Karlson Utilities Reduced Depth of Cover Process:

 

Identification of Reduced Cover:

• Survey and Inspection: The first step Karlson Utilities undertakes involves identifying areas where utilities have less than the minimum depth of  cover required. This may be done through surveying, reviewing construction plans, or utilising ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology (Karlson Utilities operate the RD8200 & TX-10).
• Assessing Risks: Karlson Utilities evaluate the potential risks associated with reduced cover, including susceptibility to physical damage, exposure to environmental factors, and the likelihood of utility failure. This information is then submitted to our client for a decision to be taken on if remedial action is required or not.

 

Assessment of Existing Conditions:

• Utility Condition Evaluation: Inspect the condition of the utilities affected by reduced cover. Look for signs of stress, corrosion, or previous damage that may require attention.
• Soil Analysis: Conduct soil testing (Wenner method) to determine the properties of the surrounding soil, including compaction, moisture content, and stability, which can affect the utility’s performance.

 

Remediation Strategies: strategies that can be employed to remediate reduced depth of cover, include:

Reburial:

• Excavation: Carefully excavate around the utility to raise its elevation. This may involve removing soil and debris to expose the utility.
• Depth Adjustment: Reinstall the utility at a greater depth according to regulatory standards. This often includes backfilling with suitable material to provide adequate support.

Support Structures:

• Protective Sleeves or Jackets: In some cases, applying protective sleeves or jackets around the utility can help shield it from external pressures while it remains at a reduced depth.
• Structural Supports: Install structural supports such as sandbags or concrete blocks to provide stability and protection against external forces.

Surface Protection:

• Warning Tape: Place warning tape above utilities to alert future excavators of the presence of the utility below.
• Marker Posts: Install marker posts to indicate the location and depth of utilities, providing visual cues for future excavations.

Documentation and Compliance:

• Reporting: Document the remediation process, including before-and-after surveys, methods used, and any changes made to utility depth.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all remediation efforts comply with local regulations and industry standards, which may dictate minimum depth requirements and protective measures.

 

Why Reduced Depth of Cover Remediation is Important

Safety Concerns:

• Accident Prevention: Utilities at insufficient depths are more susceptible to accidental damage during excavation or construction activities. Remediation helps prevent accidents that could lead to gas leaks, electrical hazards, or water main breaks.

Service Reliability:

• Minimizing Disruptions: Maintaining proper cover depth ensures that utilities can function reliably without unexpected failures or service interruptions. This is particularly critical for essential services such as water, gas, and electricity.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Avoiding Legal Liabilities: Adhering to local and national regulations regarding depth of cover helps utility companies avoid legal liabilities, fines, and penalties associated with non-compliance.

Economic Considerations:

• Cost Savings: While remediation efforts may require an initial investment, they can save money in the long run by preventing costly repairs, emergency responses, and service disruptions. The cost of addressing a utility failure is often significantly higher than the cost of proper remediation.

Environmental Protection:

• Preventing Contamination: Properly covered utilities reduce the risk of leaks and spills that can contaminate soil and groundwater, contributing to environmental protection and compliance with environmental regulations.

 

Why Choose Karlson Utilities

Reduced depth of cover remediation is a critical process aimed at ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of underground utility systems. By utilising Karlson Utilities, we are able to identify and address insufficient cover of utilities assets and prevent accidents whilst ensuring compliance with regulations. Implementing effective remediation strategies not only safeguards our clients infrastructure but also promotes public safety and service continuity.