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Frequently Asked Questions

Question

Why can’t I locate electrical cables using a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT scan)?

Answer

CAT scans can only locate electrical equipment carrying an electrical current. The CAT scanner must be utilised with a signal generator for the cable to be identified. For example, the presence of a street light column will obviously have a cable leading to it, although there will be no power showing when the street light is off in the daytime. Utilising a generator alongside cable avoidance tools will identify the route of the cable, and safe hand digging must be utilised in accordance with the HSE Guidance 47 which can be downloaded for free from their website.

 

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