Pipeline Inspections - Geohazards and deficiencies

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Identification of geohazards and ground deficiencies along the RoW is included in the RoW inspection report. The report highlights any ground deficiencies identified by our team, attached with images and GPS coordinates. Identifications include but are not limited to erosion, channel movement, flooding, unstable banks, ground movement, landslides, frost heave, sinkholes, watercourse crossings, missing signage, exposed facilities, and other anomalies.

Initial RoW inspections identify anomalies and set a baseline for future inspections to benchmark against. The benchmark is useful for capturing chronological data and determining changes over time. 

ADS inspection teams identify erosion along the RoW using the hybrid optical zoom camera and log the images and GPS location of anomalies in the RoW report. With the repetition of data capture, progressive erosion and channel movements can be more easily identified over time. 

ADS pilots identify flooding and other waterbody geohazards with high-resolution image capture and hybrid zoom cameras. Utilizing topographic imaging we identify low points in the flood path and can determine high-risk areas as well as nearby assets or potential equipment in the risk area. Predicting where future flood areas might occur and identifying the risk areas in advance is an excellent way to mitigate risk and protect your equipment and assets.

When performing RoW inspections, nearby water hazards and crossings are flagged, and GPS locations are logged in the RoW report. ADS pilots identify unstable banks, sloughing, slumping, and other ground deficiencies. High-resolution images are captured and logged in the RoW report. If applicable, topographic images will be captured to further investigate the embankment. The analysis and capture of slope deficiencies are useful in identifying potential hazards to your operation and help mitigate risk to your assets and employees.  

ADS pilots visually identify ground anomalies using a 20 MP (or better) camera. If movement or landslides are evident, images are captured and logged in the RoW report. Using a series of these images captured over time, we can identify ground movement. With repetition and contrast identifying subtle changes will become more efficient 

Detection of ground heaves and sinkholes can be captured by ADS teams through different identification techniques. Utilizing orthomosaic mapping and area Ground Control Points, changes within 6 inches are easy to identify. LiDAR area mapping can provide more precise measurements, identifying changes with approximately 2 cm accuracy.