Recent developments in inspection and testing for infrastructure

This paper presents partial background material for the report of the Inspection and Testing Sub-Committee of the CSCE Technical Committee on Rehabilitation of Infrastructure. Inspection and testing play a very important role in the design of a cost effective maintenance program and/or for rehabilitation of infrastructure. The available technical literature is being reviewed presently to develop standard inspection and testing techniques, with emphasis on clear definition of the various defects and distresses in different type of infrastructure. The subcommittee will aim to develop a computerized inventory for each type of infrastructure, dealing with the various rehabilitation needs. The detailed inspection and testing procedures and development of inventories will be included in a practical guide to assist with improved management of infrastructure. This summary paper outlines the inspection philosophy with emphasis on the more recent testing procedures for review and comments by Committee members and by practising engineers and other engineering personnel involved in the commission and execution of repair works.