Cross-Bore Inspection & Prevention
WHAT IS A CROSS-BORE?
A cross bore is a utility that has been directionally drilled through a sanitary or storm lateral. The utility could include electric, communications, water, and most importantly gas.
To mitigate risk, municipalities and utilities need to inspect for any cross-bores that currently exist and implement a program to prevent cross-bores. Leveraging the recently acquired expertise and experience of Pipetek, we provide inspection services and a prevention program to avoid:
- Utility Damage: Cross boring can cause damage to utility lines which could lead to water or gas leaks or ruptures.
- Service Disruptions: Cross boring can interrupt services which can result in disruptions to power, water supply, telecommunications, or other essential services.
- Service Restoration Delays: The process of identifying, locating, and repairing cross bored utilities can be time-consuming, leading to prolonged service disruptions.
- Safety Hazards: Gas leaks resulting from cross bored pipelines can pose serious safety hazards, potentially leading to explosions or fires and exposure to live electrical lines can also be dangerous.
- Financial Costs: Repairing the damage caused by cross bored utilities can be expensive, both in terms of the direct repair costs and potential legal and liability expenses.
Inspection Services
PRE-INSPECTION
A pre-inspection is televising the lead or main with a CCTV system. This inspection will depict the location and depth. Typically, at the main, curb, property line, and foundation. Wooden stakes are left in the yard for a visual and a drawing of the parcel can be included.
POST-INSPECTION
A post-inspection is performed after the directionally drilled utility is installed. This visually verifies there is not a cross-bore. In the event there is a cross-bore, it is documented with paint and pictures of the damage. The owner of the utility is informed immediately.
Cross-Bore Prevention Program
Pre- and Post- inspections are performed across a variety of municipalities – from large scale installation projects to single addresses. In the event an inspection cannot be performed with a Lateral Launch System, our skilled house entry crews can perform the inspection from an internal or external clean out, pulled toilet, or roof vent. All inspections include a drawing of the parcel, video, and pictures. Included in the prevention program is storing this information on our ArcGIS platform to keep historical records to show areas where this risk is higher.
