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SERVICES – PORTFOLIO
GRAVE RELOCATION UNIT
Grave Relocation
Our grave relocation service focuses on the handling of the complete relocation process including project conceptualisation, planning, liaising with clients and their next of kin, social consultation and application for all the relevant and necessary permits. We endeavour to conduct a well-managed exhumation process and final reburial ceremony, as this is not only a business matter, but often an emotional one.
The integration of grave relocations with resettlement projects has guided PGS in the development and implementation of the first Grave Relocation Action Plans (GRAP) for resettlements in Southern Africa.
Stakeholder Engagement
The stakeholder engagement process of a grave relocation project is the pivot around which a successful project is built. Communication with the relevant government authorities and any other stakeholders is crucial. Our qualified team has years of practical experience to handle situations as they arise. They act as the contact between the client and the affected community during the project. We also handle the drafting of any reports necessary.
DNA Analysis
As part of our grave relocation services we act as liaison with top national and international accredited DNA laboratories in the collection and management of human remains for analysis and establishment of DNA profiles and maternal and paternal decent.
Ground Penetration Radar (GPR)
PGS Heritage has embarked on a pilot study in the utilization of GPR for the detection and identification of unmarked graves. By providing this service PGS is addressing the need expressed in the market for the identification of unmarked graves, cemetery and burial ground delineation as well as confirmation of risk associated with the relocation of poorly marked cemeteries. GPR has become the geophysical tool of choice for the identification of unmarked graves due to detection success as proven on the European continent.
HERITAGE ADVISORY UNIT
Heritage Impact Assessments
Assessing heritage impact entails determining the impact a proposed development project will have on a specific culture and its heritage. A community values specific aspect of their heritage and they wish to maintain, protect and pass it on to future generations. We provide the necessary expertise and experience to handle the requirements as established by the relevant Heritage Authority from the initial NID, Heritage Scoping to the full HIA. Depending on the scope of the project these HIA’s cover historical background, archaeological, palaeontological and landscape evaluations.Paleontological
Palaeontological Studies
A paleontological study is the study of fossils. Fossils are the remains of organisms such as plants, animals, fungi and bacteria that lived in a certain environment and are preserved in the crust of the earth. The purpose of our paleontological studies is multiple. It is done for exploration purposes, to determine approximate age or to study the evolution of ancient environments. The main purposes of these studies by PGS are to document ancient organisms, assess the impacts of proposed developments on fossil heritage and to ensure the conservation of this heritage.
Built Environment Studies
The Built Environment Unit focuses on the protection, assessment, and management of historic buildings, urban landscapes, and related infrastructure. Its role is to evaluate the cultural and architectural significance of structures, ensure compliance with heritage legislation, and guide development in ways that conserve heritage value while allowing for sustainable use. The BEU undertakes heritage impact assessments, conservation management plans, and provides specialist advice during planning and construction projects to balance preservation with modern needs.
Archaeological Surveys & Archaeological Specific surveys
We conduct archaeological surveys and archaeological specific surveys that can be utilised as stand alone documents or incorporated into Heritage Impact Assessments. The purpose of a survey is to assess the impact and associated risks of a proposed development project on archaeological heritage.
HERITAGE MITIGATION AND SCIENCES UNIT
The Heritage Mitigation and Sciences Unit (HMSU) focuses on the scientific and technical aspects of heritage management. It provides specialised services in archaeological and palaeontological mitigation, laboratory analyses, environmental heritage assessments, and the application of advanced scientific methods to support heritage preservation and compliance. The unit bridges heritage practice and research, ensuring that mitigation measures are evidence-based, ethically sound, and aligned with national heritage legislation and international best practice.
Mitigation work
The Unit works in close collaboration with the Heritage Advisory Unit (HAU) to ensure that scientific findings directly inform practical heritage management and mitigation strategies. Data generated through HMSU’s field investigations, laboratory analyses, and geophysical surveys are interpreted in consultation with the HAU to develop evidence-based recommendations. The Advisory Unit then integrates these technical insights into management plans, permit applications, and stakeholder engagements. This partnership ensures that mitigation measures are both scientifically robust and contextually appropriate, supporting sustainable heritage conservation and compliance across project lifecycles.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
PGS Heritage has embarked on a pilot study in the utilization of GPR for the detection and identification of unmarked graves. By providing this service PGS is addressing the need expressed in the market for the identification of unmarked graves, cemetery and burial ground delineation as well as confirmation of risk associated with the relocation of poorly marked cemeteries. GPR has become the geophysical tool of choice for the identification of unmarked graves due to detection success as proven on the European continent.
Magnetometry
Within the HMSU, magnetometry is employed as a non-invasive geophysical method to detect and map subsurface archaeological features. By measuring subtle variations in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by buried structures, hearths, ditches, or artefacts, this technique enables efficient site assessment and targeted excavation planning. Our use of magnetometry enhances the accuracy and cost-effectiveness of heritage investigations, allowing for minimal disturbance while maximising the recovery of scientific and cultural information.
OTHER SERVICES
Historical Research
Phase 2 Archaeological excavations
Archaeological Rescue excavations
Historic Architectural Evaluation
Management of Large Scale Archaeological Excavations
Regional Heritage Surveys
Development and Management of Heritage Databases
Design and evaluation of Heritage Landscapes through GIS
Development of Cultural Resources Management Plans
Historical Research
Phase 2 Archaeological excavations
Archaeological Rescue excavations
Historic Architectural Evaluation
Management of Large Scale Archaeological Excavations
Regional Heritage Surveys
Development and Management of Heritage Databases
Design and evaluation of Heritage Landscapes through GIS
Development of Cultural Resources Management Plans