Worker Safety, Completed
Investigating New Underground Utility Location Technologies and Novel Methods to Improve the Safety and Efficiency of Highway Construction
Recent advancements in underground utility detection technologies, particularly ground-penetrating radar (GPR), have revolutionized the ability to locate underground utilities, crucial for worker safety and highway construction efficiency. GPR offers faster and more accurate data acquisition through multi-channel devices and various wave frequencies. Software developments have eliminated the need for extensive training, making GPR more accessible. Moreover, data interpretation and visualization techniques have been refined to enhance location accuracy and user-friendliness. In conjunction with GPR, acoustic methods are being explored to address limitations of traditional technologies. Although no single technology can meet all objectives simultaneously, a combination of devices can be employed based on site conditions. Factors such as pipe material, environmental conditions, and the presence of other utilities or underground objects must be considered. This study evaluated several GPR-based devices and recommends three equipment types for different construction stages, aligned with objectives outlined by local contractors and agencies.

