Thoroughness
As important as any other aspect of the inspection process, the inspection must be thorough.
It is fair to say that this takes time. Even small, relatively simple bridges in good condition cannot possibly be inspected, imaged and documented in less than an hour. Subsequent data entry and generation of a report will take another 2 to 3 hours at the very least. If the bridge is in poor condition this can be multipied several fold.
The following are reasonable rules of thumb for the inspection, data processing and report generation of a single bridge structure:
| Condition | Site Time (not incl. travel) | Data Handling and Reporting* |
| Good | 1 hr / $5 mill replacement value, min. 1 hr | site time x 2 |
| Fair | 1 hr / $5 mill replacement value, min. 1 hr | site time x 2 |
| Poor | 2 hrs / $5 mill replacement value, min 2 hrs | site time x 2.5** |
| Very Poor | Site Dependant | site time x 3** |
* If site time is significantly extended due to acess restrictions or other circumstances
data handling and reporting may be somewhat less than indicated.
** allowance made for increased involvement by senior staff.