Utility networks across the UK are complex systems and can undergo regular change particularly in areas where new infrastructure is being installed to serve new development.
These network changes can present a challenge to Project Managers as they strive to ensure safe systems of work are in place for any excavation work planned. Simply conducting a record search at project start will be insufficient as this simply provides a snapshot in time of existing utility infrastructure and would be out of date at the time of works.
A fair proportion of the reported 60,000 reported utility strikes each year take place on new developments, often impacting newly installed utility equipment not on the records at project commencement. This is particularly an issue on multi-phase, or multi-year construction projects, where utility infrastructure evolves over the life of the project.
Understanding the need for a solution Premier Energy have worked with a number of Clients to successfully develop a new Safe Dig – Existing Services Drawing to support a Safe System of Work on long term and multi-phase projects. It is a bespoke service aimed at mitigating the risk associated with excavation works on both new developments and long-term infrastructure projects.
Anyone involved in the management of projects, the planning of works, or responsible for putting people to work, should utilise the service as an essential element of a Safe System of Work.
The Safe Dig – Existing Services Drawing is created with existing utility infrastructure as a baseline at project start, any reported updates or amendments are then added, and new infrastructure overlaid to provide a comprehensive record of the evolving on-site utility infrastructure. This up-to-date drawing can then be used prior to works as the basis for;
- Risk Assessments and Method Statement
- Permits to Dig
What is the SafeDig service?
This bespoke service includes a comprehensive utility record search to create an interactive map of the existing utility infrastructure. It is then updated to reflect any changes, whether new installation or changes to the existing infrastructure. The update frequency can be tailored to the project’s timeline and phases. Each update is provided as an interactive PDF, a DWG file, and a drawing register detailing the changes and referencing the data sources.
What data sources are used?
The Safe Dig baseline is established using data provided by utility companies during a utility record search. OS Mastermap and topographic survey data are used to give spatial context to the existing infrastructure. This information is supplemented with proposed site plans and phasing diagrams where appropriate. As the project evolves, the drawing can be updated to include Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electromagnetic Location (EML), or any trial hole information available. This ensures a comprehensive and up-to-date representation of the on-site utility infrastructure. Any data from other sources such as DWG’s, PDF’s and Geospatial data can be added to the drawing if required.
How can Premier Energy help?
As the leading independent utility consultancy with a successful track record since 1995 we are well placed to help you mitigate the risk on your projects and enable a Safe System of Work for excavations. You can contact us at enquiries@premierenergy.co.uk or by calling 01403 740240 to discuss with one of our experts our new Safe Dig – Existing Services Drawing service.