Bridge inspection according to DIN 1076: regulations, procedure and technology

The partial collapse of the Carola Bridge in Dresden in September 2024 tragically demonstrated the importance of regular bridge inspections .

Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident clearly shows the consequences that undetected damage can have. Bridges are essential components of our infrastructure - their traffic safety and stability must be guaranteed at all times.

Only through careful and forward-looking inspections can risks be minimized and expensive repairs planned in good time. But what is checked during an inspection according to DIN 1076 and how often does this structural inspection take place? We'll explain.

That is why regular inspection of bridges is important

Without regular inspections, damage to bridges can go undetected, increasing the risk of corrosion , material fatigue and, in the worst case, collapse . Such incidents not only endanger human lives, but also lead to significant economic damage and traffic disruption.

Regular structural inspections allow potential weak points to be identified at an early stage. This enables timely maintenance measures to be taken to ensure the durability and stability of the bridge structures and thus guarantee traffic safety.

Information on DIN 1076 for bridge inspections

What is DIN 1076?

DIN 1076 is a standard that sets out the guidelines for monitoring and testing civil engineering structures in the field of road infrastructure. It defines the requirements for structural testing and specifies testing intervals and responsibilities.

How often is testing carried out according to DIN 1076?

The standard distinguishes between different types of tests:

• Main inspection : A comprehensive visual inspection of all components must be carried out every six years .
• Simple inspection : A less detailed inspection takes place every three years between the main inspections.
• Special audit : In special circumstances, such as after exceptional events or in the event of specific suspicions, additional audits are required.

In addition, there are annual inspections , which are carried out as simple visual inspections by the building management or the responsible authorities in order to detect obvious damage at an early stage.

Who is allowed to carry out the bridge inspection according to DIN 1076?

The tests according to DIN 1076 must be carried out by qualified engineers or test experts . Specialized engineering offices , authorities or organizations such as TÜV are often responsible for this.

How does a building inspection according to DIN 1076 work?

What is checked during the inspection?

During the structural inspection, all relevant components of the bridge are examined, including:

1. structures
2. camp
3. transitional structures
4. pier
5. road surfaces

The structure is inspected for corrosion, cracks, deformations and other damage that could affect its stability.

How is the test documented?

The results of the test are documented in detail, including a description of the condition of all components, a photo documentation of abnormalities and an assessment of stability and durability

Which modern tools support bridge inspection?

Drones for bridge inspection: When are they useful?

The use of drones enables the inspection of hard-to-reach areas of a bridge without the need for complex scaffolding structures. They provide high-resolution images and videos that enable precise analysis of the condition. Drones offer an efficient and cost-effective addition to traditional methods, particularly for large engineering structures .

Work platforms for bridge inspection: The best solution?

Mobile work platforms are essential for close-up testing. They allow inspectors to get directly to the components to be examined and inspect them in detail. Renting work platforms offers flexibility and ensures that the right equipment is always available for the respective bridge inspection.

Depending on the structure and access situation, different types of platforms are used:

• Truck-mounted work platforms offer long reach and can be used flexibly, especially for inspections on motorway bridges or large engineering structures.
• Articulated telescopic platforms enable precise overcoming of obstacles, ideal for areas with difficult-to-access pillars or transition structures.
• Scissor lifts are stable and are well suited for visual inspections of noise barriers.
• Underfloor or crawler work platforms are specially designed for inspections beneath bridges and ensure safe inspection of the load-bearing components.

endoscopes and camera systems

Not all components of the bridge are directly visible. Specialized camera systems are essential, especially for transition structures , cavities or joints . Endoscopes and high-resolution cameras make it possible to detect and precisely document even the smallest damage to bridges . By using digital image analysis, changes can be compared over the years, which makes predictive maintenance easier.

measuring instruments for material testing

Various measuring instruments are used to check the load-bearing capacity and condition of the components :

• Ultrasonic testing devices detect cracks and voids in concrete before they are visible to the naked eye.
• Coating thickness gauges measure the corrosion protection on steel in order to detect material fatigue at an early stage.
• Moisture meters help identify hidden water damage or leaks in the bridge structure.

Sensors for structural monitoring

Modern bridges are increasingly equipped with monitoring systems that continuously record measured values.

• Shock sensors monitor vibrations and stress caused by traffic and environmental influences.
• Strain gauges detect material movements and provide information about possible stresses or deformations.
• Automated systems send early warning signals when critical values ​​change, thus minimizing the risk of unforeseen damage.

Especially for bridges in large cities that have great infrastructural importance, this technology offers an additional level of safety and supports engineers in predictive maintenance.

rope access and climbing techniques

Work platforms cannot always be used - for example when bridges cross deep ravines or wide rivers. In such cases, specially trained bridge inspectors use rope access technology to inspect the bridge components directly. This method is particularly useful for pillars , noise barriers or difficult-to-access undersides of the road .

Although rope access is more time consuming than using aerial work platforms , it is often the only way to perform a detailed visual inspection when other means are not practical.

Conclusion: Carry out bridge inspections consistently in accordance with DIN 1076

Regular bridge inspections in accordance with DIN 1076 are essential for the traffic safety and stability of our structures. By using modern tools such as drones and work platforms, inspections can be carried out efficiently and thoroughly.

This is the only way to detect damage at an early stage and plan expensive maintenance measures in advance.

Engineers and contracted companies that are responsible for carrying out bridge inspections can find the right work platforms to rent from us.

We provide individual advice and ensure that the right technology is available for every bridge inspection in accordance with DIN 1076 – reliable, flexible and ready for use nationwide.