Bridge inspections shall fall into one or more of the following categories:
There are two (2) types of general inspections, ''biennial inspections'' and ''interim inspections'' as follows:
A program of scheduled special inspections may be substituted for interim inspections. In such cases, the inspection scope, schedule and findings must be documented and clearly demonstrate that the basis that is the cause for an interim inspection is being addressed. In no case shall such special inspections occur at an interval exceeding that required by an interim inspection.
Diving inspections may be performed as part of a general inspection, in-depth inspection, special inspection or as an independent inspection effort. When making determinations on the need for diving inspection, it must be recognized that bridges are constructed of differing structural configurations and situated in widely varying environments . This results in varying degrees of inspection difficulty, complexity, structural redundancy and structural sensitivity. Portions of the diving inspection criteria intentionally leave discretion to provide for proper bridge-by-bridge evaluation of the above and other factors in determining the need f or a diving inspection.
Diving inspections shall be performed at maximum inspection intervals of sixty (60) months. However, it shall be determined, on a bridge-bybridge basis, if a ''complete'' or ''partial'' diving inspection is needed on a more frequent basis. If it is determined that more frequent diving inspections are needed, they shall be scheduled.
Due to the wide variability of situations and conditions requiring a special inspection, there can be no predetermined schedule or frequency interval for the performance of special inspections. Frequency intervals are determined based on the particular parameters of the different situations and conditions under consideration.
N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. Tit. 17 § 165.4