Cable detection - social housing

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Cable detection - social housing - please help

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jarsmith83		#1 Posted : 16 November 2011 10:28:35(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Hi Guys/Gals I have been tasked with coming up with a safe systems of work for cable detection. I have located the correct guidance (HSG47), and relevant regs (managment regs, HASWA, Electricity at Work etc) but, I have the folowing problem: The works are due to take place at the rear of someones propety (in their back garden). It is an excavation that is to take place directly next to the foundations of the property (approx 1 metre deep max by 1 metre wide max). The type of cabling I believe could be present, could be that of a 32mm cable or of similar however, there might be a very short chance a larger cable might be present. My questions are: 1. Do I have to take into consideration the stabilty of the property, as the works are taking place next to the foundations of the property? 2. What would be the most appropriate equipment used to locate the types of cables I have mentioned? *Further info - the job is to dig down and to locate a tree root, that may be causing problems to the foundations of the property i.e. breaking through and as an outcome, causing damp. We cannot locate any drawings etc, so we are reliant on a safe systems of work. Any help with my questions would be gratefully accepted, likewise, anyone who has a safe systems of work/procedure for this type of work, in which they would be prepared to share, would be great. Of course, I will make whatever info I recieved specific to the task proposed. Many thanks in advance; Jarsmith83


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Lawlee45239		#2 Posted : 16 November 2011 10:43:32(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Hi ya, If you get onto the local utility providers they will issue with local services drawings, these are ROUGH ESTIMATES as to where the cables may be located, do not take it that this is the actual location as they have been wrong in the past. You could mark these up above ground, and then begin to conduct a CAT (Cable avoidance tool) scan of the area, and again marking above ground the location of cables found using the CAT. You will be required to carry out CAT & Genny training on the use of such equipment or perhaps hire in services for the day. Preferably use safe digging practices, where possible using hand tools to conduct trial holes to ensure that known services are located. (Refer to HSG47) Are you using a mini digger to do the digging activities? If so a banksman should be present to ensure that he keeps an eye on the dig to see if he can see unforeseen cables and notify the digger operator before a strike occurs. Is there overhead cables to take into account? I am not well educated on the structural side of the question. So I shall therefore decline to answer that bit!!


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jarsmith83		#3 Posted : 16 November 2011 10:49:39(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		As stated, no drawings are availiable. What specific type of cable scanning equipment shall I use? i.e Hum detector, radio frequency etc???


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Lawlee45239		#4 Posted : 16 November 2011 10:56:01(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		jarsmith83 wrote: As stated, no drawings are availiable. What specific type of cable scanning equipment shall I use? i.e Hum detector, radio frequency etc??? Seriously, none at all. That is not at all good. Right, I have previously used Radiodetection both for training purposes and supply of said equipment, if you give them a call and chat in depth about the project, they will be able to advise you better with regards to the actual type of CAT. http://www.radiodetectio..._id=2690&art_id=5210


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bob youel		#5 Posted : 16 November 2011 11:40:45(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Also think of the tree as people do not want unecessary damage done to trees so check if it is protected etc. - Your local council should have the information and the HSE has a guide re 'construction and tree works'


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Ron Hunter		#6 Posted : 16 November 2011 13:06:59(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		As others allude here, I suggest you choose to focus your efforts in finding a competent (sub) contractor to conduct or assist with this work. There are any number of competent contractors routinely involved with street works who will be well-versed in avoiding ALL underground services - not just electrical power supplies. A prerequisite in any line of work is to acknowledge limitations of the in-house resource and recognise when specialist help needs to be engaged. You may also require the services of specialist structural engineers and arboriculturists later.


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