According to recent reports there are over 21,000 landfills across England and Wales. Of these over 1,200 are categorised as containing hazardous waste and a further 7,000+ contain industrial waste.
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The records of former landfill sites are not detailed but it is known that some of the hazardous waste sites are now under farmland, greenspace and even housing. There are a variety of problems associated with landfills, particularly older sites, as they have not been lined, which leaves dangerous substances free to leach out of the ground and contaminate the surrounding areas.
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SUMO’s specialist engineering department uses a wide array of geophysical equipment to obtain the best information about your site, whilst working to your budget.
Step one
For large sites, SUMO would use an Electromagnetic Ground Conductivity system to sample soils to a depth of 4m. This is typically enough to penetrate through any caps or membranes which may be present on site. Survey collection is quick and efficient, meaning large sites can be investigated swiftly and cost effectively.
As most landfills contain a significant number of metallic debris, we would expect to see an increase in the ground conductivity of the areas. For example, the ground conductivity data in the plan below shows a clear definition between the boundary of the landfill and the in-situ ground on site.
Above : Identifying a concealed landfill on a ground conductivity contour plan.
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A gradiometer survey can also help with identifying ferrous features within the ground and areas of up to 10ha can be covered in a day with our ATV towed systems.
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Step two
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Once the Ground Conductivity survey has established the approximate extents of the landfill, we work with our clients to establish what extra information, if any, is needed. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) may be able to establish the depth of cover to the landfill, as well as a more precise location of the boundaries.
Above : GPR data showing depth of landfill which has been capped.
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An additional technique, Resistivity Imaging, can penetrate depths of 30m+ providing information to help determine the horizontal extent of the landfill and therefore approximate volumes.
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How accurate is SUMO's underground utility survey and what types of utilities can it locate?Using cutting-edge technologies like electro-magnetics, signal induced threading, and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), our underground utility surveys accurately detect a wide array of buried utilities including metal and plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms, and fiber optic cables. The methodology ensures high accuracy without the need for invasive trial holes.
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What is the turnaround time for obtaining results with SUMO's Underground Utility Detection service?SUMO’s service is built for rapid response. Contractors can receive immediate results onsite. Our equipment provides real-time information, and once we leave the site, the detected utilities are visibly marked on the ground surface for quick reference.
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Does SUMO provide detailed mapping of the detected utilities for permanent records or construction purposes?Absolutely, SUMO not only marks the detected utilities on-site but also offers high-quality, color-coded survey drawings. These drawings can include topographic features and a comprehensive record of the utility detection survey, ensuring it meets the client’s needs for future reference or pre-construction design works.
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Topographical and Geophysical surveyIn addition to mapping out utilities, our experience team can accurately survey the land, creating topographical drawings for use. With our state-of-the-art aerial technology, nothing is missed.
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What additional information can be included in the underground utility mapping service provided by SUMO?In addition to topographic features, SUMO’s mapping service can include fixed surface utility features such as inspection chambers, valve boxes, and telegraph poles. It can also incorporate key topographic details like building lines, fence lines, kerb lines, street furniture, street names, building names, and house numbers, facilitating easy site location.
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Does the utility mapping service by SUMO include standard referencing and compatibility with existing survey data?Yes, SUMO ensures the utility mapping references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. Additionally, the drawings can be supplied to a specified grid and level datum and can overlay an existing topographical survey, making it a versatile and adaptable service for various project needs.
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What sets SUMO Services apart from other survey providers?SUMO stands out due to our impeccable level of service with nationwide coverage, state-of-the-art equipment, and our commitment to delivering top-quality, detailed colour-coded survey drawings in both hard and electronic formats.
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How do I request a survey quotation from SUMO Services?Requesting a quotation is easy. Just click on the "Request a Survey Quotation" button on this page, and our team will get in touch with you promptly.
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Can I book a SUMO Survey online?Yes, you can! Simply click on the "Book a SUMO Survey" button on this page, and you can schedule your survey with us at your convenience.
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What type of survey is suitable for my project or site?Our experienced team will work with you to determine the most appropriate survey for your specific needs. Contact us, and we'll assist you in making the right choice.
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Can I obtain both digital and hard copies of survey drawings?Absolutely. We offer the convenience of electronic copies for digital use and hard copies for your records. Just let us know your preference.
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Do you provide custom survey solutions for unique projects?Yes, we understand that every project is unique. Our team is highly adaptable and can tailor our surveying services to meet your specific requirements.
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How do I get in touch with SUMO Services for further questions?For any additional questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us through the contact form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.
Geophysical Engineering Surveys
Air Raid Shelters
Cellars & Basements
Post Tension Cables
Underground Storage Tanks
Air Voids
Chimney Flues
Rebar
Water Engineering
Badger Setts
Earthing Installations
Sinkholes
Burials
Geological Application
Soil Thermal Resistivity Testing
Buried Foundations
Landfills
Structural Investigations
Buried Manholes
Mineshafts
