Practical and structured training in underground utility detection and mapping.

This course is designed to train Utility Mapping operators following a professional methodology based on technical standards and recognized procedures in the sector. It is valid for any brand of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Electromagnetic Locator (EML), focusing on safety, work quality, and correct field interpretation.

No prior knowledge of geophysics is required, although it is also aimed at technicians who already use equipment and wish to professionalize their methodology and reduce operational risks.

The objective is for the student to understand the complete process of detecting buried utilities: planning, risk assessment, data acquisition, basic interpretation, and surface marking, applying a systematic and repeatable procedure.

Course Focus

The program is structured into four fundamental blocks:

1️⃣ Safety and planning

• Pre-scan risk assessment.

• Coordination with construction sites and work permits.

• Identification of surface indicators (manholes, covers, cabinets).

• Operator responsibility and limits.

2️⃣ Combined detection methodology

• Complementary use of electromagnetic location (EML) and ground penetrating radar (GPR).

• Advantages and limitations of each technology.

• Systematic sweeping strategies.

• Cross-confirmation of results.

3️⃣ Field operational procedure

• Passive and active scanning with an electromagnetic locator.

• Basic GPR configuration according to the environment (urban, pavement, natural terrain).

• Design of scanning grids and lines.

• Detection and tracking of utility paths.

• Surface marking using standard codes.

4️⃣ Data quality and documentation

• Reliability and technical limitations.

• Identification of clear signals vs. interference.

• Documentary record of the work performed.

• Best practices in delivering results.

What you will learn (Course Objectives)

• ✔ Understand the complete Utility Mapping process.

• ✔ Apply a structured detection procedure.

• ✔ Perform active and passive scans with an electromagnetic locator.

• ✔ Correctly configure a ground penetrating radar according to the environment.

• ✔ Identify typical signatures of metallic and non-metallic utilities.

• ✔ Recognize false signals and common errors.

• ✔ Mark buried utilities consistently and safely.

• ✔ Properly document field work.

Who is it for

• Utility detection operators and technicians.

• Water, gas, telecommunications, and electricity maintenance companies.

• Civil works technicians.

• Surveyors, engineers, and geologists.

• New hires in Utility Mapping companies.

• Companies wishing to structure their methodology and reduce site risks.

Summary syllabus

• Introduction to Utility Mapping.

• Safety and risk assessment.

• Electromagnetic location: passive and active modes.

• Ground Penetrating Radar: practical fundamentals of acquisition.

• Systematic scanning strategies.

• Basic field interpretation.

• Marking and standard codes.

• Documentation and delivery of results.

• Real practical field exercise.