GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) is a completely safe non-destructive and non-invasive way to locate things underground before digging.
GPR, or Ground Penetrating Radar, is one of the most important imaging processes in non-medical fields today. Just about every construction project you’ve ever seen or been a part of used (or should have used) GPR. But what is GPR? And how is it used in construction projects and beyond? In short, GPR is an imaging method that allows you to know what is under the ground and where so that you don’t hit it during excavation and create a huge, costly, and possibly dangerous problem. Read on to learn the finer details of this important process.
How And Why Do We Use a Ground Penetrating Radar ?
GPR sends out a signal into the surface being scanned and measures how long it takes to bounce back. Based on this (and how the signal comes back) the GPR technician is able to extrapolate what is hidden beneath the surface and how deep. It is often used for scanning concrete and for locating underground utilities, but it can also be used to find unmarked burial sites, and find cavities or voids that could become holes. We use GPR to prevent accidents from occurring by knowing what to expect before we dig or cut. While the technology is effective, it can only sense to a depth of about 2 feet, but that is the area for most utilities and similar issue-causing obstructions.
What Can a GPR Find?
GPR can sense most things underground, including remains, utilities, and buried metal. GPR can also find underground water and voids in the soil. In areas where there is underground gas or oil, GPR can also be used to find those.
Does It Only Work On The Ground?
GPR is probably most often used on the ground, but that is certainly not the only place it works. GPR can also be used on concrete walls before cutting to locate rebar or utilities to have a better sense of where to cut or not cut.
Is a Ground Penetrating Radar Safe?
GPR is completely safe. It is a non-destructive and non-invasive way to locate things under the ground before you dig. The technology does not have any dangerous output, it isn’t even very noisy. And the bottom line is that the process is important because it actually keeps people safe. Running into underground utilities when you dig could be costly but also incredibly dangerous for everyone involved.
Concrete Visions Will Get The Job Done Right
Concrete Visions has been working with clients for over 25 years. Our G&M Services installers are certified with the industry’s major firestop product manufacturers. As part of our firestop service, we can assess abnormal field conditions and, with the manufacturer’s technical support assistance, provide engineering judgments in a timely fashion to comply with contract specifications. Our Field Mechanics undergo ongoing training, including mandatory monthly safety meetings, weekly Toolbox Talks where safety and equipment information is shred, and trainings on safe work standards and safety best practices.