At the start of 2020, almost everything around us changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people stayed indoors as lockdowns were imposed throughout the world. Almost everyone was thrown for a loop. It also changed the way of land surveying. The long lockdown period affected how professionals complete the land surveying process.
Aside from lockdowns, mandated social distancing and physical limitations have made land surveys challenging. The surveying work environments like construction sites became off-limits for some time. This is why many surveying firms have taken special considerations when conducting surveys. They implemented safe work practices that follow the COVID-19 regulations.
To keep survey crews and employees safe, surveying companies switched to a work-from-home setup. Since land surveying is essential to the economy, these adjustments had to be made to continue operating during these unprecedented times. Here are the other changes we have seen within the land surveying industry:
Social Distancing
The nature of the job is mostly fieldwork, which is why safe working practices were strictly implemented. Social distancing was practiced by survey crews out in the field. Many surveyors were forced to adapt to the new norm of working remotely and independently. Most professionals worked remotely to avoid spreading or contracting the virus. As staff interactions were limited, handling projects and troubleshooting became more difficult.
Communication
The pandemic has affected how surveyors go about our field operations, especially communication. Whether it’s with employees, clients, or government agencies, land surveying teams communicate with them about the project. Since in-person interactions were restricted, many companies used remote communication.
Video conferencing became the lifeline of businesses like land surveying. From data collection to sharing of documents, many aspects of land surveying relied on technology. Prior to the pandemic, the transfer of data between office and field was done manually. Now, survey companies are transferring project documents via email, the internet, or cloud storage.
Data Collection
To ensure that people are practicing social distancing and health protocols, survey companies used technology for data collection. Here are some tools utilized by more surveyors:
Photogrammetry Tools
Contrary to popular belief, photogrammetry is not only useful in creating 3D models. Photogrammetric instruments like twin projectors, multiplexes, and laser-scanning systems are utilized in land surveying. Such equipment helps surveyors in achieving efficient data collection without physical contact.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
UAVs help capture data for topographic and hydrographic maps and surveys. When drones go through the field, they hover over the site and measure the site using specialized sensors. The captured images are transmitted, stored, and processed by surveyors. Aerial imagery is beneficial in gaining a better perspective on the survey sites.
GNSS receivers
These electronic devices are used to receive and process signals from space. The GNSS satellite constellations transmit data that can be used to determine location. During the pandemic, more satellite vehicles became available. Surveyors utilize this technology to gain accurate and precise locations.
Quality Control
Since collecting data was changed in many aspects, quality control protocols followed suit. Data that is collected remotely may not be as reliable as the data collected in person. Performing quality control protocols became more rigid and challenging. Consult with a land surveying expert about your next project.
Employee Training
As many companies had lesser projects during the quarantine period, they focused more on employee training and upskilling. Survey firms organized webinars and online conferencing to discuss industry-specific topics. With the use of digital technology, upskilling was a lot easier. Conducting training sessions remotely helped in reducing the spread of COVID-19, keeping the staff connected, and teaching employees how to use tools and technology related to land surveying.
Reach Out To Our Land Surveying Experts
At Pittsburgh Land Surveyors, we specialize in all forms of surveying services like property line marking and construction surveys. From ALTA surveys to flood elevation certificates, we are here to meet your needs. Our business takes pride in our state-of-the-art equipment and fast turnaround times, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. We only employ competent field and office staff who will ensure your safety and satisfaction at all times. When you work with us, we will provide you with the best possible service you truly deserve.
If you want to hire us for your project, do not hesitate to contact us today. Our friendly staff will schedule your appointment right away. We look forward to serving you soon!
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