Manhole Surveys, Reimagined: Full 360° Accuracy in Under 10 Minutes

At PQS, we’re constantly looking for ways to push the boundaries of what's possible in surveying—and our latest manhole survey proves just how far the tech has come.

Recently, our team carried out a full 360° manhole scan using the CHCnav RS10—and we did it at night, in under 10 minutes.

Yep. You read that right. Less than 10 minutes to collect the data, no confined space entry, and the end result?An incredibly detailed, geo-referenced point cloud fly-through that gave our client complete visual clarity of the chamber.

Why It Matters

Traditional manhole surveys can be time-consuming, risky, and often rely on limited measurements that only tell part of the story.

But with mobile mapping and laser scanning technology like the RS10, we’re changing the game. Here's what the client gained:

• 🔹 Full 3D model of the chamber and surrounding area

• 🔹 No confined space entry or disruption to the site

• 🔹 Rapid turnaround—ideal for fast-moving projects

• 🔹 Accurate data for future planning, rehab, or mapping work

  
  

This approach doesn’t just speed up the process—it elevates the value of the deliverable. A fly-through like this gives engineers and planners a comprehensive view of underground assets without ever needing to lift a cover again.

Night Surveys? No Problem.

Surveying at night has its own challenges—reduced visibility, safety concerns, tighter windows. But the RS10 performed flawlessly. Thanks to its real-time SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) technology and robust build, it delivered crystal-clear data even in low-light conditions.

The Future of Utility Mapping

As surveyors, we know time on-site matters. So does safety. But accuracy is king. With workflows like this, we’re showing how modern scanning can tick all three boxes.

If you're still relying on manual inspections or legacy techniques, it's worth asking:Is your data as good as it could be?Because at PQS, we believe great decisions start with great data—and we’re here to deliver exactly that.

Interested in seeing the fly-through or learning how this tech could work on your site?📩 GET IN TOUCH TODAY