PAS 128 Surveys – Underground Utility Surveys

With a constant demand for sustainable infrastructure in the UK, the BSI PAS 128 survey has been developed to provide greater confidence to clients in underground utility detection, maintenance and replacement.

PAS 128:2022 is the UK’s recognised specification for underground utility detection, providing a reliable framework for locating, verifying, and mapping buried services. 

At Technics, we offer PAS 128-compliant utility surveys to support construction, infrastructure, and engineering projects with high-accuracy data.  

Why Choose Technics for Your PAS 128 Survey? 

Over 25 Years of Expertise delivering high-accuracy utility surveys across the UK, Technics can fulfil every element of PAS 128. Including: 

Fully PAS 128:2022 Compliant: Meeting the latest industry standards. 

Advanced Detection Methods: Using Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) & Electromagnetic Location (EML). 

Visual Verification: Underground utilities are observed through Vacuum Excavation  

2D & 3D Digital Deliverables: CAD drawings and reports tailored to your project. 

Risk Reduction & Cost Savings: Minimise excavation risks and avoid costly utility strikes. 

What is the PAS 128 survey?

The PAS 128 specification results from a collaboration between industry experts, including the Chartered Institute of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES), EuroGPR, The Survey Association and Transport for London. The aim is to develop a robust specification and structured approach to underground utility detection, verification and location, ensuring data accuracy and reliability. 

The PAS 128 Survey can be applied to the following:

  • Active, redundant, or unknown utilities 
  • Urban & rural environments 
  • Utilities buried up to three metres deep 

The PAS 128 survey provides support to the client when conducting a specific survey type for increased accuracy and certainty, to enable them to plan effectively in all utility-based activities. Benefits include application to active, redundant or unknown utilities in both rural or urban areas, and utilities buried no deeper than three meters.

PAS 128 Survey Levels & Methodology 

Here at Technics, we provide PAS 128 compliant surveys at four levels of accuracy. These are: 

Level D – Desktop utility locating services

  • Identification of underground utilities via the collation and analysis of existing utility records
  • Both a stand-alone service and a pre-requisite for Levels C, B and A

Level C – Site reconnaissance

  • Supporting and validating existing records via visual inspection of physical evidence observed during a site visit

Level B – Utility detection using EML and GPR

  • Detection and utility location services using geophysical techniques, including high density array

Level A – Verification via intrusive inspection

  • Observation and location of underground utilities, using either a manhole/inspection chamber or physical excavation and exposure

What Deliverables You’ll Receive 

  • Comprehensive CAD Drawings (2D & 3D) – Clearly mapped underground utilities 
  • Detailed Utility Reports – Includes confidence levels and survey methodology 
  • Risk & Safety Insights – Supports planning, design, and excavation processes 

How Technics Can Support You 

Technics has an in-depth understanding of PAS 128 surveys, including the various survey types, detection methods, quality levels, and geospatial location accuracy they provide. We ensure every aspect is covered, from the project planning and scoping process, classification system for quality levels, desktop utility records search and detection, verification and location. 

While PAS 128 is a voluntary standard, we’ve seen increasing demand for the transparency and reliability it offers. Our clients trust us to apply the highest standards in underground utility mapping, delivering accurate data that supports informed decision-making and minimises project risks. 

Get a PAS 128 Survey Quote Today 

Getting the scope right from the start is crucial to a successful project. With over 25 years of experience in the industry and a comprehensive set of services, Technics ensures every element of PAS 128 is covered, giving you confidence in your underground data.  

Need expert guidance on PAS 128 or want to ensure your project meets only the highest standards? Get in touch today. Call one of our suitable offices below, or email enquiries@technicsgroup.com to discuss your survey requirements.  

 

How is PAS 128 different from other specifications?

With a menu of survey types, detection methods, quality levels and geospatial locations, the PAS 128 survey provides detailed selection criteria to facilitate confidence in the data provided. It covers the project planning and scoping process, classification system for quality levels, desktop utility records search and detection, verification and location.

Previous utility mapping specifications have been subject to the interpretation of the practitioner. Whilst PAS 128 is voluntary, Technics has experienced a greater demand for transparency when planning for infrastructure projects. Therefore, our clients have welcomed the higher standards set by this underground utilities specification.