Remote Visual Inspection
Some spaces are hard to get into, and some should not be entered at all. Remote visual inspection puts a camera inside the asset so the internal condition can be seen without anyone going in.
About remote visual inspection
A great deal can be learned about the internal condition of an asset from a good look inside. The difficulty is access, and the risk. Vessels, pipework, ducts and voids are often too small, too enclosed or too hazardous to enter safely.
Remote visual inspection uses borescopes and camera systems to inspect internally without entry. Rigid and flexible borescopes reach into bores, nozzles and small internal spaces, while camera systems on poles or push rods cover larger vessels and ducting, all viewed and recorded from outside the asset.
Because nothing and no one enters the space, remote visual inspection is well suited to hazardous and ATEX-classified areas where entry would introduce ignition risk or demand extensive controls. Every inspection is recorded, so the client receives a clear evidence trail of what was seen and where.
Inspection scope
The right system depends on the asset, the access available and the internal features being examined. Scope commonly includes:
- Internal inspection of vessels, tanks and columns without entry
- Borescope inspection of pipework, nozzles and small bores
- Inspection of ducting, voids and other enclosed spaces
- Assessment of internal corrosion, cracking and coating condition
- Examination of internal welds, fittings and supports
- Inspection of hazardous and ATEX-classified spaces
- Recorded video and still imagery as an evidence trail
Why use remote visual inspection
No entry required
The camera enters the space instead of a person, removing confined space entry and its controls altogether.
Suited to hazardous areas
With nothing entering the space, RVI fits ATEX-classified and hazardous areas where entry raises ignition risk.
A documented evidence trail
Every inspection is recorded, giving a clear account of internal condition for the file and for future comparison.
Fast and low disruption
Internal condition can be checked without the preparation and downtime that entry would require.
Reporting and recommendations
Every remote visual inspection produces a clear report describing the internal condition of the asset, the areas examined and any defects or degradation found, supported by the recorded imagery.
Where a finding needs further attention, we say so and recommend the appropriate next step, whether that is monitoring, more detailed NDT or repair. The recorded footage forms an evidence trail that sits alongside the report, and both are prepared by the inspector who carried out the work.
Related inspection services
Need to inspect inside without entry?
Talk to our team about remote visual inspection for your vessels, pipework and enclosed spaces.