CCTV LATERAL LAUNCH FOR EFFECTIVE INSPECTIONS
A lateral launch sewer inspection allows for a closed-circuit television (CCTV) assessment of all types of pipes, including mainline and lateral pipes. During the process, every inch of the system — from the mainline through the length of a lateral — is inspected for dangerous gas utility line cross bores, pipe degradation and structural issues.
Specifically, lateral launches are instrumental for inspecting sewer service laterals where directional drilling is scheduled for the installation of utility lines, and where past drilled utilities (gas or telecommunication) may have penetrated the lateral. If sewer laterals are not located in advance, crews may be unaware of utility lines being installed through existing wastewater infrastructure. This means the lines may be mistaken for a typical blockage, leading to potentially dangerous situations if contractors or plumbers attempt to use augers to clear the pipe. In the case of gas line cross bores, for example, this can cause an explosion.