What is required to locate and expose utilities before trenching can begin?

To locate and expose utilities before trenching begins, the use of a sucker truck is essential. A sucker truck, also known as a vacuum excavator, utilizes suction to safely remove soil and debris around underground utilities. This method minimizes the risk of damaging existing lines and ensures a safer work environment by allowing for a visual inspection of the utilities before any digging occurs.

In situations where precision and safety are critical, this equipment is favored as it provides a non-destructive way to expose cables, pipes, and other utilities. It helps to prevent accidents and costly repairs that could arise from accidental utility strikes during the trenching process.

Other equipment mentioned, such as excavation equipment, a backhoe, and a trenching machine, are primarily used for digging, moving earth, and creating trenches rather than specifically for locating and exposing utilities safely before the excavation begins.