of concern, the client to understand
in the event of a claim. PAS128 advocates
the limitations of the deliverables and to
the recording of certain utility detection
raise project specific issues. This meeting
data and the associated locations as an
also allows for agreement regarding any
audit trail of the survey work undertaken.
further survey or verification work to assist
with resolving issues.
• Giving the client the choice of survey

methodology enables greater client
understanding and buy in to the results
of the survey

Clients should be aware of the following NB £XXXXX should be equal to the limit
Disclaimer (echoing considerations set out you purchase under your existing PI policy
earlier in the guidance notes): Please note
that not all buried pipes, cables and Reference should be made to the Unfair
ducts can be detected and mapped in Contract Terms Act 1977 in setting the
consideration of their depth, location, applicable limit within the clause and the
material type, geology and proximity to reasonableness of the same to the sums
other utilities. Even an appropriate and involved. A court may set aside a limitation
professionally executed survey may not provision if they deem it to be unreasonable.
be able to achieve a 100% detection rate.
Clients should ensure that the surveyor carries
Where an area of utilities is likely to affect
adequate professional indemnity insurance,
client project requirements, it is strongly
so that funds are available to meet any losses
recommended that a PAS128 Quality Level
should there be a problem, and that the period
A verification survey is carried out.
of cover extends to at least 6 years from date
of survey. Whilst the purchase of professional
IMPORTANT indemnity insurance is not mandatory for the
Utilities surveyors should be aware that they land surveyor’s profession, clients of members
are not relieved of their duty of care to their of The Survey Association have the reassurance
client and compliance with PAS128 cannot that this organisation makes purchase of
confer immunity from legal obligations. professional indemnity insurance mandatory
and has an exclusive member arrangement
Appropriate advice would still need to be through Lockton Professions.
given, even if the client is insistent on a
particular level of utilities survey, and no 13th of January 2015
matter what disclaimers are used surveyors
may deem it appropriate to limit their liability. TSA acknowledge with thanks this note
from Adam Axtell-Powell
An appropriate clause may be inserted into
the surveyor’s contracts: (for example) Adam Axtell-Powell
Our Liability under this agreement shall be Senior Broker – Assistant Vice President
limited to << £XXXX >> for any one claim Lockton Companies LLP North Quay Temple
or in the aggregate Back Bristol BS1 6FL

APPENDIX 9
The primary author of the original guide was Peter Barker. The 5th issue has been subject to an
extensive rewrite to align it with the PAS128 specification. This work has been the product of an
industry wide collaboration between a large number of consultees. The editing and drafting of
this document has been overseen by Peter Barker, Mike Page and Sam Roberts. It was developed
by The Survey Association Technical Committee led by Mike Hopkins under the Chairmanship of
Adam Bradley. We would like to thank all members of the Technical Committee and TSA Council
for their contribution.
Consultees and Acknowledgements

An early draft of the original guide was widely distributed to many organisations associated
with the utility survey industry. Of these, 17 companies and organisations responded with
constructive comments, some of them at some length. Many of these consultees have also
contributed to the 5th edition with text and technical information within their areas of expertise.
A list of these consultees is given below. Our thanks go to all of them for their time and thought.
It is much appreciated.
Particular thanks is due to Mark Dawson of the Health and Safety Executive for his input and
to RICS and CICES.
TSA would also like to thank BSI for the permission to reproduce tables and charts contained
within the PAS128 specification document.
Consultees for Fifth Issue

Giovanni Alli Nigel Knowles
Adam Axtell-Powell Mike Langton
Pete Bevils James Lewis
Jonathon Bogan Guido Manacorda
Nadia Boukhelifa Graham Mills
Gerry Bowditch Mike Page
Samantha Burton Martin Penney
Mike Bushell Martin Shaw
Peter Crouch Craig Simmonds
Dr Martin Cullen Luke Steadman
Jes Galtress Alan Thunhurst
Ray Hanney Erica Utsi
Jeremy Haigh Steve Walker
Jo House David Watterston
Alan Jones Ian Worsfold

