Surveying is an integral part of the land development and construction process, but the work can be dangerous. Weather conditions, difficult terrain, and man-made obstacles create challenges for those performing this essential engineering task. Here are a few issues that a qualified team of surveyors must overcome.

What Are the Safety Concerns for Land Surveyors?

1. Harmful Site Conditions

Construction sites, mines, waterways, and busy roadways are among the locations that create dangerous conditions for surveyors conducting manual inspections. For personal protection and increased visibility to others when working on location, well-equipped surveyors wear orange reflective vests, hard hats, protective goggles or glasses, and masks.

One strategy land surveyors use to accomplish their tasks yet keep out of unsafe zones is aerial mapping. Equipment including helicopters, drones, and airplanes enable survey teams to see the terrain from the sky without risk of personal injury on the ground.

2. Extreme Weather Conditions

Surveying land in cold climates puts workers at risk of frostbite and hypothermia, while prolonged exposure to hot climates can lead to dehydration and heatstroke. Safety-conscious surveyors wear protective gear such as hats, gloves, and clothing that retains or reflects heat as appropriate for the environment. Other protective steps include drinking lots of water and seeking shade or warmth when necessary.

3. Remote Locations

Many land development and construction projects start in out-of-the-way places, such as mountainous, rural, or desert areas. These undeveloped areas might be far from commercial and retail enterprises, making it impossible to run to the local big box store in an emergency.

Before setting out on these remote assignments, wise land surveyors gather and test everything they might need in emergency situations. Along with their vehicles, tools, and equipment, they often bring plenty of nourishing non-perishable food and drinking water, a first aid kit, smartphones, extra batteries, and a generator. Other items these professionals pack for emergencies include matches, candles, flares, a navigation system, and a spare tire.

When you want well-equipped surveyors for land development projects, contact the team of professionals at Hart-Frederick Consultants in Tiffin, IA. Since 1996, these licensed and certified land surveyors, engineers, senior designers, construction technicians, and IDOT inspectors have served counties throughout Southeast Iowa. Visit them online to learn more about this consulting firm’s services and call (319) 545-7215 today to schedule a consultation appointment.