SUR/General/TBT-SUR-004

GPS and Total Station Safe Use

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GPS and Total Station Safe Use

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-SUR-004  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
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What?

  • GPS receivers and total stations are essential surveying tools on modern construction sites.
  • Surveyors often work in exposed positions near traffic, excavations, plant, and overhead hazards.
  • Total stations use laser beams — direct eye exposure can cause permanent eye damage.
  • GPS equipment uses tall poles that can contact overhead power lines if not properly controlled.
  • Setting out near live traffic requires full traffic management and high-visibility PPE at all times.
  • Working alone with survey equipment is common and lone working procedures must be followed.
  • Tripods and equipment left unattended on site create trip hazards and risk of damage.
  • The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 apply to all survey instruments.
  • Surveyors must be aware of their surroundings — focusing on instruments reduces situational awareness.
  • Battery charging for GPS units must follow site electrical safety rules including PAT testing.

Why?

Eye injury riskTotal station lasers can cause permanent eye damage if pointed at people.
Working near hazardsSurveyors work close to plant, excavations, and live traffic daily.
Lone working riskSurveyors frequently work alone and need check-in procedures in place.
Overhead contactsTall GPS poles near power lines have caused electrocution incidents.
Do Don't
  • Carry out a risk assessment for each survey location before starting.
  • Wear full high-visibility PPE when working near plant or traffic.
  • Follow lone working procedures including check-ins when working alone.
  • Keep GPS poles well away from overhead power lines and cables.
  • Set the total station laser to the lowest power class needed.
  • Secure tripods and instruments to prevent them toppling or being struck.
  • Use traffic management when setting out near or on live highways.
  • Maintain situational awareness — look up regularly from the instrument.
  • Store and charge equipment safely following site electrical rules.
  • Brief machine operators on your working position before they start.
  • DON'T point a total station laser at people, vehicles, or aircraft.
  • DON'T raise GPS poles near overhead power lines or electrical cables.
  • DON'T work near live traffic without proper traffic management in place.
  • DON'T leave tripods or equipment unattended in walkways or access routes.
  • DON'T work alone without a confirmed lone working procedure.
  • DON'T assume machine operators can see you — make eye contact first.
  • DON'T set up instruments inside excavation exclusion zones without permission.
  • DON'T carry heavy equipment over uneven ground without assessing the route.
  • DON'T ignore changing site conditions like plant movements or weather.
  • DON'T use survey equipment you have not been trained on.

See also: Surveying Safety Awareness | Lone Working Awareness
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