Subsurface Utility Engineering

Since its inception, GHD has been involved in providing Subsurface Utility Engineering services (SUE). The SUE process includes designations for underground utilities as defined by the FHWA for SUE services. The process also conforms to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Standard CI/ASCE 38-02 for the collection and depiction of existing subsurface utility data. SUE is an engineering process utilizing state-of-the-art technology to accurately identify, characterize and map underground utilities prior to excavation and design of new structures or the installation of new underground assets. GHD is NOT an engineering firm and therefore not a potential "competitor." Consider that when choosing a sub consultant for your underground utility needs & future projects.

GHD provides all Levels of SUE:

Quality Level D
The most basic level of information is obtained, requiring a search of all reasonably accessible utility databases.

Quality Level C
This level requires a visual inventory to ascertain the general accuracy of the plans obtained during the Level D phase. The visual inventory may include, but is not limited to, above-ground infrastructure associated with utilities such as manholes, valve boxes, utility poles, etc.

Quality Level B
The level in which geophysical methods are employed to “designate” the existence and horizontal location of utilities within a project area.

Quality Level A
Vacuum excavation is employed to safely expose utilities, providing an exact three-dimensional location and positive identification of the utility. This level provides for the visual verification and measurement of precise horizontal and vertical positions of utilities.