Finding buried cables in New Zealand can be challenging, but with the right resources and tools, you can locate them accurately. Whether you're planning a construction project or landscaping your property, knowing the location of underground utilities is essential to avoid costly damages and ensure safety. Here are some tips on how to locate buried cables in New Zealand.
Step 1: Perform an online search
Start with data available online. Utility Finder is a good place to start your search as we provide an easy to use map that will give you any publicly available data right away. Some utility providers offer their own online services which feed in to Utility Finder, such as Vector, FirstGas, Transpower & many local councils.
Step 2: Notify utility providers
After you've gathered information online, it's essential to also contact any utility providers you know of as they each need information about your project and will provide you with the most accurate information and guidance.
Services like beforeUdig can be useful for this piece as they notify a large number of utility providers at once. However not all utility providers are on beforeUdig so it's best to do some research when notifying.
Remember to always request plans and comply with any investigation requirements given to you by relevant utility companies before proceeding with any work. Failing to do so could result in damage to critical infrastructure, pose serious risks to your safety and cost significant amounts of your money to repair.
Step 3: Identify surface features
After a desktop search, look for surface features that indicate the best known location of buried cables. Manhole covers, utility poles, and transformer boxes are common indicators of underground utility lines. Also keep an eye out for signs, such as warning tapes or flags that mark the presence of buried cables.
Another way to identify buried cables is to look for scarring or discoloration on the ground. These marks can indicate the presence of underground utilities, including cables. If you notice any irregularities on the surface, it's best to proceed with caution and verify the location of buried cables before digging.
Step 4: Conduct a non-invasive search
This step involves using non-invasive methods to detect buried cables without disturbing the ground. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locators are common tools used for this purpose.
GPR uses radar pulses to image the subsurface and detect buried cables. It's a non-destructive method that provides real-time data on the location and depth of underground utilities. On the other hand, electromagnetic locators use electromagnetic fields to detect buried cables. These devices are portable and easy to use, making them ideal for locating buried cables quickly and accurately.
It's important to note that these methods require specialized training and expertise to operate effectively. If you're not familiar with GPR or electromagnetic locators, consider hiring a professional utility locator to assist you with your search.
Step 5: Conduct an invasive search
If you're unable to locate buried cables using non-invasive methods, you may need to conduct an invasive search. This involves digging test holes or trenches to physically locate buried cables. Before proceeding with any invasive search, it's essential to obtain permission from the utility providers and local authorities.
When digging test holes or trenches, it's crucial to follow safe excavation practices and use proper protective equipment. Be mindful of the depth and location of buried cables to avoid damaging them during the excavation process.
Hydro excavation can be a useful method for this type of search. It uses pressurized water to break up the soil and vacuum it out, allowing for precise excavation without damaging buried cables.
At this stage, it's also important to document your findings and update records accordingly. This information will be valuable for future projects and maintenance activities.
Conclusion
Locating buried cables in New Zealand requires a combination of online research, surface inspection, and non-invasive and invasive search methods. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can accurately locate buried cables and avoid costly damages. Remember to always prioritize safety and obtain permission from utility providers before conducting any excavation work.
If you need assistance with locating buried cables or other underground utilities, consider hiring a professional utility locator. These experts have the knowledge and equipment to detect buried cables accurately and will guide you towards a safe excavation process.
Getting investigations wrong can be costly or even deadly, so always proceed with caution and make sure you follow all these steps before you start work.