While some parts of the world are susceptible to sinkhole formation due to soil conditions, seismic activity, or underlying geology, sinkholes have become a common problem everywhere there is aging urban infrastructure. Throughout the world, fresh water, storm water and sewage pipes under our cities are getting older.  When the age of these water conveyance pipes reach the 50-to-60-year mark, they invariably begin to leak with greater frequency, which can gradually or suddenly erode the soil supporting roadways and sidewalks, resulting in sinkholes which collapse roadways and put lives in danger.

In Japan and other markets, GEO SEARCH performs regular proactive investigations for under-pavement anomalies throughout cities, on high-speed highways, and even on airport runways and taxiways.  

Similar to periodic Pavement Conditions Index (PCI) surveys which measure the quality of roadway surfaces in the United States, periodic GEO SEARCH anomaly detection surveys find dangerous hazards which are below the pavement.

As an ancillary benefit, if a cavity is caused by a leaking water pipe the GEO SEARCH survey also allows water agencies to repair their infrastructure, saving our precious water resources.

Periodic GPR surveys for under-pavement hazards demonstrably enhance general public safety and Protect Lives and Livelihoods.

In addition, it is recommended that GEO SEARCH anomaly surveys be conducted prior to any and all road repaving or resurfacing projects.  This helps guarantee that the entire roadway, including below the pavement surface, is sound and stable and free from cavitations and potential sinkholes before repaving.