What is a bridge inspection?

Bridge inspections allow engineers to identify small defects and potential problem areas in bridges before they develop into major issues.

What do bridge inspectors look for?

Using a rotary impact tool to “sound” a bridge, inspectors listen for differences in pitches and frequencies that indicate the health of a bridge. A geologist hammer can also be used to sound different areas of the bridge. Inspectors listen for delamination that they might have missed just by looking at it.

Why is bridge inspection important?

Apart from inspection of bridge damage caused by unpredictable natural phenomena or collision by vehicles or vessels, inspection is also needed to identify or follow up the effect of any built-in imperfections. Inspection can also help to increase life of older bridges.

What is a principal bridge inspection?

Principal Inspections. A Principal Inspection requires close examination of all inspectable parts of the bridge within touching distance. The in-depth survey includes visual inspections as well as specialist techniques such as hammer tap surveys of concrete, or corrosion measurement.

How do you determine if a bridge is safe?

If your vehicle — and the overall traffic on the bridge — is under the limit, you should be safe to cross. Bridges are declared structurally deficient based on something called “general condition ratings.” These ratings are part of the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS).

How is bridge maintenance done?

Routine maintenance is the annual maintenance done on the basis of routine inspection and includes the following: (i) For concrete structures-protection against exposed reinforcement and repairs to cracks. (ii) Maintenance of bearings and expansion joints. (iv) Maintenance of kerbs, railing etc.

How often should a bridge be maintained?

Wash and clean decking or the entire bridge: One or two years. Lubricate bearings: Two to four years. Seal and waterproof concrete decking: Three to five years.

How often are bridges inspected?

every two years
The “routine” inspection is the most common type of inspection performed and is generally required every two years. The purpose of “routine” inspections is to determine the physical and functional condition of a bridge on a regularly scheduled basis.

How do you inspect a bridge?

6 Methods for Inspecting Bridge Damage and Deterioration

1. Acoustical Techniques. Method: This is a non-destructive technique which is performed using a chain drag or hammer to identify changes in sound pitch.
2. Infrared/Thermal Imaging Inspection.
3. Coring and Chipping.
4. Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR)

What is a routine inspection?

Routine inspection is normally done by either a landlord, property manager or by a maintenance worker to ensure that the property is well taken care of and to identify if there are any maintenance and health issues that may require action. Conducting a thorough routine inspection is a vital part of property management.

What makes a bridge safe?

Good traction underfoot, or under-tyre, is essential for elevated travel, and a well-prepared bridge deck must provide a stable, protective and safe surface.

What makes a bridge functionally obsolete?

Functionally obsolete bridges are those that do not have adequate lane widths, shoulder widths, or vertical clearances to serve current traffic demand, or those that may be occasionally flooded. A functionally obsolete bridge is similar to an older house.

Essential Information. Bridge inspectors evaluate bridge conditions to ensure public safety. Inspectors look for bridge deterioration and damage, and they make recommendations about necessary repairs.

What is a bridge inspector?

A bridge inspector is a civil engineer construction specialist. Inspectors are familiar with the load rating analysis system required for designing bridges, parking garages, and other transportation-related structures.

What does bridge inspection frequency?

Bridge inspection frequency is mandated by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) metrics in their National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and the Code of Federal Regulations. The mandate on a regular frequency of inspection is how we ensure safety.