To conduct right-of-way (ROW) sweeps in Alberta, Canada, the process typically involves:
Planning and Research: Understand the specific requirements for the ROW area, including regulations and environmental considerations.
Utility Locating: Use specialized equipment to locate and mark underground utilities such as pipes, cables, and other infrastructure.
Documentation: Accurately document the locations of all identified utilities.
Safety Precautions: Implement safety measures to protect workers and the public during the sweep.
Ongoing Monitoring: Regularly monitor the area for changes or new utility installations.
Tools To Use in Right-Of-Way Sweeping
Electromagnetic Locators: These are used to detect metal pipes and cables. They work by sending a signal through the ground and detecting the electromagnetic field generated by metal utilities.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): GPR systems use radar pulses to image the subsurface. This tool is especially useful for locating non-metallic pipes and other utilities that electromagnetic locators can’t detect.
GPS and GIS Technology: GPS devices help in mapping the located utilities accurately, while GIS technology is used for data management and analysis.
Utility Mapping Software: After locating the utilities, the data is often input into specialized mapping software to create detailed maps of the underground infrastructure.
These tools, when used by experienced technicians, ensure effective and safe ROW sweeps in Alberta, minimizing the risk of utility damage during construction or excavation projects.