Analysis of Cross-Bores in Unmarked Sewer Service Laterals
Publication: Journal of Pipeline Systems Engineering and Practice
Volume 5, Issue 2
Abstract
With an increase in trenchless methods being used for the installation of natural gas lines in urban areas, unmarked sewer service laterals present a risk of accidental and unknown cross-bores with these distribution lines. Although the physical damage to underground facilities is always unwanted, a cross-bored plastic natural gas distribution pipeline in a sewer is vulnerable to mechanized sewer cleaning tools that may be used in the event of a backup, with potential explosive consequences. Mainline sewers and storm sewers are also at risk from cross-bores; however, the scope of this paper is sewer service laterals. Although good practices exist for operators of horizontal boring equipment, these assume that the existing underground structures are marked and/or located. State legislation mandates the marking and locating of underground infrastructure; however, the question of who assumes responsibility for marking and locating sewer service laterals is a contentious issue. Sewer system owner/operators generally place the responsibility of locating and marking in the hands of unsuspecting property owners claiming that the laterals are on private property. In reality, property owners lack the expertise and equipment to mark and locate these service laterals. This paper describes the challenges with respect to natural gas cross-bores in unmarked sewer service laterals and presents data obtained from a survey of 43 contractors involved in the distribution contracting industry. The results further support the need for immediate action related to unmarked underground sewer service laterals.
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Acknowledgments
The author would like to thank members of the Distribution Contractors Association (DCA) for their participation and invaluable contribution to the paper.
References
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Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Dec 28, 2012
Accepted: Aug 5, 2013
Published online: Oct 29, 2013
Discussion open until: Mar 29, 2014
Published in print: May 1, 2014
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