locked resources cover image

Technical Tips Edition 3: Understanding the Roles of Capacitance and Far End Earthing

How voltage leaves insulated copper cables, coated gas or water mains

This is a resource exclusively for our CERTLOC Certified Locators, as well as Certified Locating Organisations.

Login to your account to access.

Access Your Account
locked resources cover image

Technical Tips Edition 2: Fundamentals of EMF in Underground Asset Location

The Signal: Back to Basics 

This is a resource exclusively for our CERTLOC Certified Locators, as well as Certified Locating Organisations.

Login to your account to access.

Access Your Account
locked resources cover image

Technical Tips Edition 1: Intricacies of Locating High Voltage Electrical Systems in Passive Mode

High Voltage: Dangerous and Difficult to Locate

This is a resource exclusively for our CERTLOC Certified Locators, as well as Certified Locating Organisations.

Login to your account to access.

Access Your Account
April, 2024 In the field

Behind the Locate: Breaking Ground and Breaking Barriers

Jessie's Journey: From Heels to Steel Caps - Inspiring Women in Utility Locating

By Dana Row

In a tale of resilience and determination, Jessie McCracken is currently one of only nine women in Australia who are Certified Locators. Transitioning from corporate accounting to construction sites, her journey exemplifies the expanding horizons for women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

As an accountant, she was well accustomed to corporate life, but following the birth of her daughter and the unexpected separation from her husband just four days later, Jessie found herself in a challenging personal situation.

Jessie needed a career change, one that offered flexibility to manage the demands of single motherhood. Through assisting her parent’s earthmoving company, which utilised vacuum excavation trucks, she discovered the world of utility locating. Witnessing the work first-hand, Jessie saw an opportunity that fit her needs.

Jessie contacted a local Certified Locator that she knew of through her parents, Paul from CUSL (Cairns Underground Service Locators).

With Paul nearing retirement, Jessie enquired about the possibility of shadowing him to learn the ropes of locating. This initial request turned into Paul training and mentoring Jessie for a year, allowing her to gain valuable experience before pursuing formal certification through DBYD Certification with a goal to take over Paul’s business. She took over the service area and some of the clientele but had the freedom to take the business and make it her own.

Balancing motherhood and a demanding new skillset presented unique challenges. This period meant that she was breastfeeding between locating jobs, all while learning a new career.

In 2021, she took a bold step and founded Northern Underground Cable Finder, and ensured they became a Certified Locating Organisation. Through her company, she actively promotes a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the industry.

Trading high heels for steel-capped boots, Jessie’s story is an inspiration. Showcasing the exciting and flexible opportunities in utility locating for women, mothers, and younger generations. But her work goes beyond navigating underground networks. Safety is her focus. By ensuring the accurate identification of buried utilities, Jessie protects workers, infrastructure, and the communities she serves.

As she breaks barriers and explores new territories, Jessie McCracken’s journey reminds us that with determination and perseverance, any obstacle can be overcome, and any dream can be realised.

If you’re interested in connecting with Jessie or Northern Underground Cable Finder, feel free to reach out.

Northern Underground Cable Finder

March, 2024 In the field

Behind the Locate: Earnest’s Journey to Certified Locator 

Earnest Banhwa reflects on the challenges, rewards, and significance of achieving Certified Locator status, offering valuable tips for locators interested in becoming certified

By Paula Christie

Becoming a Certified Locator is a significant milestone in the career of every underground utility professional. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Earnest Banhwa, the Principal Surveyor at Precise Positioning Solutions Pty Ltd, to delve into his experience with the Certified Locator journey. 

Name: Earnest Banhwa
Position: Principal Surveyor
Organisation: Precise Positioning Solutions Pty Ltd
State: Queensland
Locator Experience: 3 years

Q: What does becoming a Certified Locator mean to you?

Becoming a Certified Locator is more than just a title; it’s a testament to our company’s ability to deliver both surveying and cable locating services. It adds a layer of credibility that resonates with potential clients, emphasising our commitment to excellence in the field. 

Q: What was the most challenging aspect of the process?

