Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During a Manhole Inspection with a RinnoVision Camera

Manhole inspection is a critical task for maintaining sewer systems, storm drains, and other underground infrastructure. Thanks to manhole inspection cameras like those designed by RinnoVision, this operation is now faster, safer, and more accurate than ever. However, even with advanced technology, certain mistakes can compromise the quality of inspections.

In this article, we explore the five most common mistakes to avoid when using a RinnoVision camera and explain how to prevent them to maximize inspection efficiency while prolonging your equipment’s lifespan.

Skipping Proper Equipment Preparation

One of the most common mistakes is arriving on-site without thoroughly checking the equipment. A dead battery, a faulty cable, or a dirty lens is all it takes to make the job inefficient or even impossible.

Before every operation, take the time to prepare your equipment carefully. Make sure the camera is fully charged, that you have a spare battery, and that there’s enough storage space available. Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth to avoid glare, smudges, or blurriness.

Don’t forget to check the connection between the camera and your control interface (tablet or monitor), and update your software if a new version is available. These simple yet essential steps are often skipped — but skipping them can lead to incomplete or unusable inspections.

Failing to Secure the Inspection Area

Safety is often underestimated, especially when using remote equipment. While RinnoVision cameras eliminate the need for physical entry into manholes, the surrounding environment may still present dangers.

Before opening a manhole, clearly mark off the work area using cones, safety tape, or barriers. If the inspection is taking place on a road or sidewalk, ensure proper traffic control is in place to prevent accidents.

Operators should always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): hard hat, gloves, boots, safety glasses, and a reflective vest. Whenever possible, work in pairs — one person operates the equipment, while the other watches over the site. By securing the inspection zone properly, you protect both your team and the public.

Poor Camera Positioning

Proper camera positioning is key to capturing full coverage and high-quality visuals. Too often, operators insert the camera too quickly or off-center, which results in blind spots, poor focus, or unusable footage.

Use the provided tripod or support to stabilize and center the camera. Extend the telescopic or rigid pole slowly, monitoring the video feed in real-time. The lens should be aligned with the center of the manhole, pointing straight down, and lowered to an optimal depth for a complete view of the structure.

RinnoVision’s RV-PRO 360 and RV-MAX 360 models offer 360° rotation, allowing you to view every corner without moving the device. However, even with this functionality, poor initial alignment can distort your perspective and reduce the clarity of your data.

Underusing Advanced Camera Features

Another frequent mistake is failing to take advantage of RinnoVision’s powerful software features. Merely recording a video without using zoom, image capture, annotations, or report generation means you’re only using part of the system’s capabilities.

During inspections, use the photo capture function to document issues such as cracks, root intrusions, infiltration, or sediment buildup. With RinnoVision’s intuitive interface, you can annotate anomalies in real time, saving time during reporting.

The onboard software can also generate automatic inspection reports, exportable as PDFs, MP4 videos, or JPGs — perfect for sharing with your team or clients. By using these features, you increase the reliability, traceability, and professional value of your inspections.

Skipping Post-Inspection Maintenance

After the inspection is complete, it’s tempting to quickly pack everything away without cleaning or checking your gear. But manhole environments are often humid, dirty, and corrosive, and they can damage your equipment if not properly maintained.

Take a few minutes to clean the camera lens and housing with a soft cloth — no harsh chemicals. Inspect all cables, connectors, and poles for signs of wear or damage. Immediately recharge all batteries so your equipment is ready for the next assignment.

Always store your camera in its rugged carrying case, designed to protect it during transport. This kind of regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your inspection tools and help you avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Conclusion

RinnoVision’s technology has revolutionized manhole inspections by making them faster, safer, and more efficient. But to get the most from your inspection cameras, it’s important to avoid common mistakes.
By following the best practices outlined in this guide, you’ll improve the quality of your inspections and get the most return on your technology investment.

Want to take your inspections to the next level?

The RinnoVision team offers personalized training, free demonstrations, and expert support to help you get the most out of your inspection solutions.

Contact us today to book a discovery session or request a custom quote tailored to your needs.

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