Purpose of paper: Excavation undertaken prior to real estate development may cause unintended damage to subsurface utilities, which may cause of disruption in electricity supply, telecommunication, water supply and other essential public services. It is desirable that the exact location of the utilities be ascertained without causing damage to them. This paper provides an overview of available non-destructive technologies (NDT’s) for subsurface utility detection. Methodology: The background, limitations and advantages of available NDT’s were investigated. In typical NDT’s, energy is transmitted into the ground and the reflected energy from subsurface utilities is recorded. Processing of the recorded information produces data about the distribution of physical properties associated with the underground objects. Leading NDT’s for utility detection include Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electromagnetic (EM) Methods, Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, Magnetic Methods, Acoustic Emission Methods and Infrared Thermography. Findings: Available NDT’s are capable of locating underground services, and can therefore diminish unintended utility strikes. However, these technologies can be unreliable, and the accuracy of the applicable NDT should be determined, while considering the relevant site circumstances. GPR is considered the most sophisticated NDT for utility detection. Applying GPR and EM methods in combination is the most effective solution for the majority of underground survey conditions. Value of paper: Locational data for underground services is often unavailable or inaccurate. Existing utilities are frequently damaged during construction excavations, causing project delays and unplanned expenses for all parties involved. Knowledge about the use and limitations of NDT’s can reduce the risk of damage caused to existing services, and avoid substantial costs and time delays.

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