What are typical signs of deterioration inspectors look for on steel girders?

• A. Visible rust, section loss, cracking, corrosion around connections, coating delamination.
• B. Only discoloration of the paint.
• C. Leakage from bearings.
• D. Excessive noise from the girders.

Answer: (A)

Inspectors look for visual and material signs that a steel girder’s strength may be compromised. The most telling indicators are rust and corrosion, loss of cross‑section (section loss), cracking in the member, corrosion around connections (where joints and welds are located), and coating delamination (protective coating separating from the steel). Together, these signs point to reduced capacity and potential failure if not addressed.

Discoloration of paint alone isn’t a definitive indicator of structural deterioration, and leakage from bearings or excessive noise relate to other components or symptoms rather than direct signs of deterioration in the steel girder itself.