Field notes
Reference guides and honest commentary on avoiding utility strikes on UK building sites. Written by people who spend time on site, not in a content studio.
- ·5 min read·reference
CAT and Genny basics: the three modes, and the mistakes that miss services
A short refresher on what a CAT4+ actually does, why Radio mode falls over in town, and why Power mode misses about half of what's in the ground. Not a replacement for formal training.
Read the piece - ·3 min read·on site
The seven-step pre-dig checklist for UK groundworks
Most utility strikes happen because something got rushed at the start of the shift. A short practical checklist of the seven things a competent person should have lined up before a spade goes in.
Read the piece - ·3 min read·reference
NUAR in 2026: what UK contractors need to know
The National Underground Asset Register has been a full live service since 2024. Here's what's changed, what it costs, where the gaps still are, and how to register.
Read the piece - ·4 min read·reference
LSBUD vs NUAR: what's different, and do you need both?
Both are free pre-dig utility search services for UK construction. They work differently, cover different members, and in 2026 most live sites need to use both. Here's why.
Read the piece - ·4 min read·reference
HSG47 utility colour code chart for UK construction
The HSE's HSG47 guidance sets the utility colour codes used on every UK building site. Here's the full chart, the quick rules, and the bits that catch crews out.
Read the piece