Stroma Specialist Access provides bridge inspection services across highways, rail, and complex infrastructure assets throughout the UK, delivering accurate condition assessments to support compliance, asset management, and long-term maintenance planning.
Specialist Bridge Inspections with Stroma
Bridge inspections are critical to maintaining the safety, performance, and longevity of infrastructure assets. At Stroma Specialist Access, we deliver comprehensive bridge inspection services across highways, rail, and complex structures, combining specialist access techniques with advanced testing methods.
Our experienced team provides accurate, actionable data to support asset management, compliance, and long-term maintenance planning. Whether supporting routine bridge inspections or complex structural assessments, we ensure minimal disruption while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Comprehensive Bridge Inspection Services
We deliver the full range of bridge inspection types in line with UK standards and National Highways requirements, including:
- General Inspections
- Principal Inspections
- Visual Inspections
- Detailed Inspections
- Inspection for Assessment
- Special Inspections
Each inspection is tailored to the structure, operating environment, and client requirements, ensuring the appropriate level of detail and reporting to support informed decision-making.
Contact us today to request a quote and discuss your requirements. Our team is ready to help!
Structural Assessment and Testing Capabilities
To provide a complete understanding of asset condition, we combine visual inspections with advanced structural testing techniques.
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
We carry out a range of non-destructive testing methods in accordance with CS 464, including:
- Half-cell potential testing
- Cover meter surveys
- Ferroscan Surveys
- Electrical resistivity testing
- Ultrasonic thickness measurement
- Tensile and compressive strength surveys
- Structural monitoring
- Pull-off testing
- Rebound Schmidt hammer tests
- Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
These techniques allow us to assess internal conditions without damaging the structure, supporting accurate diagnosis and long-term maintenance planning.
Materials and Structural Testing
Our additional testing capabilities include:
- Delamination surveys
- Petrographic analysis
- Sulphates and alkali analysis
- Chloride ion content
- Cement content
- Carbonation testing
- Bridge half-joint special inspections
- Bearing inspections
This combination of methods provides a detailed understanding of structural integrity, material performance, and potential defects, giving clients greater confidence in the condition of their assets.
Our Specialist Access Solutions
Access is often one of the biggest challenges in bridge inspection. Our team is equipped to safely reach all areas of a structure, regardless of complexity.
We provide:
- Rope access inspections (IRATA-qualified technicians)
- Confined space access
- MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms)
- Pontoon and over-water access
- Mobile scaffold towers (Aluminium and GRP)
- Safety boats in accordance with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
By integrating specialist access and bridge inspection services, we reduce the need for multiple contractors, improving efficiency and safety on site while helping to minimise project delays and disruption.
Qualified and Accredited Bridge Inspectors
Our UK bridge inspectors are highly trained and certified professionals, including:
- BICS-certified inspectors
- Level 5 National Highways Passport Scheme Inspectors
- STE4 Examiners
Stroma clients can have peace of mind that all work is delivered in line with industry standards and client requirements.
Why Choose Stroma Specialist Access?
- Integrated inspection and access solutions
- Advanced testing methods and equipment
- Experienced, certified bridge inspection teams
- Ability to work in complex and high-risk environments
- Clear, accurate reporting to support decision-making
If you require bridge inspection services or support with a specific project, our team is ready to help!
Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bridge inspection?
A bridge inspection is a structured assessment of a bridge's condition. It identifies defects, deterioration, and potential risks to help ensure the structure remains safe, serviceable, and compliant with relevant industry standards.
What are the different types of bridge inspections in the UK?
Bridge inspections in the UK typically include General, Principal, Visual, Detailed, Inspection for Assessment, and Special Inspections. The type of bridge inspection required depends on the structure, its condition, and any applicable regulatory or client requirements.
How often should a bridge be inspected in the UK?
Inspection frequency depends on the asset owner and governing standards. General Inspections are typically carried out every 2 years, while Principal Inspections are usually undertaken every 6 years. On rail infrastructure, Visual Examinations are commonly completed annually, with Detailed Examinations carried out every 6 years.
What is included in a Principal Inspection and Detailed Exam?
A Principal Inspection or Detailed Examination involves a close assessment of all accessible parts of a bridge. These bridge inspection services often require specialist access techniques to examine structural elements in detail and identify defects that may not be visible during routine inspections.
What is non-destructive testing (NDT) in bridge inspections?
Non-destructive testing (NDT) uses techniques such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), half-cell potential testing, and electrical resistivity testing to assess the condition of a bridge without causing damage to the structure.
Do bridge inspections in the UK require road closures?
Not always. Using specialist access methods such as rope access, UK bridge inspectors can often complete inspections with minimal disruption. However, traffic management or temporary road closures may be required in some circumstances.
What access methods are used for bridge inspections?
Bridge inspectors use a range of access methods, including rope access, MEWPs, scaffolding, pontoons, and confined space entry. The most appropriate method is selected based on the bridge structure, surrounding environment, and inspection requirements.
What qualifications do UK bridge inspectors need?
Bridge inspectors in the UK typically hold qualifications such as BICS certification, National Highways Passport Scheme accreditation, or STE4 certification, depending on the type of inspection being carried out.
Additional competencies may include confined space training, SSSTS, IPAF, CSCS, CPCS, NRSWA, manual handling, RYA qualifications, outdoor first aid, PA1 Safe Handling of Pesticides, PA6 Safe Application of Handheld Equipment, and Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross Cutting and Level 2 Felling & Processing Trees up to 380mm.