In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged in the utility location industry. Many companies are marketing themselves as Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) providers, despite lacking the necessary qualifications. They often reference the ASCE 38-22 standard and align with trade organizations to create an appearance of legitimacy. However, a significant number of these companies are not true SUE providers.
What is Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE)?
Subsurface Utility Engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering. It focuses on accurately identifying, mapping, and managing buried utilities. The practice is governed by the ASCE 38-22 standard, which provides guidelines for collecting and depicting utility data to enhance safety and reduce risks during construction projects. SUE is a detailed process that includes non-destructive methods like vacuum excavation and requires the oversight of licensed engineers, surveyors, and geologists to ensure data accuracy and reliability.
The Problem of Misrepresentation
Many companies are misusing the term “SUE” without adhering to its professional and legal requirements. They mistakenly believe that owning utility-locating equipment or vacuum excavation trucks qualifies them to offer SUE services.
True SUE providers must:
- Employ licensed engineers, surveyors, and geologists/geophysicists to validate utility data.
- Hold certificates of authorization that legally permit them to provide engineering or surveying services.
Without these key qualifications, a company is not performing SUE, regardless of their marketing claims.
Why This Matters?
The misrepresentation of SUE services has serious consequences for public safety and project integrity. When unqualified companies are hired, their inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to:
- Damaged utilities, causing costly delays and environmental harm.
- Injury to workers and the public.
- Legal risks for clients, as data from unlicensed providers may not be defensible in legal proceedings under the ASCE 38-22 standards.
Preserving the Integrity of the Industry
It is essential for legitimate SUE providers to take a stand against this issue. By reporting companies that falsely claim to offer SUE services, we can protect the public and preserve the profession’s integrity. For clients and contractors seeking SUE services, it is crucial to verify that a company is properly licensed and employs qualified professionals. This is the only way to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of subsurface utility data.
As demand for SUE grows, upholding professional standards is vital. Misrepresentation by unqualified companies not only threatens the safety and success of construction projects but also undermines the reputation of the entire industry. By enforcing compliance and reporting fraudulent practices, we can ensure that SUE continues to build a safer, more efficient future.
Author
Greg Jeffries, CUC, M.ASCE
Utility Division Director, Clearline, Inc.
Mr. Jeffries is an industry veteran with over three decades of experience in utilities, survey, construction, subsurface utility engineering, and utility location services. An established expert in utility construction and management, he specializes in utility location and avoidance issues. He oversees SUE and utility construction projects throughout the southwestern United States and internationally.
