This Working Group had a more ambitious task than other Working Groups, as in the early development of sea structures there was no — and certainly no long-term — experience of the behaviour of concrete at sea. The inspection and maintenance of sea structures, on the other hand, are of utmost importance for the safety of people, for the environment, and for safeguarding structures against deterioration.

For eight years, Mr Daly’s Working Group has concentrated on this subject and, based on the experience of many structures now in use, very valuable recommendations are presented in this report. In my opinion, these can form the basis for owners’ and authorities’ guidelines for their inspection programmes. With this report, the preparatory work has been finalised and, in the future, if required, only amendments are envisaged.

J. H. van Loenen
Chairman