NBIS Routine Bridge Inspection

Inspection Setup & Interval

Confirm the inspection is authorized, scheduled, and staffed per NBIS.

• Is the routine inspection being performed within the assigned interval (max 24 months, or the risk-based interval established per 23 CFR 650.311)? *
• Is the inspection led by a qualified Team Leader meeting NBIS qualification requirements? *
• Date of this inspection *
• National Bridge Inventory (NBI) structure number *
• Was the previous inspection report and prior condition ratings reviewed before field work? *

Deck (NBI Item 58)

• Deck condition rating (0-9) *
• Is the wearing surface free of significant delamination, spalling, or potholing that threatens ride or safety? *
• Are deck drains and scuppers open and functioning?
• Are deck joints functioning without excessive leakage onto the substructure below? *
• Photograph representative deck condition

Superstructure (NBI Item 59)

• Superstructure condition rating (0-9) *
• Are primary members (girders, beams, trusses) free of section loss, cracking, or distortion beyond documented limits? *
• Are bearings functioning and free of excessive movement, tipping, or corrosion? *
• Are fracture-critical members, if present, inspected on the required hands-on interval? *
• Note any observed member deficiencies

Substructure (NBI Item 60)

• Substructure condition rating (0-9) *
• Are abutments and piers free of undermining, settlement, or rotation? *
• Is there evidence of concrete cracking, spalling, or exposed/corroded reinforcing at bents and columns?
• Are backwalls and wingwalls stable without excessive lateral movement? *

Channel & Scour (NBI Items 61 & 71)

• Channel and channel protection condition rating (0-9) *
• Scour critical bridges rating (Item 113) status confirmed and consistent with field observation? *
• Is there observed scour, undermining, or exposed foundations at piers/abutments? *
• Is the Plan of Action (POA) for scour-critical structures on file and current, if applicable?

Findings & Reporting

• Are any critical findings present that require immediate notification per the agency critical findings procedure? *
• Is a load posting or restriction warranted based on observed condition? *
• Overall bridge sufficiency/condition summary
• Team Leader signature *