A formal locate report or write-up should document the findings with: Utility Locating- The 70% Rule
: This is the most common method. It involves a transmitter that sends a frequency down a conductive line and a receiver that detects the signal above ground.
: You must contact your local 811 center (the "call before you dig" service). In many states, locators are required to arrive on-site within 48 hours of the request. 2. The Locating Process Locators use specialized equipment to find buried lines: locating
: If EM is ineffective (e.g., for non-conductive plastic pipes), locators may use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) or Acoustic Locating .
A standard write-up for a locating activity typically includes several critical components: 1. Pre-Excavation Steps A formal locate report or write-up should document
: Active locating uses a transmitter to follow a specific route, while passive locating detects existing fields from live power lines. 3. Documentation and Marking
: Before the locator arrives, the excavator should "white line" or pre-mark the planned work area with white paint or flags. This helps locators focus on the exact site, speeding up the process. In many states, locators are required to arrive
In the context of construction and excavation, a is the process of identifying and marking the positions of underground utility lines—such as gas, electric, water, and telecommunications—to prevent damage during digging.