Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) is a valuable tool for construction professionals, providing critical information about the location, depth, and size of underground utilities. The benefits of incorporating SUE into a construction project include:

  1. Improved Safety: By having an accurate understanding of the location and depth of underground utilities, workers can avoid damaging or disrupting them during excavation. This reduces the risk of injury, property damage, and costly repairs.

  2. Reduced Project Delays: SUE helps to identify potential conflicts between construction activities and existing underground utilities, allowing project teams to plan accordingly and avoid costly delays.

  3. Cost Savings: By identifying and mitigating potential issues before construction begins, SUE can help to reduce costs associated with unexpected utility strikes, repairs, and project delays.

  4. Improved Design: SUE provides valuable information about the location and size of existing utilities, which can inform the design of new construction projects. This can lead to more efficient, cost-effective designs and reduced construction times.

  5. Enhanced Project Planning: SUE provides a comprehensive understanding of the subsurface environment, allowing project teams to plan and coordinate construction activities more effectively. This can result in smoother, more efficient project delivery.

  6. Increased Stakeholder Confidence: By providing an accurate understanding of the subsurface environment, SUE can increase stakeholder confidence in the construction process and the quality of the end result.

In conclusion, SUE offers a range of benefits to construction professionals, from improved safety and reduced project delays, to cost savings and enhanced project planning. By incorporating SUE into their projects, construction professionals can ensure the successful delivery of high-quality construction projects.

Recording and Exchanging Utility Infrastructure Data uses technology to quickly capture, record, and visualize the precise locations of critical utility and infrastructure data from a standard mobile device.

History of SUE - published by permission of C. Paul Scott, Author

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RESOURCES

  • The Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Association is organized to promote knowledge, best practices, and the exchange of information in the profession; ensure the protection of public health, welfare and safety; and educate clients and other stakeholders of the value and benefits of subsurface utility engineering services.

    https://www.sueassociation.com/

  • The Utility Engineering & Surveying Institute (UESI) offers professionals working within the utility, pipeline engineering, and surveying/geomatics communities the opportunity to network with others and shape the future of the industry by participating in technical activities, conferences, and the development of internationally recognized standards.

    https://www.asce-pgh.org/UESI

  • The Pennsylvania Utility Contractors Association (PUCA) is the voice of the utility industry for sewer and water contractors, suppliers, professionals in the industry, and governmental entities for 57 years in 2024.

    https://nucapa.org/