Handbook for Bridge Inspections - TSP2

6.2.2 Visual Checking
The visual inspection should be carried out in the same way as for
a Major Inspection - see Chapter 6.4.2. Any inspecti ons of the
cables or underwater foundations should conform to Chapters
6.5.2 and 6.6.2.
6.3 Generallnspection
6.3.1 Scope
A General Inspections encompasses a simple visual check of all
elements above water level. As much of the foundati ons below
water level should be checked as is possible w ithout employing a
diver. In addition, any specia l checks a lready detailed on (he
inspection fonn should be carried out. Generally speaking, measurements
o r materia ls testing are not required for General
Inspections. However, the presence of serious rutting may render
measurements necessary to check whether there is a risk of the
dampness insulation being perforated.
The least that must be recorded during a General Inspection is
damage req uiring repair before the next inspection, i.e. in practice
damage assessed w ith Degrees of Damage 3 and 4. Refer to
Chapter 8.2 for the submission of reports.
6.3.2 Basic General I nspection
This is a Basic Visual Inspection without the use of access equipment,
i.e. most of the clements of a large bridge w ill have to be
inspected at a distance. Neverthe less, binoculars should be used
should certain details require to be looked at more closely.
Underwater binoculars may be of assistance when inspecting
items below the surface oftne water.
Ground
During a Visual Inspection each element should be checked
for the presence of serious damage - refer to the list below. For
damage assessment please see C hapter 9 Damage Evaluation
Catalogue.
* Settlement o f the ground undemeath the carriageway up against
the abutment piers
* Erosion of the embankment around the abutment pi ers due to
surface water
* More serious underwater damage caused by erosion which can
be detected without using a di ver
* Damage to embankment retaining walls
* Unintentional removal or fi lling up ofloose material in the regi
on of the foundations
* Damming up of driftwood whi ch reduces the water flow
* Unwanted vegetation and trees
* Accumulation of combustible material s under the bridge
* Damage to piles above the waterline
Handbook for Bridge Inspections 63