It does not matter if traffic movement is inhibited as long as the bridge inspectors are safe.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. It depends

Answer: (B)

Safety in-service bridge inspections requires controlling the work zone to protect both the inspectors and the traveling public. Blocking or severely inhibiting traffic isn’t acceptable by itself; it must be done only with a proper traffic control plan, approvals, and within a time and method that minimizes risk to motorists. The idea that traffic movement doesn’t matter as long as inspectors are safe ignores the broader safety responsibilities and potential hazards to drivers, so the statement is false. In practice, you balance inspector safety with public safety by using lane closures, detours, signs, and flaggers as needed. Short, authorized, time-limited interruptions may occur, but they’re not a free pass to halt traffic without proper planning.