Observation and Surveillance

Observation and surveillance condition-monitoring techniques (i.e., visual, audio, and touch inspections) are based on human sensory capabilities. They can serve as a supplement to other condition monitoring techniques. The use of human sensory techniques helps detect problems such as loose/worn parts, leaking equipment, poor electrical/pipe connections, steam leaks, pressure relief valve leaks, and surface roughness changes. Often the first indications of faults and problems can be identified through sight, smell and touch. Furthermore, human sensory techniques can be adopted as secondary confirmation.