About us

Ludvík Hegrlík founded a small family business specializing in geological and geophysical work. The company was originally based in historic premises at Ječná 39, Prague 2. Thanks to the vision and determination of its founder, the company gradually developed and grew into the stable company you know today.

In 1992, we purchased our first measuring device – a PROCEQ deformometer. This enabled us to perform more accurate measurements of structural deformations and opened up new possibilities in technical monitoring. Thanks to the experience gained from using it, we soon began to develop and manufacture our own versions of these devices, adapted to the specific requirements of our projects.

In the early 1990s, we took a significant step forward thanks to geophysical exploration during the construction of a collector in Panská Street in Prague. We identified significant anomalies here, which subsequently led to a collapse on the surface during excavation. This intervention not only confirmed the reliability of our methods, but also made us known to construction companies as specialists in geophysical surveys. From today’s perspective, it seems amusing, but at the time it was common practice to color geophysical profiles by hand with crayons.

In 1993, we expanded our technical equipment with our first larger measuring device – a 32-channel ABEM seismic apparatus. This step enabled us to carry out more extensive and accurate geophysical surveys, thereby significantly strengthening our capabilities in the field of underground structure and building diagnostics.

We provided expert geotechnical services during the excavation of a drainage tunnel in the area of closed uranium mines in Horní Slavkov. The experience gained from surface and underground work became an important step for the further development of our activities in the field of geotechnics and underground construction.

Provision of geotechnical services during the excavation of a communication tunnel in the very center of the Faculty Hospital in Prague – an important reference demonstrating our expertise in demanding urban conditions.

We acquired our first portable measuring computer, a Kontron Electronic with an AT 386 processor. Although it was only powered by the mains, it could be used directly in the field. It was equipped with the Oscilo measuring program and became an important step in the modernization of our measuring technologies.

In 1995, we focused on developing and improving inclinometers, which play a key role in monitoring the stability of structures. Thanks to our in-house development, we were able to offer more accurate and reliable solutions to our clients.

Provision of geotechnical services during the excavation of collectors beneath the historic center of Český Krumlov for ČS Uranový průmysl. The project required maximum consideration for the protection of the heritage-protected area and a precise technical solution.

The Ostrava division was established in 1995 and was originally located in rented premises in the city center (Reální 6). With the gradual expansion of the team and technical facilities (MTZ), the need for larger and more suitable premises became apparent. Therefore, the building at the current headquarters at Rudná 21 was purchased and completely renovated. The construction and monitoring of the motorway tunnel in Klimkovice in 2004–2008 also contributed to the significant development of the division.

In 1996, we acquired our first electrodynamic vibration exciter – a device that enabled us to calibrate speed sensors and significantly expand the range of our services in the field of structural diagnostics. This was a key investment driven by the growing volume of orders and the technical development of the company, which opened up new possibilities in the field of dynamic measurements and strengthened our expertise in structural monitoring.

At the turn of the millennium, we obtained a quality management system certificate, and a few years later we had an integrated management system (Quality, Environment, and Occupational Health and Safety) in place.

Thanks to the stable growth of the company, we were able to significantly expand our team of experts, which allowed us to strengthen our internal capacities and respond even better to the needs of our clients.

This year saw a significant connection – we were approached by archaeologist Miroslav Bárta, who was looking for geophysicists for his research activities. He was so interested in our offer that we began a collaboration that grew into a long-term partnership. This experience opened the door to new areas of research and expanded the possibilities for using our technologies.

The year 2002 brought an unexpected test in the form of devastating floods. At that time, INSET was significantly involved in the inspection and evaluation of buildings affected by water, especially in the Karlín and Libeň areas. Although some of our activities went beyond the scope of our contractual obligations, we acted selflessly with the aim of helping companies and the city. It was this flexibility and expertise that led to the launch of projects within the European ISPA program, which enabled us to grow professionally. We established significant cooperation with PVS and PVK in the area of monitoring Prague’s sewerage system and invested in new technologies. Although subsequent changes in ownership (when the companies were taken over by Veolia) caused a temporary slowdown in project activity, once the crisis subsided, the market picked up again – and with it, our further development.

Since 2002, every two years the entire company has been meeting at a selected location to combine mandatory training with an opportunity to meet across all branches. Since 2008, this tradition has been firmly established in Medlov in the Vysočina region, where we strengthen team spirit, forge new friendships, and strengthen mutual relationships in a friendly and family atmosphere.

We are expanding our reach to customers in Moravia. As part of the company’s development, we have established a sales branch in Brno, which allows us to be closer to our partners and develop our business activities in the region more effectively.

The years 2004/2005 brought a series of serious accidents in the center of Prague – in the area of Vodičkova and Pařížská Streets, there were collapses of the roadway, sidewalks, and tram tracks. Dangerous cavities caused by water pipe failures formed in areas with heavy traffic. INSET s.r.o. was called in to perform key monitoring of underground cavities and unstable subsoil.

Thanks to our measurements and technical support, we were able to locate the risk areas in time and prevent further damage. This event was not only a technical challenge, but also an important confirmation of our ability to protect the city’s infrastructure and its inhabitants.

Between 2004 and 2008, we participated in the construction and monitoring of the motorway tunnel in Klimkovice. Our activities included passportization and monitoring of surrounding structures, measuring deformations and pressures in the tunnel lining, thereby significantly contributing to the safety and efficiency of the entire construction.

