Landmark welcomes PAS 128 specification to standardise underground utility detection, verification and location

The new Specification for Underground Utility Detection, Verification and Location has been introduced to provide consistent and clear best practice in detecting underground utilities. 

The specification, which the British Standards Institution has termed PAS 128:2014, aims to set clear provisions for those operating in this space and will ultimately lead to more effective planning and safer execution of ground/civil works, street excavations and utility-based activities.

With no agreed or published UK standards related to the detection, verification or location of underground services, PAS 128 aims to provide clarity in the service provided and methods employed, as well as consistency in the approach to data capture

As part of PAS 128, four levels of survey types have been defined: (survey type D) desktop utility records search, whereby utilities are identified through the analysis of paper and digital records or reports, such as those available from Landmark; (survey type C) site reconnaissance, where existing records are validated by the visual inspection of physical evidence observed during a site visit; (survey type B) detection, where utilities are detected using geophysical techniques; and (survey type A) verification, where underground services are located via a manhole, inspection chamber or through excavation.

Piers Edgell, Senior Account Manager at Landmark Information Group said: “With no formal standardisation in place for the detection, verification or location of underground utilities, we fully welcome PAS 128 and encourage our customers that operate in the construction, engineering and built environment sector to contact the BSI to obtain a copy of the standard. The desktop utility search reports from Landmark form the basis of the detection process outlined in PAS 128, and we would be happy to talk through how the data can help you achieve a PAS compliant survey. By doing so, it will help avoid possible project delays, injuries or service disruption by having access to the very latest utility data at the outset.”

To access a copy of the BSI PAS 128:2014 report, click here.

Otherwise, for more information about the Utilities Report available from Landmark, telephone 0844 844 9952, email customerservice@envirocheck.co.uk or visit www.envirocheck.co.uk/products/utilities/utilities_report/