With a national reach and a mission to reduce underground utility strikes, CERTLOC is delivering tailored training and certification programs that are reshaping safety practices across Australia.
CERTLOC, formerly known as DBYD Certification, has emerged as a nationally recognised, not-for-profit industry partner committed to reducing risk, enhancing safety, and upholding industry standards. Through specialised training and certification programs, CERTLOC empowers individuals and organisations to safely and accurately locate underground assets, reduce utility strikes, and promote safe excavation practices.
As the national certification body for utility locating, CERTLOC administers certification programs for individuals and organisations involved in underground asset locating, excavation, and construction.
In a statement released at the time of the change of name, CERTLOC said the rebrand reflected its journey of growth in capability and aspirations, but things were otherwise business as usual.
“Our commitment to you and the industry remains unparalleled. Our team and the way we do business remains unchanged. At CERTLOC we make safe safer, and we look forward to delivering that in collaboration with you,” CERTLOC CEO Robert Row said.
“CERTLOC is proudly independent, and our previous name did not reflect that independence. People in the industry often confuse us with BYDA. We arose out of the old DBYD Queensland, but we are completely separate from BYDA.”
The rebrand, which took place in September 2024 – coincided with the incorporation of four new solution streams: Support, Train, Assess and Certify, which underpin CERTLOC’s mission.
When it comes to support, CERTLOC collaborates with asset owners, contractors, councils and utility locators to build compliant, capable workforces that meet evolving industry and regulatory expectations. CERTLOC supports workforce development by helping organisations identify skill gaps, deliver targeted training, and build pathways to certification.
CERTLOC delivers industry-leading training through its Pre-Excavation Management Course (PEMC), Utility Strike Prevention Course and Locator Development Programs. Its flagship PEMC, trusted by over 7000 professionals, equips field crews, engineers, project managers, and HSEQ personnel with the skills to interpret utility plans, manage on-site risks, and comply with AS 5488. It’s available in-person or via webinar and focuses on real-world scenarios to support confident decision-making.
Complementing this is the Locator Development Program, which delivers targeted, hands-on training in the field, tailored to individual skill levels and learning needs. Available in one-day, two-day, and supervisor-specific formats, these sessions build technical capability and confidence and include detailed feedback to help participants improve safety and accuracy in the field. CERTLOC’s training programs are comprehensive and can be tailored to asset owners, contractors, councils and utility locators.
Endorsements from industry partners, like Schokman Director Shane Schokman, underscore the effectiveness and practical value of the Locator Development Program.
“Initially I was reserved about the time taken away from working, but the team gave great feedback and stated that they received more value than they have in any locating course done over the years,” he said.
CERTLOC conducts rigorous theoretical and practical assessments to verify that utility locators meet industry-recognised standards for safe, accurate underground utility locating and asset protection.
Once an organisation achieves certification, a formal agreement is established between CERTLOC (as the representative of the asset owner) and the Certified Locating Organisation (CLO), for their Certified Locators to have exclusive access to that asset owners’ network – ensuring adherence to the asset owners’ requirements.
CERTLOC boasts an impressive list of program partners including AGIG, APA, CitiPower/Powercor, TAS Networks, nbn, Ventia, Fulton Hogan, Downer, ServiceStream, UGL, NT Power & Water, Central Irrigation Trust, TAS Water, Renmark Irrigation Trust, Diona, and Dampier Bunbury Pipeline. CERTLOC’s success with program partners includes achieving more than a 50 per cent reduction in utility strikes through targeted training and certification initiatives.
With over 1140 Certified Locators nationwide and growing, CERTLOC continues to set the benchmark for underground asset safety – delivering practical, scalable solutions that protect people, communities, and infrastructure.
To learn more, visit certloc.com.au
This article was featured in the August edition of Trenchless Australasia.
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