Drain mapping, also known as asset mapping, uses GPS technology to accurately plot the location and layout of your drainage system and its key features. A drain mapping survey identifies the size, depth, directional flow, and access points of each pipe, giving a clear overview of your drainage infrastructure.
Drain Mapping Process, Contents:
- Why is Asset Mapping Important?
- What Happens in a Drain Mapping Survey?
- What is Included in the Survey Report?
- Drain Mapping Process FAQs
Why is Asset Mapping Important?
A drain mapping survey, or asset mapping survey is essential across a wide range of industries. Without a detailed survey, you risk delays in building projects, unexpected repair costs, and environmental hazards.
Building Projects
If you are planning a new building project, asset mapping is crucial. In many cases, a drain mapping survey is required to secure planning permission and avoid costly delays. Without it, you won’t know the size and layout of drains, risking damage to your system during construction. Hidden defects in the network could also go unnoticed, leading to expensive repairs later.
Flood Risk and Environmental Planning
A drain mapping survey is also vital for flood risk management and environmental planning. By understanding the layout of your drainage system, you can develop effective plans to respond to flooding, chemical spills, or other emergencies.
Companies that discharge trade effluent into public sewers, such as food, drink, or chemical manufacturers, have a legal responsibility to know where their effluent discharges and ensure that drains are well maintained. Neglecting this can lead to blockages, burst pipes, flooding, or even contamination of the water supply.
For regulated commercial sites, such as COMAH (Control of Major Accident Hazards) or those under Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR), drain mapping is often a compliance requirement.
What is Included in the Survey Report?
A professional asset mapping survey uses cutting-edge GPS systems with OSGM15 coordinates to provide accuracy up to 2cm. Metro Rod engineers plot the exact location of all drainage features, including manholes, gullies, and drain pipes, and determine whether they are foul or surface water drains, along with their directional flow.
During the survey, a CCTV drain mapping inspection can also be carried out to assess the condition of your drains and highlight any necessary repairs.
Why is Asset Mapping Important?
Once the data is collected, you receive a comprehensive report with the following:
- A site map with a schematic drawing of the drainage system
- Manhole record cards with images of each access point
- An asset register detailing the location, size, access points, and purpose of each drain section
- An interactive Google Maps overlay, allowing you to click on each drain section to view detailed information and photographs
How Metro Rod Can Help
A drain mapping survey is essential for planning construction projects, managing flood risk, reducing environmental hazards, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
At Metro Rod, we are specialists in drain mapping and asset mapping. Our engineers have the technical expertise to understand your requirements and deliver a professional drain mapping survey, alongside advice on maintenance and solutions to prevent disruption to your business.
If you are reviewing your risk management plans or starting a new building project and require a drain mapping survey, contact your local Metro Rod depot or call us on 0800 66 8800.
Drain Mapping Process FAQs
What is drain mapping?
Drain mapping, also known as asset mapping, is the process of using GPS technology to locate and map the layout of your drainage system. It identifies pipe size, depth, flow direction, and access points, giving you a complete overview of your drainage network.
Why do I need a drain mapping survey?
A drain mapping survey is essential for construction projects, flood risk planning, and environmental compliance. It ensures you understand your drainage infrastructure, helping prevent damage, blockages, or environmental hazards.
What is the difference between drain mapping and CCTV drain mapping?
While drain mapping focuses on plotting the location, size, and layout of drains, CCTV drain mapping involves inspecting the inside of pipes using cameras to check their condition. Both are often carried out together for a comprehensive survey.
How accurate is asset mapping?
Modern asset mapping uses GPS systems with OSGM15 coordinates, providing accuracy of up to 2cm. This ensures the precise positioning of all manholes, gullies, and drain pipes.
How long does a drain mapping survey take?
The duration depends on the size and complexity of your drainage network. A small site may only take a few hours, while larger or more complex systems can take several days to map and survey fully.
Can drain mapping prevent flooding?
Yes. A drain mapping survey allows you to understand your drainage system and develop plans for flood risk management. It helps identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
Who needs a drain mapping survey?
Businesses involved in construction, environmental management, or trade effluent discharge often require drain mapping. It is also a compliance requirement for sites under COMAH or Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR).
How can Metro Rod help with drain mapping?
Metro Rod provides specialist drain mapping and asset mapping services, including optional CCTV drain mapping. Our engineers deliver accurate surveys, detailed reports, and expert advice to help you maintain and manage your drainage system.
Talk to your local Metro Rod specialist
We are always happy to arrange a free site assessment and no obligation quotations for any work you might need. Alternatively, you can call our emergency hotline number on 0800 66 88 00
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