The journey to certification was not without its hurdles. I began my training amidst the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to logistical challenges. Traveling from Rockhampton to Brisbane for face-to-face training and later the practical assessment was a task in itself. Several postponements prolonged the certification process, testing both my patience and dedication. 

Q: What is your favourite thing about being a Certified Locator?

Being involved in the initial phases for construction projects is exciting. Construction should not commence without knowing what lies beneath the surface. As a locator and surveyor, I play a critical role in ensuring a safe and informed beginning to these projects. 

Q: Share a dangerous/interesting/funny/strange situation during a locate.

Locating in thick and tall grass and  encountering snakes is keeping me on high alert in those situations. Opening broken pits can also present unforeseen dangers. With my surveying background, the ability to now open pits and trace from one pit to another pit added an interesting dimension to my work. 

Q: When doing locating work, what does safety mean to you?

Safety is paramount. Before starting any locating activity, I do a comprehensive safety assessment. I want to return to my family in the same state I left home in the morning.  

Q: What tip would you give to other locators interested in becoming certified?

Enrol in a formal training course and, most importantly, never stop practising. Continuous learning and hands-on experience are key to mastering the required skills. 

By sharing his insights, Earnest invites fellow locators to embrace the Certified Locator journey. His experiences, from facing challenges to relishing the fascinating aspects of the job, reflect the dedication required in this crucial role. Safety, professionalism, and continuous learning define the path to becoming a Certified Locator. 

If you’re interested in connecting with Earnest or Precise Positioning Services, feel free to reach out:

LinkedIn – Earnest Banhwa
LinkedIn – Precise Positioning Solutions Pty Ltd  

February, 2024 In the field

Behind the Locate: The Thrill of the Unknown

With years of experience across Sydney, the UK, and complex city sites, Ben Whitfield reflects on his journey to becoming a Certified Locator and shares valuable insights for aspiring professionals in the field

By Paula Christie

Ben Whitfield, Service Locator at Locate Scan and Survey in NSW, has recently achieved a significant milestone in his career by becoming a Certified Locator.

With over three years locating experience in Sydney and the UK, Ben brings a variety of expertise to his role in underground service location. For Ben, obtaining certification is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

“It means a lot to me,” Ben explains. “Hard work pays off, and now getting recognised for it through the certification opens a lot more doors for me.” 

Highlighting city centres as one of the most daunting aspects of locating work, Ben mentions the complexity of numerous services, public traffic, and bustling environments as factors to these challenging locating sites. Because of these challenges, successfully completing projects in these types of areas, gives a sense of accomplishment and a recognition of learned skills.  

 One part Ben enjoys most about being a Certified Locator is the thrill of the unknown.

“With not being able to physically see the services, it’s almost like ‘The Unknown,” Ben shares. “Being able to successfully map out all aspects of underground services gives great satisfaction.”

 Throughout his career, Ben has encountered some interesting locations, from the various regions in New South Wales to the capital, Canberra, each place holds its own unique charm and challenges, contributing to Ben’s professional growth. 

When it comes to safety in locating work, Ben stresses its importance. “Safety is crucial on any working site. You are responsible for the safety of others and yourself when locating underground services,” Ben affirms, underlining that it extends beyond equipment usage to fostering a secure environment for all individuals participating in the process. 

For aspiring locators interested in becoming certified, Ben offers valuable advice:

“Take your time to learn the trade and all the stages that go with it. It’s not a job where you can cut corners. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” 

 We congratulate Ben on his achievement and wish him continued success as a Certified Locator.  

 

If you’re interested in connecting with Ben or Locate Scan & Survey, feel free to reach out:

Connect with Locate Scan & Survey 

Find out more about becoming a Certified Locator here.  

To contact a Certified Locator for your next project search here.  

February, 2024 In the field

Behind the Locate: Proving Competency

Riley Brown's Journey to Certification

By Paula Christie

Meet Riley Brown, a newly Certified Locator from the Wollongong area of NSW. With 18 months of hands-on experience with A1 Locate Services Pty Ltd Riley offers insights into the significance of achieving certification and his passion for the role of underground services locator. 

For Riley, becoming certified as a locator is a big achievement and boosts his confidence in the industry. 

It is more than just career progression for him. It represents a personal milestone, having proven his skills and competency.  

