Program Overview
The Radiodetection RD8200 is a precision locator used by utilities and contractors to find and identify buried cables and pipes. This program teaches operators to exploit its full capability rather than relying on a single default mode, which is where many location errors begin.
After reviewing utility records and site evidence, participants study the electromagnetic theory behind location and then work through the RD8200 receiver and transmitter in detail: menus, frequencies, sensitivity, calibration and pre-use checks. Particular attention is given to peak and null operation, depth estimation and current direction and current measurement, which help distinguish the target line from adjacent services. An outdoor practical consolidates the skills. Operators also learn to recognize distorted fields near tees, bends and parallel services, and to confirm results before handing a marked site to an excavation team.
Learning Outcomes
- Interpret utility plans and symbols and correlate them with features on the ground
- Configure the RD8200 receiver and transmitter and perform pre-use and calibration checks
- Apply peak, null and combined antenna responses to pinpoint a buried conductor
- Use current measurement and current direction to identify the target line among parallel services
- Choose between passive, direct connection, clamp and induction methods for a given site
- Locate, confirm and mark services in accordance with safe digging guidance
Program Modules
- Interpreting Utility Plans and Symbols — reading owner records and understanding their accuracy limits
- Identifying Services on the Ground — site walkover techniques and recognizing visible indicators of buried plant
- Electromagnetic Location Theory — field shapes, signal coupling and sources of distortion
- RD8200 Controls and Displays — screen icons, signal strength, depth and current readouts
- Operating the RD8200 and Transmitter in All Modes — passive power and radio, direct connection, clamp and induction
- Setup, Menus, Calibration and Pre-Use Testing — configuration options and daily confidence checks
- Peak and Null Operation and Current Measurement — pinpointing, depth estimation and current direction for line identification
- Outdoor Practical Locating — tracing and marking services on a designated test area
Who Should Attend
- Utility locating technicians
- Excavation and civil engineering crews
- Telecom and fiber installation teams
- Site supervisors responsible for permits to dig
- Survey teams delivering utility mapping
Standards & Codes Referenced
- HSE HSG47 (Avoiding Danger from Underground Services)
- OSHA 2226-10R (Trenching and Excavation Safety)
- BSI PAS 128:2014 (Underground Utility Detection, Verification and Location)
Assessment & Certification
Competence is confirmed through a written examination on location theory, RD8200 operation and safe digging practice and a practical assessment in which participants locate, identify and mark target services among parallel lines on a test field. Practical sessions take place at ASEEE-approved training centers under the supervision of a qualified assessor. Assessors check depth estimates against known values and verify that each target line has been positively identified.
Successful candidates receive the ASEEE competency certificate, which carries a unique ID that employers and clients can verify online through Certificate Check. Recertification is recommended every 3 years.
