Handbook for Bridge Inspections - TSP2

7 Surveys, Materials
Tests & Instrumentation
7.1 General
It may be necessary to supplement visual checks by surveys, mat e~
rials testing and instrumentation in order to find a better basis for
determining the extent orany damage, its cause, degree and consequences
or for uncovering hidden damage.
Scope
The scope of these measurements and investigations must be evaluated
in every case and will depend on:
* The type of inspection
• The type ofhridge
• The type o f materials lIsed
• Wear caused by the climate
• Visual observations
In order to carry out such measurements and in vestigations in a
focused manner one should have a clear picture of their need and
uti litarian value. For the sake of appearance, thi s is advisabl e with
regard to the costs and the possib ly destructive measures employed.
An overview of which surveys and material s testing can be undertaken
in connection with the different types of inspections can be
found in Table 7. 1-1. Provided the prescribed measurements and
materials testing have been documented at the building stage,
these do not require to be repeated for a completion survey.
Special Routines
Special routines may have been pu t into effect for certain bridges
in connection with surveys, materials testing and/or surveillance
by instruments. This will become evident from the inspecti on plan
in BRUTUS International.
Several of the surveys and materials in vestigations require special
routines and additional quality assurance. Often special competence
and equipment are also needed. Such is always the case for the
installation of surveillance instruments. Refer also to Chapler 8
- Reporting of Inspection Results.