Utility locating essentials: A list of locator best practices

Article contributed by McLaughlin. 

Locating is one of the most important steps of any utility project. Consider this list of locating best practices before your next underground project.

1. Call 811: While this is an industry best practice, it’s also the law in many places. Usually the first step on any job, contractors simply call the national phone number and inform the operator where they intend to dig. That information is then routed to the local One Call center, and utility companies will typically send technicians out to mark underground utilities within a couple days.
2. Set the record straight: 811 call center services are a great starting point, but it shouldn’t be your only effort in locating utilities on a jobsite. Contractors should also consult the following for utility information:
   • Jobsite blueprints
   • Construction maps
   • Alignment sheets
   • Any other documents that may reveal previously undetected utility lines
3. Take a closer look: A thorough investigation of the jobsite should also take place before any digging or drilling begins. Look for any evidence of local or unmarked utilities such as ground disturbances, utility risers or pavement repairs. Ask the property owner about wells on site. Utility companies usually have no knowledge of private wells, and therefore will not mark them or water lines.
4. Now you’re talking: Any project that involves multiple stakeholders requires ongoing and effective communication between all parties. Contractors need to share information obtained from the One Call center with facility or jobsite owners. Utility locators should also establish a clear and consistent process for communication with other crew members working on the project.
5. Report back: Properly documenting utility line findings is critical to helping maintain public safety — technicians should always document their findings after a locate request. This will help guide the geography of current and future projects. Utility owners should be notified of any unmarked lines that are discovered.
6. Consider quality: The market is full of electronic locators, but the conditions of your particular jobsite should help dictate the locator you choose. The quality of the locator will have an impact on locating efficiency and safety. A reliable utility locator should be easy to use and accurate, and its features — such as gain and depth estimators — should be customizable to your jobsite needs.
7. Make your mark: Once lines are located, it’s crucial that technicians identify them using temporary markings such as stakes, flags or signs. Make sure the identifiers are included in your project documentation as well. Any utilities that are close to the proposed excavation or bore must be exposed by hand-digging or potholing to visually confirm their location.

Your local Vermeer dealer can help you determine which electronic locator is best for your crew.

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