PUMA: the PAS128 Utility Mapping Accreditation

PUMA (PAS128 Utility Mapping Accreditation) is an accreditation scheme created by The  Survey Association (TSA), the trade association representing land surveyors in the UK. PUMA is designed to assess the ability of surveyors to deliver to the PAS128 specification and deliver peace of mind and surety to their clients as to the quality of their work. The aim of the scheme is to raise standards in utility surveys to prioritise safety, drive efficiency and save money.

PAS128 is the British Standards Institute [BSI] Specification for underground utility detection, verification and location. There has been widespread adoption of the PAS128 specification but considerable variability in its application. The most recent update, PAS128: 2022, introduced new requirements and has seen additional variability.

Previously, survey companies could claim to deliver to the PAS128 specification but did not have to provide any proof of their capability and there was no recognised standard for them to work to.

Now, anyone seeking a utility survey, who sees that a survey company has PUMA accreditation, can have complete confidence in the level of service and the quality of data that will be provided to them, as well as saving time and potentially costly delays which can be caused by poor and inaccurate utility surveys.

PUMA accredited companies have been independently audited to ensure their outputs and working practices comply with the PAS128 specification and all its requirements around staff training and competence. Clients can be assured that the PUMA accredited company they use is competent to carry out the services requested and fully compliant with PAS128:2022.