Visual Inspection: Pairing Visual Sharpness & Innovation

One of the most important inspection tools is also the most overlooked. 

It is not a shiny new 3D scanning device or a drone with UT. 

Those are helpful, but they all fall short without the unsung heroes of the inspection world: a sharp pair of eyes. 

Whatever the method, eyes must monitor work, control devices, and interpret results.  

They are also critical for visual inspection. This humble inspection method remains a critical line of defence in most inspection kits. 

Given vision’s importance, non-destructive testing (NDT) inspectors must pass a vision test annually to certify that their eyes are up to the task.  

Read on to learn more about the vision requirements of inspectors and how technology is expanding inspectors’ capabilities. 

The Jaeger Test 

Unlike the Snellen chart (the one with shrinking letters you read at the optometrist), NDT inspectors take the Jaeger test. Instead of letters, they read full paragraphs in tiny print, up close, to simulate on-site conditions. 

To pass, inspectors must read J1-sized text, about the size of the fine print on a medicine bottle held 10 cm from their face. 

Failure means disqualification. 

But inspectors with fuzzy vision—fear not. They can test wearing glasses. 

There is one caveat. If an inspector passes with glasses, they must wear them on-site. 

Visual Acuity Is Just the Start 

Passing the Jaeger test is only a pre-requisite to certification. 

Upon passing the physical, inspectors must then complete an intense certification processes, with qualifications like: 
 
• AWS CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) 
• API 510: Pressure Vessel Inspector 
• ISO 9712 

These trainings teach inspectors how to see—accompanied by a range of other inspection methods to assess the soundness of assets. 

The Future of Visual Inspection 

The digital transformation has not left the oldest form of inspection untouched. 

Remotely operated vehicles—such as drones and underwater rovers—have expanded inspectors’ capabilities. These vehicles can stream video, 3D scan surfaces, and inspect places inaccessible to humans. 

A new generation of devices is poised to take the digital revolution further.  

Although rarely used today, head-mounted displays (think Apple Vision Pro) and smart glasses are bringing new capabilities. 

These technologies can stream, overlay, and analyze assets in real-time. 

Abilities include: 

• Adjusting lighting to increase visibility 
• AI-assisted inspection 
• Capturing video for documentation in real time—without lugging a camera around 
• Consulting with off-site advisors with live streams of assets 

Why It Matters 

Whether spotting defects during a walkaround or flying a drone to check for corrosion on jacket legs, visual acuity remains critical. One missed flaw can mean the difference between safe infrastructure and serious risk—and visual inspection is the first and last line of defense in protecting assets.