CCTV drainage surveys have revolutionized how we inspect and maintain our drainage systems, offering a non-invasive, cost-effective and accurate method of identifying and rectifying problems. However, the process of conducting a CCTV drainage survey is not well-understood by many. In this article, we lift the veil to unveil the process and explain what to expect during a CCTV drainage survey.
To begin with, it is crucial to understand that a CCTV Drainage survey is essentially a thorough inspection of your drainage system using advanced CCTV camera technology. This method is applied in scenarios such as routine drain maintenance, diagnosing repeated drainage problems, property purchase surveys, identifying drain layout for building work, and more.
Preparation is the first step in the process. Before carrying out a CCTV drainage survey, a professional drainage engineer will ask questions regarding the history of your drains to identify problematic areas. Also, all relevant health and safety measures will be put in place, ensuring the process proceeds without issues.
Next comes the actual inspection. A technologically advanced, remotely operated camera system is introduced into the drain or sewer. As the camera is manoeuvred through the drainage system, it captures high-resolution, real-time images, which are transmitted back to a mobile survey unit. This allows the drainage engineer to get a detailed view of what is going on inside the drains, providing real-time diagnostics.
CCTV drainage survey technology can identify various issues, such as pipe collapse, blockages, leaks, root intrusion, animal infestation, corrosion, and more. The engineer can pinpoint the exact position and depth of the issue, which significantly reduces the need for exploratory excavation.
Once the inspection is complete, the interpreting phase begins. The data collected gets processed and interpreted by the drainage engineer. They will analyse the footage, noting any found issues, and evaluate the overall condition of the drainage system. They also make diagrams of the drainage network if necessary, providing a comprehensive overview of the system.
Upon cctv drainage survey completion of the interpretation, the engineer will provide you with a detailed report of the findings. This report will include a set of recommendations outlining the best possible solution to rectify the identified problems. The document usually also includes pictures from the video survey and a quote for any remedial work required.
The final step in a CCTV drainage survey is addressing the identified issues. Depending on the findings, this could involve jetting to clear blockages, patch repairs for smaller issues, or excavations for severe faults.
In conclusion, a CCTV drainage survey is a sophisticated and invaluable tool that gives a clear, accurate, and comprehensive health check of your drainage system. While the process may seem daunting, knowing what to expect can alleviate any worries and allow you to appreciate the technical expertise involved. The cost and time required for the survey are insignificant when compared to the benefits it provides in preventing future drainage problems or the knowledge gained when considering property purchase. Therefore, should you suspect an issue with your drains, don’t hesitate to commission a CCTV drainage survey.