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Bridge Inspectors

BICS 2025

An improved Certification Scheme

Overview and benefits of BICS

Lantra runs an international certification scheme for Bridge Inspectors and Senior Bridge Inspectors. The scheme is operated on behalf of the UK Bridges Board and is supported by the Bridge Owners Forum. It is one of the most widely used National Highway Sector Schemes in the UK and has the full support of the Department of Transport (DfT).  

 

The Bridge Inspector Certification Scheme covers detailed competencies around the inspection of common structure forms and materials, focusing largely on bridge, retaining wall and culvert assets constructed from masonry, steel and concrete, as well as awareness of other less common materials and assets.

 

The benefits of the scheme include:

Proof of competence

 

This scheme provides clarity on the experience and skills required by bridge inspectors, for Inspectors and Senior Inspectors. It also assists bridge owners to specify the skills required, both internally and externally

 

Formalisation of knowledge and experience required by inspectors

 

This ensures inspectors are effectively trained resulting in improved levels of consistency when undertaking inspections and capturing defects, as well more informative and accurate inspection reports and interpretation of results

 

Recognition

 

The profile/standing of bridge inspectors through the introduction of a nationally recognised scheme will be elevated. The different levels of competence also provide a structured career progression path, which will assist in staff retention and long-term capture of vital knowledge

 

Transferrable skills

 

Increased flexibility for organisations with the ability to move inspection staff around and share them with other sectors

 

A structured approach to promoting continued learning of Bridge Inspectors

 

Up to date developments and innovation within the industry can be identified where relevant for use in inspections

 

 

 

 

 

BICS 2025: An improved Certification Scheme  

This exciting development was officially unveiled at the Bridges 2024 Conference in Glasgow during a special presentation by Niall McKay, BICS Chairperson, on Thursday, 28th November 2024. The improved certification scheme, launched January 2025, introduces advanced training modules, updated standards, and enhanced competencies to meet the evolving challenges of maintaining critical infrastructure. It reflects BICS' unwavering commitment to fostering expertise, safety, and professionalism across the bridge inspection community.

 

 

 

Trainee Inspector

 

 

  • e-Card £50

Associate Bridge Inspector

 

 

  • Knowledge Test £100
  • e-Card £50

Bridge Inspector (progressing from ABI)

 

 

  • e-Portfolio review £250
  • Interview £250
  • e-Card £50

Bridge Inspector (direct entry)

 

 

  • Knowledge Test £100
  • e-Portfolio review £250
  • Interview £250
  • e-Card £50

Senior Bridge Inspector (Progressing from ABI)

 

 

  • e-Portfolio review £250
  • Interview £250
  • e-Card £50

Senior Bridge Inspector (direct entry)

 

 

  • Knowledge Test £100
  • e-Portfolio review £250
  • Interview £250
  • e-Card £50

BICS (Pre-2025)

Candidate Guidance
Certified Members
Assessor information

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the old and new scheme?

Whilst the old scheme continues to be available for those already registered, the expectation is that all future inspectors coming onboard will be directed to the new BICS 2025 scheme.

If I am a certified Bridge Inspector from the original system, how do I become Senior Bridge Inspector in the new system?

No Knowledge Based Test (KBT) will be required.  You will be issued the new style e-Portfolio covering the experience and proficiency levels appropriate to Senior Bridge Inspector (SBI).  It is worth noting that there are less units in the new style e-Portfolio.

If a candidate is already well progressed with the e-portfolio but wants to change to the new Scheme, will they still be able to access/download what they have already entered into the previous e-portfolio?

Yes, this information can be downloaded to an excel spreadsheet and then used to help populate the new e-Portfolio.

Have any questions?

 

Get in touch

 

bridges@Lantra.co.uk