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"Visual Inspection . Examination . by
"Visual Inspection . Examination . by
Standard by which all other non-destructive evaluation technologies may be compared No matter how sophisticated and elaborate the analysis and no matter how elegant the algorithms employed, in the final analysis, the recommended decisions are no better than the data upon which they are based.
Significance
By far the most predominant non-destructive evaluation technique. Standard by which all other non-destructive evaluation technologies may be compared reliability of the Visual Inspection
Jack hammer (forensic approach) Core cut Proforma Inspection sheets Crack gauge Camera Thermography Binoculars
Inadequate identification of important structural aspects low or high condition ratings not used Results affected by
Traffic Sight (vision, colour, light) Training, QA system (training with visual aids increased defects detected by 70%) Perceived importance Ease of inspection (Accessibility, structure complexity, pressure/speed, environment, comfort)
Inaccuracies in delamination survey (only 25% of inspectors are within 5% of true value)
Routine Inspection
Must satisfy prescribed frequency and inspector qualifications requirements. Generally conducted from permanent access ways
In-Depth Inspection
Generally completed at longer intervals than Routine Inspections May include the use of NDE techniques. Completed to assess structural damage resulting from environmental or human actions. The scope is unique, with the general goal of assessing the need for further action. A Special Inspection is completed to monitor a known defect or condition.
Damage Inspection
Special Inspection
Inadequate identification of important structural aspects low or high condition ratings not used Results affected by
Traffic Sight (vision, colour, light) Training, QA system (training with visual aids increased defects detected by 70%) Perceived importance Ease of inspection (Accessibility, structure complexity, pressure/speed, environment, comfort)
Inaccuracies in delamination survey (only 25% of inspectors are within 5% of true value)
Test 2
Training No training 4hrs training Visual aids provided Training & visual aids
Record information
Location
Accuracy important
Correct reference location Accurately marked on proforma Use a standard system Simplified internal system recommended Avoid assumptions Make the extra effort to get up close Meaningful descriptions Photographs Subjective assessment not useful if uncontrolled Size does matter
Defect Type
Description
Size
Size of Defects
Tape measure Ruler Micrometer Crack width gauge
49 practicing bridge inspectors 10 different inspection tasks Behaviour during inspection documented General condition rating used 0-9 scale Wide normal distribution of ratings for same bridge
Superstructure Deck condition Substructure 2-7 3-7 4-7