Project Overview
As prime consultant, Collins has been working on two consecutive MassDOT ancillary structure inspection contracts that have included the inventory, field inspection, non-destructive evaluation and condition evaluation reporting of highway signs, ITS, signals, and lighting structures throughout the Commonwealth. To date, Collins has completed the inventory, inspection, and non-destructive evaluation of over 7,700 ancillary structures for MassDOT.
SCOPE OF WORK
- Creation of access database for statewide inspection reporting prior to BMS 4D module coming online
- Inventory services to establish structure location and assign a unique identification number
- Field inspections using conventional access methods, such as bucket trucks, and advanced methods, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), to determine the condition of all components of the structure, including, but not limited to, all connections, anchor rods, foundations, posts/towers, arms/trusses, sign/VMS panels and associated connection hardware, and gusset plates
- Establishment of geometric data, such as span length, minimum vertical clearance, and the bolt pattern for the structure base(s)
- Non-destructive evaluation, including ultrasonic testing of anchor rods, D-meter testing of posts, and dye penetrant testing of welded connections
- Temporary traffic control
- Emergency inspections for vehicular damage or advanced deterioration to various structures
Sign structures have consisted of various post/tower and arm/truss configurations. Lighting structures have included single and double arm light standards. High mast structures and signal structures have been mast arm, span wire, and various single-pole type. ITS structures have been VMS, camera and RTMS type structures with various structural configurations.
A full hands-on inspection has been completed on all structures except for high mast light (HML) structures, which were inspected via UAS. Collins worked with MassDOT Highway and Aeronautics Divisions to develop a system to safely coordinate UAS operations and verify pilot qualifications prior to field operations.
Additionally, inspections have included the ultrasonic testing of anchor rods on all structures (where applicable), encompassing approximately 24,000 anchor rods, to-date. An electronic thickness gauge (D-meter) is used to test for indications of section loss, and dye penetrant is used to test for suspected weld cracks. Prior to inspections, Collins provides full coordination with MassDOT District Offices, including weekly plans, roadway work notification forms, and daily logs. This ensures the most efficient and effective completion of services. Maintenance notifications are prepared for deficiencies that require prompt attention and condition assessment reports in the 4D Bridge Inspection/Asset Management System. Collins has provided emergency response inspection and design repair services on multiple occasions, often mobilizing crews either the same or next day. One event required Collins to inspect 40 cantilever sign structures on a major interstate thoroughfare; this was completed in less than two weeks.