The Road Network Inspection Process
The goal of an inspection process is to gather as much relevant data as possible.
Here are 9 steps to follow to get the most out of an inspection program.
1. Preliminaries
The first task is to decide on a plan of action for inspection of the network. Particular sections of the network and the extent of survey inspection is decided at this stage. Will it be the whole network or a representative sample? Decisions on ongoing inspections will also be made to address the rest of the network over an appropriate period of time.
Factors to consider when choosing the level of inspection sophistication include the available resources, types of inspection technology, costs, level of condition data, information collection techniques and how repeatable the process is.
2. Pre-inspection process
One of the primary outcomes from gathering information on road assets is to develop a whole-of-life cost that spans at least 20 years. This should consider initial backlog maintenance and longer-term capital expenditure required.
Survey packs should have as much data as possible from existing sources and prior to starting the physical inspection. It should include all information relevant to that particular road network.
3. Segmentation
At this stage, the road network is categorised into manageable segments to represent uniform sections of road. Segments are to represent sections of road that have the same surface characteristics, same width for most of the segment, same age/year of construction, with similar condition, alignment, and shoulder conditions.
4. Role of assessor/inspector
The assessor/inspector must ensure that data is complete, reliable, and accurate. Training and calibration seminars should also be held for assessors. Additionally, a practical training session to educate assessors on how to fill in the assessment forms and independently evaluate each of the selected segment would be beneficial and provide an opportunity to discuss any major discrepancies to achieve an acceptable level of consistency in ratings.
5. Inspection frequency
The frequency of condition inspections depends on the organisation’s need for up-to-date data and requirements to meet compliance obligations. To determine inspection frequencies, it is suggested that higher function sealed roads should be inspected every 1-3 years. Unsealed roads should be inspected at least on an annual basis at the same time each year.
6. Workplace health and safety
It is the Asset Manager’s responsibility to ensure that inspecting staff are adequately briefed and equipped to fully comply with WHS provisions, including any additional precautions specified by the asset owner.
7. Assessing the segments/components
Condition grading will be used to calculate the possible future remaining life for each component assessed. There are various methods to this, and it is up to the experience, skill and judgement of assessors who must make an accurate and consistent assessment of conditions.
8. Condition survey data
The following data need to be collected: segments/components identified, condition grade, defects and assessed remaining life, quantity, unit and replacement rate, confidence grades, location, comments, and digital photographs/video.
9. Writing standard work orders
These relate to issues that need to be brought to the attention of the asset managers for more urgent attention within a shorter timeframe. Inspectors should identify any works that, if left in its current condition, would have a detrimental effect on the asset, become a safety compliance issue, or possibly have an adverse effect on the service.
