Why Every Fencing Contractor Should Own a Cable and Pipe Locator: A Deep Dive into Radiodetection’s Industry-Leading Range

Introduction: The Modern Fencing Contractor's Dilemma

In today’s construction and landscaping industry, fencing contractors face increasingly complex work environments. Whether it's residential boundaries, rural properties, or industrial estates, one major and often underestimated challenge persists: the risk of striking underground utilities.

From electrical cables and gas pipelines to telecommunications and water mains, modern underground networks are dense and varied. Striking these utilities can lead to:

• Expensive repair costs
• Legal liabilities
• Project delays
• Safety hazards

This is why owning a reliable cable and pipe locator is no longer optional—it's essential.

In this guide, we explore how fencing contractors can benefit immensely from investing in a high-quality cable and pipe locator, with a focus on Radiodetection’s industry-leading products like the RD8200, RD7200, and CAT4+.

Table of Contents

1. Why Underground Utility Strikes Are a Serious Risk
2. How Cable and Pipe Locators Work
3. Top Benefits of Owning a Locator for Fencing Contractors
4. Radiodetection: The Gold Standard in Utility Locating
5. Detailed Overview of Radiodetection Models
   • RD8200SG
   • RD7200
   • SuperCAT4+
   • Genny4 Transmitters
6. Case Study: Preventing a Power Line Strike on a Rural Fence Installation
7. Why Renting Is No Longer the Best Option
8. How Owning a Locator Saves You Money
9. Training and Support from Radiodetection
10. Conclusion: Protect Your Business and Reputation

1. Why Underground Utility Strikes Are a Serious Risk

Fencing projects often require post-hole digging, trenching, and deep drilling. But when you dig without locating underground infrastructure, you're effectively working blind. Utility strikes can:

• Electrocute workers (in the case of live power lines)
• Cause gas leaks or explosions
• Disrupt essential services like internet and water
• Lead to hefty fines under WHS laws or Dial Before You Dig (BYDA) compliance failures

Did you know?
According to BYDA, there are over 60 utility strikes every week in Australia, and many of these are from small contractors unaware of what's beneath the surface.

2. How Cable and Pipe Locators Work

Cable and pipe locators use electromagnetic fields to detect buried utilities. Most systems involve:

• A transmitter: Sends a signal into underground lines.
• A receiver: Detects the signal and helps trace the path and depth of the utility.

There are both passive (detecting naturally radiating signals) and active (using a transmitter) locating modes

3. Top Benefits of Owning a Locator for Fencing Contractors

a. Avoid Utility Strikes

Locators like the Radiodetection RD8200SG can detect live electrical cables, gas pipes, telecom lines, and water mains, allowing you to work safely around them.

b. Faster Site Preparation

No more waiting days for external utility marking services. You can start mapping your worksite within minutes.

c. Improved Accuracy and Confidence

Locate precisely where to avoid digging and where to safely drill—ideal when placing fence posts near driveways, streets, or commercial buildings.

d. Professional Credibility

Clients notice when you bring professional-grade gear to a site. A fencing contractor who uses a locator is seen as safer, more experienced, and trustworthy.

e. Compliance with BYDA and Safety Regulations

In many states, contractors must demonstrate due diligence in checking for underground utilities. Using a locator helps prove you followed the proper procedure.

4. Radiodetection: The Gold Standard in Utility Locating

Radiodetection is globally recognized for its cutting-edge utility locators. Their products are designed for both professionals and contractors who need rugged, reliable, and precise locating systems.

Why Radiodetection?

• Durability for harsh job sites
• Advanced signal processing
• Built-in GPS and data logging (in RD8200SG)
• Intuitive interfaces for new users
• Long-term serviceability and support

5. Detailed Overview of Radiodetection Models

Radiodetection RD8200SG

The flagship model, perfect for high-accuracy work.

Key Features:

• Class-leading precision with GPS mapping
• Bluetooth and USB data transfer
• Depth estimation up to 6 metres
• Integrated compass and signal strength indicator
• Multi-frequency support

Best For: Large-scale fencing jobs, compliance-focused contractors, and those near urban or industrial zones.

Radiodetection RD7200

A versatile, all-purpose locator ideal for regular contractors.

Key Features:

• 7 active frequencies
• Depth and current measurement
• Compass orientation
• Lightweight and rugged design

Best For: Contractors who want professional accuracy without the advanced data features of the RD8200.

Radiodetection CAT4+

Compact yet powerful for everyday locating needs.

Key Features:

• Power, Radio, and Genny signal detection
• StrikeAlert to detect shallow cables
• Optional Depth measurement
• One-button operation

Best For: Fast job sites or suburban fencing projects.

6. Case Study: Preventing a Power Line Strike on a Rural Fence Installation

A fencing contractor in rural Victoria was hired to install over 400m of boundary fencing. The area had underground power leading to a pump station. Using the RD8200, the contractor:

• Located the power cable within 1 metre of a planned post
• Rerouted the digging plan
• Avoided a potentially fatal electrocution
• Completed the project 2 days early, saving the client thousands

7. Why Renting Is No Longer the Best Option

Renting a locator for each job:

• Adds up over time
• Delays projects due to availability
• Limits your ability to respond to urgent jobs

Owning a locator means:

• Always being prepared
• Faster response to clients
• Lower long-term costs

8. How Owning a Locator Saves You Money

Let’s Break It Down:

9. Training and Support from Radiodetection via Testrix Systems

Radiodetection offers comprehensive training via certified partners and online tutorials. For Australian contractors, suppliers like Testrix Systems offer:

• Onsite or remote training
• Calibration services
• Local support and repairs

Plus, Radiodetection units are built to last, with replaceable parts and firmware updates for long-term use.

10. Conclusion: Protect Your Business and Reputation

Fencing contractors operate in some of the most variable and unpredictable environments in construction. Investing in a Radiodetection cable and pipe locator isn’t just about technology—it’s about protecting your team, your clients, and your business.

Own the risk. Own the accuracy. Own a Radiodetection.

Looking for the best price and expert support in Australia?

Check out the Radiodetection range at Testrix Systems and talk to an expert about which model suits your business.