In those parts of the country where modern conveniences such as plumbing, electricity and internet are services we take for granted, trenchless technology is critical in being able to maintain and grow the provision of such services without disrupting the infrastructure in place.
In areas where these conveniences are still being installed, trenchless construction serves to fast track the provision of such services while limiting the disruption caused in areas where there are often tight living conditions.
But what are the tangible benefits of trenchless construction and services such as Horizontal Directional Drilling?
- Environmental Sensitivity: This technique allows for infrastructure to be installed under buildings, forests, wetlands and bodies of water.
- Minimal Disruption: With a smaller construction footprint and the option of being able to work in the right of way, disruptions are greatly reduced.
- Decreased Rehabilitation Time: Because trenchless construction methods require little digging, the time to rehabilitate the work area to ‘as found’ or better condition is decreased.
- Saves Time: Decreased disturbance mean less time to complete and less inconvenience associated with the project.
- Added Value: Trenchless construction can result in 30% more value for money on a given project.
- Save On Costs: Trenchless is fast and efficient meaning cost savings in direct, and consequential terms.
- Skill Development and Labour: Trenchless technology uses skilled labour and thus growing the trenchless industry will increase the resource pool of skilled labour which in turn results in higher wages.
These benefits are immediate and tangible not only for those affected by the construction itself ie: residents, businesses, pedestrians and commuters but for those employing trenchless services, such as developers/consulting engineers/contractors/municipalities and parastatals.
