Bridge and Overpass Inspection
Bridge and overpass inspection is a key stage for ensuring traffic safety, extending the service life of structures, and planning repair works. This procedure includes a set of technical and engineering measures aimed at determining the actual condition of structural elements and their compliance with regulatory requirements.
What Is Bridge and Overpass Inspection?
Inspection is a specialized engineering procedure during which diagnostic assessment of bridge structure elements is performed: supports, spans, expansion joints, sidewalks, barrier systems, roadway surface, and other components.
Based on the results, a technical report is prepared with conclusions on the condition of the structure and recommendations for further use, repair, or reconstruction.
When Is Inspection Required?
According to current regulations and industry standards (e.g. DSTU-N B V.2.3-23:2013, DBN V.2.3-14:2006), inspections must be carried out in the following cases:
- Periodically — according to the operational maintenance schedule;
- Before major repairs or reconstruction;
- After accidents, emergencies, or natural disasters;
- When operating conditions change (load increase, change of functional purpose);
- When commissioning new or reconstructed structures.
Types of Bridge and Overpass Inspections
1. Visual inspection
Performed to detect visible defects such as cracks, deformation, corrosion, and settlement. Provides a preliminary assessment.
2. Detailed (instrumental) inspection
Geodetic, physical-mechanical, and laboratory methods are used to obtain precise data on structural condition.
3. Follow-up (control) inspection
Performed after repairs or when additional diagnostic clarification is needed.
What Does the Service Include?
GlobalBud Ukraine provides a full-service turnkey bridge and overpass inspection, which includes:
- Preparation and approval of the technical assignment;
- Site visit by engineers and experts;
- Visual and instrumental inspection;
- Geodetic and geophysical measurements;
- Sampling of materials (concrete, reinforcement, etc.) for laboratory testing;
- Analysis of design and technical documentation;
- Preparation of a technical report with recommendations;
- Consultations on repair, reconstruction, or operational restrictions.
Regulatory Framework
Bridge and overpass inspection is conducted in accordance with:
- Law of Ukraine “On Regulation of Urban Development Activity”;
- DSTU-N B V.2.3-23:2013 “Guidelines for Assessing the Technical Condition of Highway Bridges”;
- DBN V.2.3-14:2006 “Highways. Bridges and Culverts”;
- other applicable standards and regulations.
Common Issues Identified During Inspection
- Corrosion of metal elements;
- Concrete delamination and cracking;
- Hydro-insulation deterioration;
- Support and span deformations;
- Loss of load-bearing capacity of individual elements;
- Clogging of drainage systems.
Typical Mistakes by Clients Without Professional Assistance
- Ignoring scheduled inspections — causing emergency situations;
- Ordering only a visual inspection without instrumental verification;
- Hiring unlicensed organizations;
- Lack of design documentation analysis;
- Failure to comply with diagnostic procedures.
Conclusions
Regular and professional bridge and overpass inspection is essential for preventing accidents, reducing repair costs, and ensuring safe operation of transport infrastructure.
GlobalBud Ukraine offers a full range of technical inspection services, including geodetic and laboratory studies. We work with private and corporate clients, including foreign companies. Our specialists are certified and equipped to perform tasks of any complexity.
Contact GlobalBud Ukraine
Planning repairs, reconstruction, or commissioning of a bridge structure? Contact GlobalBud Ukraine — we provide professional inspection, legal support, and engineering solutions that comply with regulatory requirements.
