What is Underground Electronic Locating?

Underground electronic locating is a method that employs specialized equipment and electromagnetic technology to detect and trace underground utility lines. It involves the use of electronic transmitters and receivers, which work in tandem to emit signals and record responses to accurately locate and map hidden infrastructure.

In Australia, the electronic location of underground utilities is regulated by Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) formally Dial Before You Dig (DBYD), a national referral service for information about underground infrastructure. The service is provided to excavators, contractors, and homeowners to prevent damaging underground infrastructure when excavating. The BYDA system facilitates communication between the utility owner and the excavator to ensure that the underground assets are accurately located, and any risks or hazards are identified prior to excavation. The use of electronic location devices to identify underground utilities is widely accepted and encouraged as a safe and legal practice in Australia.