The path to certification for Riley wasn’t without its hurdles.  Riley openly shares that the theoretical aspects of the certification process posed a unique challenge due to his Dyslexia. However, his determination to succeed and the support around him helped him to achieve his goal.  

Riley’s favourite aspect of the job is the difference that each site presents: “Every location or site is different, which is part of the challenge. Locating and marking utilities to expose what was previously just a blank canvas with potential hidden dangers is an exciting process. Finding those underground services that the client wasn’t aware of and minimising the risk of damage to utilities is one of my favourite parts of being a locator.” 

A self-confessed outdoors guy, some of his most memorable work locations would have to be the National Parks in NSW. The dense bushland and rugged terrain make locating extra interesting in these areas, with the native flora and fauna adding an additional layer of complexity to his locating work. 

Safety is paramount when working around utilities. Ensuring a secure and safer worksite environment is fundamental and in Riley’s world, it’s a crucial aspect of the locating process, especially on complex worksites. 

For those looking to get certified, he offers a simple yet invaluable piece of advice “do not rush the process.” He emphasises the significance of gaining practical experience prior to attempting the assessment.  

If you’re interested in connecting with Riley or A1 Locate Services Pty Ltd, feel free to reach out: 

Connect with A1 Locate Services Pty Ltd 

Find out more about becoming a Certified Locator here.  

To contact a Certified Locator for your next project search here.  

January, 2024 In the field

Behind the Locate: A Curious Nature and a Good Process Will Help You to Get Certified

Charlie Euston, having spent the last year as a Service Locator at DWB Service Locating in Victoria, decided that obtaining certification was the only way to ensure that he was recognised in the locating industry

By Paula Christie

“Getting certified was a validation of my learning, skills and also a key step in my career progression. It signifies my dedication to upholding the industry’s stringent standards and DBYD Certification’s rigorous assessments,” Charlie affirmed. 

 Reflecting on the certification process, Charlie acknowledged facing two significant challenges. Overcoming test anxiety was crucial, necessitating practice until procedures became second nature. Slowing down during the practical assessment and approaching it methodically boosted confidence, allowing a comprehensive display of acquired skills and knowledge. 

“Learning to distinguish Telstra cables posed a notable hurdle. Once I referred to a Telstra cable guide online, decoding acronyms that I was confused by, it became clear, resolving any ongoing issues,” Charlie recounted.

Expressing passion for the role, Charlie highlighted the appeal of service locating was that it matches his curious nature. He shared how eager he is in learning how things work – from how the locating equipment works through to how the various utility systems work. 

Having the confidence in advising a client on where the underground services are located, by marking them correctly, is a critical component to mitigate risk before ground-disturbing.

Charlie recounts an incident at a new estate that exposed one client’s disregard for marked services: “I had a job locating all the services in the nature strips of a new estate so they could maintain a safe 1.5 m from services when planting trees. When I arrived on day 2 of the job, the mini excavator was already at work digging holes for the trees, directly over the power and gas lines I had already marked, occasionally ripping up the marker take for the LV. After speaking with the site manager, it became apparent that they were planting trees according to ‘the plan’ regardless of the actual position of services. I had marked the service clearly, provided relevant information on clearances required for services and made sure I kept notes on all of it. It was a lesson for me that as a locator I can do the locations and provide information, but ultimately, it is up to the client to use that information and determine the next steps. This was a great reminder to take photos and notes and to get the job sheet signed off to CYA.”

For those aspiring to enter the field of service locating, Charlie offers practical advice. “Get comfortable reading complex Telstra plans, practice the locate process until it becomes habit, and look for opportunities to locate less-common services,” he suggests.

“I would go for a walk to grab a coffee and I would look for all the pits, valves and connection points. Then I would go over in my head the method of connection I would use, doing a 360 sweep, how I would trouble shoot a poor signal.” Creating these repeatable processes allowed Charlie to become the confident Certified Locator he is today. 

Proactive learning, a curiosity for problem solving and a solid process will help you on your path to becoming Certified.  

If you’re interested in connecting with Charlie or DWB Engineering, feel free to reach out:

Connect with DWB Engineering on LinkedIn.  

