Remote inspection: what works, and where boots on the ground still matter

Remote techniques are maturing fast. We look at the right mix of remote and on-site assurance.

Video-guided inspection and witness testing have moved from emergency measure to everyday tool.

Remote methods excel for document review, visual checks and witnessing standard tests. They are less suited to tasks needing touch, measurement or judgement in difficult environments.

The best programmes use a hybrid model, choosing the method by risk rather than convenience.

Clear protocols for connectivity, camera handling and evidence capture are essential to make remote results trustworthy.