Use of robotic cameras that travel down sewer mains and launch an auxiliary camera into the sanitary service lateral coming from a residence or building. The auxiliary camera is equipped with a sonde that transmits a signal that is received above ground by a locator technician. The technician follows the signal to trace the path of the sewer lateral and confirm depth to surface.

This information is then captured on a diagram and used by directional drilling operators to assist them in horizontally drilling new gas line services. Without this integral step, utility customers and installation crews would be in danger of potential gas leaks or explosions.

Gas utility service providers rely on contractors like Taplin to perform locating services. Without this integral step, utility customers and installation crews would be in danger of potential gas leaks or explosions.

Our company is contracted by local municipalities and utility service providers to conduct this important safety check prior to new gas lines being installed. If you see our trucks and crews in your neighborhood, it’s because either your city/township OR your utility provider has hired us to keep you safe!

Occasionally our work requires us to access homeowner property and sometimes even enter a residence in order to access a lateral sewer line. When that happens, our crews will make contact with necessary homeowners (either in person or via a doorhanger left for the resident to review and schedule for the crew to return), explain the situation and answer any questions they may have about the process. Taplin employees will always be in a marked company vehicle, will be wearing required safety gear and should always have their company photo ID badge displayed. Always ask to see crew member credentials if you’re unsure.

Family Owned with Nearly 75 Years of Industry Experience. Headquartered in Kalamazoo, MI with offices across the state we are Michigan’s premier environmental services provider and we operate guided by our six core principles: INTEGRITY | SAFETY | CUSTOMER FOCUS | INTENSITY | TRAINING | TEAMWORK