MTO Northwest Region – Underwater Inspections (2022)

OSIM/Underwater Inspections.

MTO Northwestern, Ontario

Doug Dixon & Associates Inc. (DDA) was retained by the MTO Northwest Region to perform underwater inspections of their infrastructure in accordance with the Ontario Structure Inspection Manual (OSIM). A total of nineteen (19) structures consisting of sixteen (16) bridges and three (3) culverts were inspected. DDA provided Project Management Services and the Supervising Engineer for the inspections. DDA was also responsible for providing inspection reports which included rehabilitation and maintenance recommendations. The diving was completed by Canadian Underwater Inspection Services Ltd. (CUIS). DDA completed an initial site reconnaissance to gather valuable information regarding the sites including access, safety and traffic control provisions. During the inspection, DDA supervised the inspections and maintained audio and visual contact with the divers at all times. Following the inspections, DDA completed inspection reports for each structure and provided rehabilitation and maintenance recommendations based on their observations. This specific project posed some challenges due to environmental conditions resulting in abnormally high-water levels during the summer months. DDA and their subconsultant CUIS remained flexible with the schedule and worked with the MTO to ensure that the project was delivered in a safe and timely manner despite the flooding in the area.