Find out more about becoming a Certified Locator here. 

To contact a Certified Locator for your next project search here. 

 

November, 2023 In the field

Behind the Locate: Protecting the Public and Myself is Crucial

John O'Brien, an experienced Certified Locator and Manager at Locate Scan & Survey, provides insights into the industry

By Paula Christie

With his recent certification, John offers perspectives on both the challenges and noteworthy aspects of his profession.

“Not being on the one job site all the time allows me to discover different facets of NSW, places even some locals have never been to.”

Reflecting on his early struggles, John recalls grappling with electrical utility systems during his training. “I initially struggled with the intricacies, particularly with electrical utility systems, but with practice, I got the hang of it,” he admits.

A defining aspect of John’s role is the diversity it offers, allowing him to explore different regions within NSW.

John reflects on his recent work in Sydney, specifically on the light rail corridor project for Gartner Rose. He notably mentions his involvement in The GreenWay Project, an innovative cycling, pedestrian, and biodiversity corridor across the Inner West. Moving from conducting sonde operations on Pitt Street to handling tasks in regional areas of NSW, the job is certainly different. 

Navigating through diverse landscapes, from Moree to Griffith, Cootamundra, and the Sydney city centre, John recounts the fascinating places he has located. His work offers a unique perspective on the networks that lie beneath the surface of these locations. 

Safety is a top priority for John, particularly in a field with live traffic and the need for traffic management systems.

“Protecting the public and myself is crucial, following safety procedures, like pit guards to ensure no one slips into an open pit. I’ve also obtained a confined space ticket and first aid ticket to add to my qualifications,” he says. 

For those aspiring to become Certified Locators, John’s advice is straightforward. “Get the practice and knowledge in, understand how dials work, and don’t shy away from seeking guidance,” he suggests.  

Congratulations to John! We wish you all the best in your career.

If you’re interested in connecting with John or Locate Scan & Survey, feel free to reach out: 

Connect with Locate Scan & Survey on Facebook.  

Find out more about becoming a Certified Locator here. 

To contact a Certified Locator for your next project search here. 

October, 2023 In the field

Behind the Locate: Overcoming Obstacles is Part of the Fun

Problem solving is something all utility locators seem to have in common - and Peter Hawkes is no exception

By Paula Christie

Located in Coffs Harbour, northern NSW, Peter is the Director of his business Locate3D. He says one of the most challenging things about being a locator is also what he likes most. 

“I like working out what’s going on underground and how best to overcome each obstacle that comes along.”

“On the flip side, one of the other challenges is handling last-minute calls from clients who urgently need us onsite. Not only does it throw your day’s plans out but it’s frustrating to turn up and find the excavator operator ready and waiting on us to do a locate and give the all clear.”

“It’s certainly not the safest way to prepare for an excavation job,” said Peter. 

Safety plays a very important role when working around existing utilities. Peter says safety is paramount on every locate job. 

“It’s not just the personal and work health and safety aspects, but it’s also the quality of the locate that’s vital.” 

Peter was a utility locator for three years when he took the steps to become a Certified Locator. 

“It was great to finally get certified. I had my staff, who were all Certified Locators, so it was time for me to set the right example. The move has also been great for my business.” 

“Being certified means I get out of the office much more and do the field work which I enjoy,” said Peter.  

One of the perks of the job is getting to locate at some pretty amazing places. Peter’s favourite locating destination so far was Lord Howe Island.  

When asked what tip he would give to someone considering becoming a Certified Locator, Peter says “just do it, get out there and get the experience.” 

“Becoming certified not only improves your locating skills but enhances your knowledge base and career opportunities,” said Peter. 

Congratulations to Peter on achieving his Locator Certification!

 

If you’re interested in connecting with Peter or Locate3D, feel free to reach out: 

Connect with Locate3D on Facebook

Find out more about becoming a Certified Locator here. 

To contact a Certified Locator for your next project search here. 

BSI logo

CERTLOC LTD is ISO 9001 certified

CERTLOC is proud to have achieved ISO 9001 Certification of quality management system standards for the provision of the Certified Locator, Certified Locating Organisation Program, the delivery of the Pre-Excavation Management Course and Skills Development Program.

Error