Another significant shift in our services occurred in 2005, when we acquired our own exciter – a device enabling static and dynamic load testing of bridge structures. This step took us to a whole new level of technical expertise and opened the door to independent implementation of complex diagnostic measurements. Thanks to this, we were able to participate in a number of key projects in the field of transport infrastructure and expand our activities in the field of bridge engineering.

In 2005, we established close cooperation with the Czech Institute of Egyptology and began to actively support archaeological research in Egypt. Our geophysical technologies were also used at ancient sites, where we regularly traveled to assist with research.

During the excavation of a new railway tunnel under Vítkov Hill, we measured the dynamic effects of blasting on the structure of the National Memorial. At the time, conservationists had serious concerns that Jan Žižka’s horse would “lose its tail,” so we designed and deployed a special measuring system for detailed vibration monitoring. The project was an important experience for us in the protection of historical buildings.

Between 2006 and 2010, we carried out passportization and monitoring of surrounding buildings during the construction of the sewerage system in Karviná. Our work also included vibration measurements to ensure the safety of buildings and surrounding structures.

In 2007, we became part of one of the most extensive transport projects in the history of the capital city – the construction of the Blanka tunnel complex. Our company provided geotechnical monitoring and participated in the survey and diagnostics of this demanding underground construction. It was a key project that confirmed our professional competence in the field of monitoring complex engineering structures and significantly strengthened our position in the market.

Thanks to our collaboration on the Blanka project, we gained further valuable experience, which we later put to good use in monitoring other tunnel constructions in Prague. 2012 – New premises for a growing team The year 2012 marked another significant milestone for our company, namely the move to new offices at Lucemburská 1170/7 in Prague 3 – Vinohrady. With a growing number of employees and projects, we needed larger and more functional facilities. The team from GRID also moved into the new premises with us, and other colleagues gradually joined us. The company began to grow dynamically, and we eventually occupied the entire building. We are still based here today, and the place has become not only our workplace, but also a space for growth and new opportunities.

Our company conducted a comprehensive geophysical and geotechnical survey in the village of Svatý Jan pod Skalou. The aim was to assess and ensure the stability of the unique Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist and the adjacent cave, whose structural integrity was threatened. Thanks to the proposed measures, it was possible to protect this important cultural monument and natural site from further degradation.

Growing interest in our services naturally led us beyond the borders of the Czech Republic. In 2007, we established a separate sales branch in Žilina, expanding our operations to Slovakia. In the same year, we acquired the Slovak company Dynamag Group a.s., originally founded by Peter Fabo, and launched the unique DYNAMAG® system – a device for non-contact measurement of mechanical stress in steel structures. DYNAMAG® became a registered trademark and a significant step in the development of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies.

In 2009, INSET began collaborating with Peter Fabo, which lasted until 2014. Since then, the collaboration has continued with Doc. Andrej Jaroševič, a renowned expert on the magnetoelastic method, the true “father” of this technology not only in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, but also on a global scale. Thanks to this collaboration, INSET acquired know-how, implemented four R&D grant projects and a number of contracts around the world, making the magnetoelastic measuring system a unique tool for measuring the properties of ferromagnetic materials.

We carried out a detailed geophysical and geotechnical survey of the section between km 47945 and 47965. The reason for this was an extensive and risky failure of the lining on the drinking water supply pipeline from the Želivka water reservoir, which supplies the capital city of Prague. The results of the survey made it possible to assess the condition of the structure in detail, identify the causes of the damage, and propose measures to ensure the reliable and safe operation of this strategic water management infrastructure facility.

How has INSET developed in terms of the number of employees since 1992?

Cooperation with Jiří Jíša represented another significant step in the development of our company. We began purchasing company vehicles from him in XXXX, and this long-term cooperation enabled us to build our own specialized fleet of vehicles equipped for technical measurements and field interventions in 2018. This mobile base significantly increased our operational capacity, self-sufficiency, and flexibility in implementing projects in various conditions throughout the country.

Even the COVID-19 pandemic did not stop us. Although it was a very challenging period, we were able to quickly adapt to the new conditions. We strengthened communication with clients, introduced the necessary hygiene measures, and set up internal processes so that we could continue to work safely.

Thanks to our flexibility and responsible approach, we kept the company running, none of our employees had to be laid off, and everyone was able to continue coming to work in compliance with all government regulations. We rose to the challenge and confirmed our stability and resilience.

Since 2022, we have been involved in one of the most significant infrastructure projects of recent years – the construction of Metro Line D in Prague. Thanks to our cutting-edge monitoring technologies and expert know-how, we are helping to ensure the safety and quality of this key construction project, which will fundamentally change the capital city’s transport infrastructure.

In 2024, INSET s.r.o. reached an important milestone – after years of successful leadership, Mr. Ludvík Hegrlík handed over the reins to the new managing director and CEO, Mr. Václav Rýdl. This change represents a smooth continuation of the company’s tradition, while also bringing new energy, a modern perspective, and a vision for further development.

Even though we have grown over the years and our team has expanded to include many talented colleagues (47 women, 151 men), we remain a company with a family spirit. We hold fast to our values, personal approach, and long-term relationships – both among ourselves and with our clients. This is the foundation on which we have grown and which we continue to uphold.

Today, we offer comprehensive services in the field of research, diagnostics, and monitoring of building structures – from bridges, tunnels, and buildings to underground utility networks. We specialize in static and dynamic load testing, vibration measurement, geotechnical monitoring, design and installation of measuring systems, and development of our own technologies.

Thanks to a combination of many years of experience, modern approaches, and our own technical equipment, we are able to provide tailor-made solutions – whether it be support for designers, investors, infrastructure managers, or research institutions.