Pros and Cons of a Career in Cable Avoidance

A career in cable avoidance, often associated with utility locating and ground disturbance safety, can be both rewarding and challenging.

As a leading provider of CAT training,we at Sygma Solutions understand the importance of presenting a balanced view of any career path. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of pursuing a career in cable avoidance.

Pros of being a Cable Avoidance Professional

High Demand for Skilled Professionals – The utility and construction industries heavily rely on skilled cable avoidance professionals to ensure safety and prevent costly utility strikes. With the increasing complexity of underground networks, the demand for qualified cable avoidance experts is on the rise.
Job Stability – Given the critical nature of their work, cable avoidance professionals often enjoy stable employment. Utilities and construction companies are consistently seeking individuals who can effectively locate and protect buried utilities, making this career relatively recession-proof.
Competitive Compensation – Experienced cable avoidance professionals are well-compensated for their expertise. As they gain proficiency in using advanced technologies and interpreting utility plans, their earning potential increases significantly.
Opportunities for Advancement – A career in cable avoidance offers various opportunities for growth. Professionals can advance into supervisory roles, take on leadership positions, or even establish their own consulting businesses. Continuous learning and specialisation are key to advancement.
Job Variety – Cable avoidance professionals encounter diverse challenges daily. They work on different construction sites, deal with various utility systems, and tackle unique problems, ensuring that no two days are the same.

Cons of being a Cable Avoidance Professional

Physically Demanding – Cable avoidance work can be physically demanding compared to a desk job, sometimes involving excavation, lifting equipment, and outdoor work in various weather conditions. Workers must maintain good physical health to perform their duties effectively.
Exposure to Hazards – Working around utilities poses inherent risks. Cable avoidance professionals must be cautious to avoid utility strikes, gas leaks, or electrical accidents. It’s a job that demands constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.
On-Call or Irregular Hours – Emergencies can happen at any time, so many cable avoidance professionals are on call or may need to work irregular hours, including weekends or nights.
Continuous Learning and Certification – As technology evolves and regulations change, cable avoidance professionals must commit to ongoing learning and certification to stay updated with best practices.
High Responsibility – The work of cable avoidance professionals directly impacts the safety of construction projects and the public. This high level of responsibility can be stressful, especially when dealing with potentially life-threatening situations.

In conclusion, a career in cable avoidance offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. While it demands physical exertion, continuous learning, and a strong sense of responsibility, it also provides job stability, competitive compensation, and opportunities for growth.

If you are passionate about safety, enjoy problem-solving, and are willing to commit to ongoing professional development, get in touch with us about our CAT training courses and certification.

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PAS128 Utility Mapping Training Modules mapped to CICES competencies

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Module 1 – Pas 128 Level D &C training to include level 3 assessment – CICES GEUS01 A-D

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Module 2 – PAS128 Level B Training – can include Level 4 assessment – CICES GUES01 E-I

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2 Day Advanced EM Course (RD8100/8200 & VIVAX)

In depth course covering electromagnetic locators, theory and intensive practical on our real world training site.

Cost: £295 per person
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1 Day Mala GPR Module 1 – Theory & Practical

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2 Day GPR – All Manufacturers

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5 Day TSA & ICES Approved 5 Day Utility Mapping Course

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Location: Worcester

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1 Day Public Genny & CAT Course

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Level 3 Utility Mapping Qualification – All Online

Cost: £275 PLUS REG FEE
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Level 5 Diploma Utility Mapping Qualification – Online Workbooks – followed by assessment

Cost £1100 PLUS REG FEE
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Open level 5 assessment dates at Sygma Solutions, Wigan

Level 5 Diploma Utility Mapping Qualification – in 5 days

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2nd – 6th June 2025 Limited Availability

28th July – 1st August 2025 Limited Availability

Sygma PAS 128 Utility Surveyor Training Including Proqual Level 3 Utility Mapping and Surveying
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Level 3 Utility Mapping and Surveying Public Course

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GPS Course & Total Station Introduction

This is a 2 day dedicated GPS course with an introduction to Total Station

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