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Structural Inspections

Structural Inspections

Large-scale structure inspection programs using drones, ROVs, 360° cameras, and traditional methods.

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Sterling's Approach

Portfolio-Scale Inspection Delivery with Advanced Technologies

Sterling has delivered Australia-wide structure inspections for ARTC since 2019, covering more than 25,000 structures all across the national freight rail network. We use specialised structure inspectors with modern data and image capture tools including drones, ROVs (remotely operated vehicles), 360-degree cameras with LiDAR, and traditional engineering inspection methods to document comprehensive condition data.

Our inspection approach leverages digital technologies to minimise network impact and enhance safety. We have completed over 100 structural inspections using drones in the last year, including 21 Transurban (VIC) bridges such as Bolte Bridge and Western Link Elevated viaduct. ROV technology enables underwater and confined space inspections, assessing riverbed substrate around bridge piers, scour and exposed foundations, and culvert conditions where ceiling clearance or dangerous fauna (crocodiles, snakes) prevent diver entry.

360-degree camera inspections with LiDAR integration provide comprehensive visual documentation of tunnels and confined spaces, reducing inspection time and costs while improving safety through remote assessment capabilities. All inspection methodologies comply with ONRSR requirements for risk-based, traceable condition assessments.

Sterling's inspection services integrate with our asset modelling frameworks, all ARTC bridges are GIS-mapped with location tagging, load-rated for "as new" and "as is" conditions, and modelling identifies trends and opportunities for maintenance and renewal.

Technical Capabilities

Structural Inspection Capabilities

From traditional engineering inspections to advanced digital capture

→Large-scale inspection programs at portfolio scale (25,000+ ARTC structures)
→Drone-assisted inspections (100+ completed in last year, 21 Transurban bridges)
→ROV (remotely operated vehicle) inspections for underwater and confined spaces
→360-degree camera with LiDAR integration for tunnels and confined spaces
→Traditional engineering inspections (Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 assessments)
→GIS mapping with location tagging for all inspected assets
→Load rating assessments ("as new" and "as is" conditions)
→Condition grading aligned with client asset management systems
→Integration with asset modelling frameworks for trend analysis
→Compliance with ONRSR regulatory requirements
Deliverables & Value

Inspection Outputs and Portfolio Intelligence

Comprehensive condition data at scale

Deliverables

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Condition Assessment Reports
Engineering inspection reports with defect identification, condition grading, risk assessment, and recommended intervention timing — aligned with client asset management systems and regulatory requirements.
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GIS-Mapped Asset Registers
All inspected structures mapped with location tagging, enabling spatial analysis, corridor-level condition trending, and integration with client GIS platforms.
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Load Rating Assessments
Structural capacity calculations for "as new" (design condition) and "as is" (current deteriorated condition) states, supporting safe operational load decisions and renewal timing.
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Digital Inspection Imagery
High-resolution drone photography, ROV footage, 360-degree camera captures, and LiDAR point clouds providing permanent visual records for future comparison and desktop analysis.

Value Delivered

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Proven at National Scale — 25,000+ ARTC Structures
Australia-wide structure inspection program for ARTC since 2019 demonstrates capability to deliver consistent methodologies, quality standards, and data management across state boundaries and diverse structure types.
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100+ Drone Inspections in Last Year
Completed drone-assisted inspections for 21 Transurban (VIC) bridges including Bolte Bridge, Western Link Elevated viaduct, Gardiner's Creek Viaduct, and Yarra River Crossing — proving capability on high-value, operationally critical infrastructure.
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Advanced Technologies Reducing Network Disruption
ROV inspections eliminate diver entry and water draw downs. Drone inspections reduce lane closures and track occupations. 360° cameras minimise confined space entry risks. Combined, these technologies deliver safer, faster inspections with less operational impact.

Standards & Compliance

→AS/ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems
→AS/ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems
→AS/ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health & Safety Management
→ONRSR (Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator) compliance
→CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) drone operation compliance
→Board of Professional Engineers Queensland registration
Frequently Asked

Common Questions About Structural Inspections

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