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Underwater Structural Surveys

Underwater Structural Surveys

Underwater Structural Surveys play a critical role in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of anything that is located in or on the water. As a specialist in marine structural engineering, our company is dedicated to conducting comprehensive assessments of various underwater structures, including things like open piled jetties, fendering, sheet piled walls, quay walls, dock gates and slipways. Read on as we delve into the significance of structural dive surveys and how they contribute to maintaining the integrity of marine infrastructure.

The Importance of Underwater Structural Surveys:

Marine structures are constantly exposed to harsh conditions, including corrosion, erosion, and tidal forces. Without regular inspections, these structures can deteriorate over time, unnoticed, posing significant risks to people, shipping and the environment. Structural dive inspections allow us to assess the condition of underwater infrastructure, identify potential defects or weaknesses, and design necessary repairs or maintenance measures.

Our Approach:

At AWA Engineering, we use advanced technologies and methodologies to conduct thorough underwater structural inspections with Ed Ellis, our Principal Marine engineer. Ed has a master’s degree in civil maritime engineering and HSE diving qualifications, and is supported on-site by a 5-man dive team. One of the key tools in our arsenal is the ultrasonic CYGNUS device, which enables us to accurately measure thickness readings of steel structures underwater. This technology provides us with valuable data on the condition of steel components, allowing us to assess their integrity and detect any signs of corrosion or degradation.

Underwater Structural Surveys Diver

Diver exiting the water following a structural inspection of a blockwork quay wall.

Compliance:

Some inspection dives are conducted by divers, but we are structural engineers and use the same principles as you would be surveying any structure above ground. All dives are carried out under the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) diving at work regulations, complete with risk assessments and method statements and any necessary permits to dive.

Underwater Structural Surveys Challenges and Considerations:

The biggest challenge is weather, rough weather could make recovery difficult and also hampers visibility. We can dive up to a depth of 50m inshore, but most inshore work tends to be around 20m or less. Thankfully Ed and his team have never not been able to conduct a dive!

Underwater Structural Surveys findings

Area of full section loss due to MIC corrosion, identified during an inspection on a steel piled jetty.

Data Collection and Application:

Depending on the project scope, we can report back to the client as soon as the next day, or up to several weeks, depending on the scale of the inspection and the volume remedial design work required. Marine dive surveys serve a wide array of industries, including port and waterway authorities ensuring the safety and efficiency of maritime operations through inspections of docks, berths and moorings. Military naval forces rely on dive surveys for security checks and maintenance of underwater installations. Marina owners use surveys to assess the condition of their facilities, while individual homeowners and housing associations with waterfront properties often require evaluations of seawalls and underwater structures.

In conclusion, Underwater Structural Surveys are an essential tool for maintaining the integrity and safety of underwater infrastructure in the UK. As specialists in marine structural engineering, AWA Engineering is dedicated to conducting thorough and accurate assessments of underwater structures, using advanced technologies. By prioritising regular inspections and proactive maintenance, we help our clients mitigate risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and prolong the lifespan of their marine assets.

Do you need the services of our Underwater Structural Surveys?

Contact us today to learn more about our marine dive survey services and how we can support your underwater infrastructure needs. Call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team. Alternatively, email Ed directly on ed.ellis@awaengineers.com.

Why choose AWA

AWA is a structural engineering and civil engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.

Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.

AWA has chartered engineers in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients across the South, South East and South West.

Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.

Contact us today

To find out more about how AWA can help with your project, get in touch today. Call 01794 524447 (Romsey) or 01225 251498 (Bath)  to speak to a member of our team. Alternatively, email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch.

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