The assistant on a survey crew who handles the physical measurement tools at the target end of a line. Historically, this person pulled the physical wire chain and placed marking pins. With electronic instruments, the chainman holds the prism pole for a total station, clears brush on the line of sight, and drives stakes. The role requires a strong understanding of field procedures to ensure the instrument operator gets accurate shots.
The new chainman needs to learn how to hold that rod perfectly plumb.
A good chainman anticipates the party chief's next move and already has the prism set up on the next point before the instrument is turned.
Also heard as
- rodman
- rear chainman
- head chainman
Related terms
Chain
A traditional measuring instrument made of wire links, or the unit of length equal to 66 feet.
Chainwork
The traditional method of measuring distances across land using a physical surveyor's chain.
Target
A sliding visual reference piece mounted on a leveling rod or prism pole.
Occupy
To set up a surveying instrument precisely over a known control point.