Inspection & Assessment for Bridges, Viaducts and Footbridges
Keep your structure safe, reliable, and available
Bridges are exposed to constant stress: traffic loads, weather, time, and sometimes, unexpected events. Regular inspection, assessment and monitoring are essential to ensure structural safety, detect issues early, and make informed decisions about maintenance or intervention.
At VSL, we provide advanced inspection and monitoring services for bridges and cable-supported structures. From routine visual checks to in-depth diagnostic campaigns and long-term health monitoring, our teams help you stay in control of your assets.
Our specialized inspection services to support your bridge
We combine hands-on inspections with the latest technology to detect corrosion, fatigue, mechanical damage, or other deterioration.
- Visual inspections at arm’s length by competent inspectors
- Automated robotic cameras and drone-based surveys
- Damage mapping using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and muon-flux tomography
- Ultrasonic void detection and tendon anchorage integrity checks
- Endoscopic inspection of tendon anchorages and ducts
- Magnetic flux to detect wire breaks
- Acoustic emission monitoring (AEM)
- Tendon force measurement and vibration analysis (VSL Vibratest)
- Sampling and chemical testing (chlorides, carbonation)
We operate in live environments with safe access solutions (platforms, rope access, robotics) adapted to each site.
You receive detailed reports, digital records, and expert recommendations for follow-up actions based on decades of global experience.
We install customized smart monitoring systems to track the real-time behavior of critical components, cables, tendons, joints, bearings, or entire bridges.
Our SHM services help to:
- Detect anomalies and degradation trends early
- Extend asset service life with data-informed decisions
- Monitor structural response to loads or environmental conditions
- Support asset management planning and budget forecasting
Our smart monitoring solutions can include:
- Sensors (strain, displacement, corrosion, humidity, etc.)
- Data acquisition and wireless transmission
- Remote dashboards and alerts
- Integration into asset management systems
- Full integration with replacement bearings, PT tendons and cable stays
Pioneering technologies, with key innovation partners
We actively partner with startups to push the boundaries of what’s possible in non-invasive bridge inspection. Together, these technologies help detect hidden issues, without cutting or drilling way beyond what visual inspection can achieve.
Why choose VSL for the inspection of your structure?
End-to-end capabilities
From inspection to repair, VSL offers integrated support based on over 60 years of bridge expertise.Cutting-edge technologies
We use proprietary methods like Vibratest™, automated camera robots, and advanced NDT tools to deliver accurate results.Global teams, local execution
Our engineers and technicians are VSL-trained, operating across 30+ countries to ensure consistent quality and fast response.Proven experience
We regularly perform inspection campaigns on iconic bridges worldwide, often in challenging environments.
FAQs about Bridge Inspection and Assessment
Bridge inspection frequency depends on local regulations, structure type, and exposure conditions. In general, basic visual inspections are performed every one to two years, with detailed condition assessments every five to six years or after major events.
We combine traditional visual surveys with advanced diagnostics – including ground-penetrating radar (GPR), ultrasonic and magnetic flux testing, endoscopic inspections, and AI-powered muon tomography through our partnership with GScan.
SHM uses sensors and data acquisition systems to continuously track the performance of key bridge components such as tendons, cables, bearings, and joints. It enables early detection of anomalies, supports maintenance planning, and helps extend service life.
Yes. VSL specializes in safe access solutions – such as rope access, platforms, robotics, and drones – allowing inspection and monitoring while the bridge remains in service, minimizing disruption to users.
With over 60 years of experience, VSL integrates design expertise, proprietary diagnostic tools (like Vibratest™), and innovative technologies from partners such as Bridgology and GScan. This ensures more accurate data, fewer interventions, and smarter maintenance decisions.