Fortunately these days there are ways of offering contractors real safeguards against such events. Sophisticated electronic asset detection systems may not always be fool-proof but non-destructive digging (NDD) provides a real opportunity to see first hand what exists beneath the surface before committing to full excavation and/or installation of new assets.
Barry Bros has one of the largest fleets of vacuum trucks in Australia and has been engaged in and conducting NDD operations for over eight years. With the ability to utilise NDD in either an air-only or air-water application, Barry Bros offer a rapid-response, competitive service that has been used on a number of major projects throughout the country and even in some unlikely areas.
The primary difference between NDD using either air-only or air-water is that while air-water produces a slurry which is removed by vacuum and then disposed of, air-only is a dry process in which the removed material can be used to backfill the excavated holes.
Choosing the right process is largely determined by existing ground conditions and Barry Bros skilled operators can identify the required process and choose the optimum solution on site.
An example of a large-scale NDD project is the M7 Motorway in Sydney, where Barry Bros was commissioned to use NDD extensively throughout the project to prove the presence and depth of services such as communications, gas, water and power.
Other examples of NDD use are the digging of footings for guard rail posts on the shared-path cycle and walkways and in place of traditional post-hole digging for such things as wire rope fences, lighting poles and signage.
Another application of NDD is excavating around established trees, exposing the roots so that they can be carefully moved or manicured when widening footpaths, roads or simply relocating underground services. NDD avoids the type of root damage normally associated with conventional excavation, is much less harmful to the tree’s health and improves its recovery from such disruptions.
In conclusion, the application of non-destructive digging to identify, locate or prove below-ground services can not only provide peace of mind, it can also significantly reduce operating costs and the attendant risks associated with damaging existing buried assets.
For more information on this or any other similar service, contact your local branch of Barry Bros or visit their website at http://www.barrybros.com.au.
