Utility Mapping Course

In association with Sygma Solutions Ltd

Course Agenda

Day 1

• Overview of utility networks – Operatives will learn about utility networks i.e. “from
  power station to plug”. Explanation on how electricity/gas/water/communication etc.,
  gets to our homes/businesses. Different cable/pipe types, materials, connectivity etc.
  Classroom.
• Surveying Methodology & Types – How to undertake a typical utility survey, where to
  start and why, incorporating PAS 128 process flowchart & TSA Guidance Notes for
  Utility Surveys – Classroom.
• Utility (STAT’s) Plans – Conventions, variations, abbreviations & meanings –
  Operatives will study a wide variety of different plans. PAS 128 Survey Type D will be
  discussed – Classroom.
• Locating without a locator – Operatives will draw the assumed route of buried services
  onto a blank base plan & compare their findings with STATs plans – Site/Classroom.

Day 2

• Operatives will undertake a PAS 128 Survey Type C Site Reconnaissance/TSA Utility
  Survey Level 2 – Site/Classroom
• Basic Electrical Theory – Operatives will learn about electrical circuits with a “back to
  basics” practical approach using bulbs, wires, batteries, magnets etc – Classroom.
• Electromagnetic (EM) Theory – Understanding how an EM locator works, how to and
  where to apply a signal, limitations etc – Classroom
• Legislation/Health & Safety requirements/implications – Very brief overview of HSG47
  Classroom.

Day 3

• Radiodetection RD4000/8000, Vivax v-Loc Pro specific information – Understanding
  correct use/application of different frequencies, distorted magnetic fields, depth,
  current, Current Direction CD (Signal Direction SD), deep sonde location technique,
  Passive signals/limitations etc – Classroom.
• Operatives will learn PAS 128 Detection Methods (Normative) Methods M1 – M4
  EML/TSA Survey Level 3 EML – Classroom/Site.
• Radiodetection RD4000/8000, Vivax v-Loc Pro Operation – Operatives will use EML
  in active & passive modes to locate buried services at the same survey site to allow
  comparison between “Locating without a locator”, Stats Plans and actual findings –
  Site.

Day 4

• Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Theory – Operatives will learn the theory of how
  GPR works, what the settings & controls do, different ground conditions and view
  “real world” examples – Classroom.
• Operatives will learn PAS 128 Detection Methods (Normative) Methods M1 – M4
  EML/TSA Survey Level 3 GPR (Non Post Processing) – Classroom/Site.
• Ground Penetrating Radar Operation – Operatives will use the GPR to locate a variety
  of buried utilities in different situations – Site.

Day 5

• Practical Operational Test – Two man team to survey small site area without STATs
  plans but using all methods learned including – “Locating without a locator”, Surveying
  Methodology, RD4000/8000/v-Loc Pro & GPR, providing rough sketch of locations &
  depths. Operatives will show compliance with PAS 128 indicating quality level B1 – B4
  (non post processing).
• Use of equipment and methodologies will be observed and proof of location will be
  demonstrated to the examiner(s). Any buried utilities not located which the
  examiner(s) can prove was locatable will equate to a 5% reduction for each
  occurrence in overall exam score – Site.
• Written Exam – Operatives will sit a written exam under exam conditions. The exam
  will include a combination of graphical and written questions – An overall pass mark of
  70% is required to successfully complete the course – Classroom.
  Course requirements:
• Appropriate PPE for working in quiet roads & footpaths.
• Specific Electromagnetic (EM/EML) &/or GPR equipment as required (Radiodetection
  RD4000/8000, Vivax v-Loc Pro & Mala Easy Locator will available for operatives to
  use on site).
• Operatives may prefer to use their own/other manufacturer’s equipment,
  please ensure they bring this equipment with them.

Additional:

Attendees can take the Level 3 certificate in Utility Mapping and Surveying (QCF) alongside this (this is an additional fee for non-TSA Members).

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: Utility Mapping Sygma Five Day Course

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions