1.1 These practices cover standard procedures for using electrical methods to locate leaks in geomembranes covered with water or earthen materials. For clarity, this practice uses the term “leak” to mean holes, punctures, tears, knife cuts, seam defects, cracks, and similar breaches in an installed geomembrane (as defined in 3.2.9).

1.2 These practices are intended to ensure that leak location surveys are performed with a standardized level of leak detection capability. To allow further innovations, and because various leak location practitioners use a wide variety of procedures and equipment to perform these surveys, performance-based protocol are also used that specify minimum leak detection criteria.

1.3 The survey shall then be conducted using the demonstrated equipment, procedures, and survey parameters. In the absence of the minimum signal strength during leak detection distance testing, a minimum measurement density specification is provided. Alternatively, the minimum measurement density may simply be used.

1.4 Separate procedures are given for leak location surveys for geomembranes covered with water and for geomembranes covered with earthen materials. Separate procedures are given for leak detection distance tests using actual and artificial leaks.

1.5 Examples of methods of data analysis for soil-covered surveys are provided as guidance in Appendix X1.

1.6 Leak location surveys can be used on geomembranes installed in basins, ponds, tanks, ore and waste pads, landfill cells, landfill caps, and other containment facilities. The procedures are applicable for geomembranes made of materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, bituminous material, and other electrically insulating materials.

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.8 (Warning—The electrical methods used for geomembrane leak location could use high voltages, resulting in the potential for electrical shock or electrocution. This hazard might be increased because operations might be conducted in or near water. In particular, a high voltage could exist between the water or earthen material and earth ground, or any grounded conductor. These procedures are potentially VERY DANGEROUS, and can result in personal injury or death. The electrical methods used for geomembrane leak location should be attempted only by qualified and experienced personnel. Appropriate safety measures must be taken to protect the leak location operators as well as other people at the site.)

1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.10 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.