GPS receivers and total stations are essential surveying instruments used for setting out, as-built recording, and monitoring on construction sites. While the instruments themselves are not inherently dangerous, the activities of setting up, operating, and moving between survey stations expose the surveyor to site hazards including moving plant, open excavations, and live traffic. Surveyors must balance concentration on their instruments with awareness of the dynamic hazards around them.
Key Hazards
Surveyor struck by moving plant while concentrating on instrument readings
Falls into open excavations when setting out near unprotected trench edges
Theft or damage of expensive instruments left unattended on site
Eye strain from prolonged use of electronic distance measurement instruments
Control Measures
Complete a dynamic risk assessment of the survey area before setting up any instrument.
Wear high-visibility clothing and maintain awareness of plant movements throughout the task.
Set up tripods on firm, stable ground away from traffic routes and excavation edges.
Secure instruments to the tripod and never leave them unattended in active work areas.
Make eye contact with plant operators before crossing traffic routes or approaching machines.
Use survey prisms on poles rather than standing at the target point in hazardous locations.
Protect instrument screens from direct sunlight to maintain accuracy and reduce eye strain.
Plan the survey sequence to minimise the number of instrument moves through active work zones.
Carry a charged radio or phone and follow the lone working procedure when surveying in isolated areas.
Remember
Concentrating on the instrument screen reduces your awareness of plant and traffic around you.
Always complete a dynamic risk assessment before setting up in any new survey location.
High-visibility clothing is essential but does not replace the need to make eye contact with operators.
Use prism poles to take readings from a safe distance rather than standing at the target point yourself.
Never leave expensive instruments unattended — theft from construction sites is common.
Follow the lone working procedure when surveying in isolated areas away from the main workforce.
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974