In structures, a hidden component/element is one that would not usually be visually inspected as part of a principal inspection. A hidden component is not identified from normal principal inspection techniques such as:
  • visual inspection from a touching distance 
  • using access techniques such as mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), roped access etc
  • hammer tapping
Elements are hidden if they are inaccessible for inspection without excavation or removal or material or other structural components.

Critical elements as per CS 451 Structural review and assessment of highway structures, are those elements whose failure would result in significant local collapse or global collapse of the structure. 

Is Element Hidden? Attribute

To specify if an element is hidden, use the "Is element hidden?" attribute in element details. If set to "yes", in the element hierarchy, the suffix "hidden" is added to the element name.


The structure summary page will highlight if one or more hidden critical element exists.

This element attribute is available in the following primary/critical elements: