Determining the Use of Laser Scan Technology on Project

The laser scan technology has been proven to reduce errors in the field, provide a higher
accuracy and volume of measurement information, and minimize the exposure risk to
personnel in the field. The value of this technology has been recognized by JACOBS, and has
been incorporated as part of JACOBS standard work process for revamp and retrofit projects.

However, like all technology tools, determining factors should be considered when deciding
to use the technology on project work. There are four fundamental questions that should be
asked:

Will it provide a higher quality and more accurate measurement data set to work from
in the design environment? (QUALITY Better)

Will it reduce the time to capture the measurement information, and will it provide a
more efficient means to execute the design work. (SCHEDULE Faster).

Will it take same or less man-hours to capture the measurement information and
transfer this information into the design tools? (COST - Cheaper)

Will it minimize the safety risk of the number of people and the amount time being
exposed to the plant environment conditions? (SAFETY Safer)

The following criteria should be considered:

When Laser Scanning Should Be Used:
1. The project has congested areas where design work is required.
2. The project has complex pipe routing in existing condition areas.
3. The project has multiple piping tie-in locations.
4. The project has expensive equipment and piping material cost.
5. The project has little or no existing documentation.
6. The project has inaccurate or incomplete existing documentation.
7. The project is considered high risk to personnel exposure.
8. The project requires elevated access to acquire measurement information.

When Laser Scanning is not required:
1. The project is a green field project
2. The project has minimal existing condition measurement requirements.
3. The project has no elevated measurement requirements.
4. The project has only straight run piping with minimal or no existing obstructions.

When Laser Scanning is required, but should not be scanned:
1. When the area to be scanned has been disassembled.
2. When the area to be scanned has extensive scaffolding in place.
3. When the area to be scanned has large amounts of steam that will cause obstruction.
4. When the conditions are wet, raining, or snowing.
5. Where the laser scan station is in a high vibration area that will distort the
measurement information quality and accuracy.

Prepared By Chirag Shah