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Friday, February 24, 2012

Utility Markers and UDM's

In recent years there has been explosive growth in the Utility Marker industry with a variety of products on the market.  Utility markers are now used in a variety of shapes and applications for just about every imaginable underground utility.

With the introduction of MUUDS, a new segment in utility markers is emerging that we refer to as UDM's or Utility DEPTH Markers.

UDM's differ dramatically in that they are not only installed WITH the utility, but identify the depth, which is not accomplish by any other utility marker on the market today.

The absence of a UDM marking a utility, offers no guide to contractors to identify the tolerance zone that most state laws require them to observe.  UDM's and MUUDS in particular, narrow the tolerance zone to a more specific range and offer a guide to the utility to aid in damage prevention.

According to DIRT (Damage Information Recovery Tool) issued by the CGA, 37% of all accidents were because no one called before they dug.  MUUDS offer a tracer cord to not only alert contractors BEFORE they get too far, but they also offer a guide to  the utility being marked and identifying the tolerance zone and promoting in excavation.

The tracer cords can be marked with contact information and use of a UDM will help deter and prevent unnecessary damage.  It is important to note that MUUDS DO NOT eliminate the need for locating, calling 811 or observance of the tolerance zone.  MUUDS are a tool in aiding the location of a utility to avoid damage.

Aesthetically, because MUUDS are installed at the full depth of the utility, the remain straight and resist being pulled out of the ground.  Surface markers can be removed, fade and  bend over time.  MUUDS utility markers offer the traditional benefits of other markers , with the added benefit of identifying the depth of the utility.

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