The Survey Association is also grateful to the following manufacturers, survey practitioners
and training establishments for the use of the images illustrating various utility detection
equipment and survey practices in this document and previous incarnations:
3D Radar, Construction Skills Training Academy, C Scope International Ltd, GSSI, IDS, Malå
Geoscience, Met Consultancy Group, MK Surveys, Murphy Surveys, Pipehawk Radiodection Ltd,
Radiodetection, Technics Group and Utsi Electronics
Document Revision History

Issue 1 November 2009 Original document
Issue 2 June 2010 Addition of Appendix 3
Issue 3 March 2011 Change of title to ‘The Essential Guide
to Utility Surveys’ and addition of revision history
Issue 4 October 2011 Addition of Appendix 2 and minor additions
to Section 15
Issue 5 December 2017 Major redraft to align with PAS128

The Survey Association
Northgate Business Centre
38 Northgate Newark-on-Trent
Nottinghamshire NG24 1EZ
Tel 01636 642 840
www.tsa-uk.org.uk

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THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE

DETAILED GUIDANCE NOTES

ISSUE 5 DECEMBER 2017 ©TSA

2 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

3 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

• The safety of the workforce and public

4 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

5 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

6 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

The attached tables (see Appendix 6) are • An understanding of utility drawings

7 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

2.1 Electromagnetic Location (EML)

Within these two modes are various methods

NB Reliability and achievable accuracies using 2.1.1 Direct connection

8 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

NB The more sophisticated electromagnetic 2.1.3 Sonde

9 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

A misidentification could have serious

NB As more water and gas pipes are being

10 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

11 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

12 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

13 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

14 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

15 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

b. Magnetics More often used by total stations for measuring

16 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

Real time kinetic (RTK) GPS/GNSS systems

17 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

Survey Name (and scope) Confidence in Position

Survey Type D Desktop Records Search Low

Survey Type C Site Reconnaissance Low-Med

Survey Type B Detection survey Med-High

Survey Type A Veriﬁcation survey High (absolute position)

18 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

19 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

For details on deliverables please see

20 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

21 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

Showing Utility detection taking place

22 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

23 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

24 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

25 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

26 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

Any intrusive work should be carried out in

The reinstatement of the trial hole might be

27 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

28 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

29 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

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If site mark-up is commissioned for the purpose

NB Section 12 of this document addresses

5.5 Survey Type A deliverables

33 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

NB Expedited searches do not generally A typical programme should include the

34 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

• Submission of final approved drawings.

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35 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PAS128:2014 UTILITY DETECTION, VERIFICATION & LOCATION

• Manual handling when lifting covers

• Hazards associated with underground

• Protecting the public (e.g. pedestrians,

• Appropriate training of staff. Competent

• Asbestos – particularly in old industrial

10.5 Archaeological Sites and Historical

• Northern Ireland Environment Agency

As this is a highly specialised area of utility • Level 2 Diploma – Utilities Mapping

Fibre Optic A telecommunication line using optical fibres for the

Geophysics The measurement of physical properties of the ground.

GPR Ground Penetrating Radar (also Ground Probing Radar)

GPS Global Positioning System

Guidance notes A document giving guidance to those wishing to commission

Line code A means of labelling a utility line on a drawing to show its

Locator An electro-magnetic device for locating buried metal

Main The principal utility conveying liquid, gas, telecommunications

Network A complex system of connected utilities – either of one or

Node An identifiable point on a network. This may be an access

Notation A symbol representing a line type (see Appendix 4)

Overhead Common usage describing the position of a utility if not buried

Passive mode A term applied to electromagnetic locator surveying where

Pit Viz. an inspection chamber – often associated with

Scar A scar on the ground surface indicating where a utility

Search A general term used to describe the process of carrying

Signal generator A device used to generate an electromagnetic signal

Sonde A small self-contained device emitting a signal that can be