Event Summary
Accurate utility locating is critical to safe operations, yet many field personnel lack a consistent understanding of locating theory, equipment usage, and real-world conditions that impact accuracy. Training is often inconsistent or overly theoretical, leaving gaps between knowledge and field execution.
These gaps can lead to mislocates, utility strikes, safety incidents, service disruptions, and increased costs. Inconsistent practices across teams also create risk exposure and reduce confidence in locating results, especially in complex or congested environments.
This hands-on training combines focused classroom instruction with real-world field exercises, allowing participants to immediately apply what they learn. It integrates core locating theory—circuits, frequencies, signal distortion, grounding, and soil conditions—with practical use of transmitters and receivers in live scenarios.
Participants will improve their ability to accurately locate utilities, troubleshoot challenging conditions, and verify results before marking. They will leave with stronger technical confidence, more consistent field practices, and the ability to reduce risk in daily locating operations.
What You Will Gain
- A clear understanding of locating theory, including circuits, frequencies, and signal behavior
- Practical skills in using transmitters and receivers effectively
- Techniques for grounding, signal control, and troubleshooting distortion
- Confidence in locating in challenging conditions (deep utilities, weak signals, crowded corridors)
- Ability to verify accuracy before marking to reduce risk of mislocates
- Hands-on experience applying classroom concepts in real-world field scenarios
- Pre- and post-assessment to measure knowledge improvement
- Certificate of attendance upon completion
Who Should Attend
- Utility locators (new and experienced)
- Municipal and public works crews
- Damage prevention personnel
- Anyone responsible for safe excavation and accurate utility locating
Structure:
- Classroom session (4–5 hours) covering theory, equipment, and best practices
- Field exercises applying techniques in real locating scenarios (2-3 hours)
What to Bring
- Work boots or closed-toe shoes
- Outdoor-appropriate clothing
- Personal locating equipment (encouraged but not required)
Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott Tampa Brandon
10152 Palm River Road
Tampa, Florida 33619
813-661-9559
*Call to reserve your room and request the TECO rate.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Tampa-Brandon
10240 Palm River Road
Tampa, Florida, 33619
813-685-7099
*Call to reserve your room and request the TECO rate.
Additional Dates & Locations Available
- July 8, 2026: Plano, Texas | Atmos Energy
- August 5, 2026: Greensburgh, Pennsylvania | EGT&S Western Area HQ
- September 23, 2026: Port Huron, MI | SEMCO Energy Gas Company
Roy Montemarano
Technical Services Manager, Heath
After leaving college I started my forty-sixth plus year journey with Heath as a Leak survey field technician working my way up to leak survey and damage prevention field manager. Transferred to the training department where associates and I developed training standards and procedures for the various instrumentations used in the field; training both Heath personnel, and customers (domestic and international).
Consolidated the inside sales department that was in each regional office into one Customer Service Department now located in Houston, TX.
