Abstract: The present application discloses a method of facilitating the inspection of hydroelectric runner blades mounted within a water passage comprising the step lowering a portable inspection platform down into the water passage to a position adjacent to and below the blades of the runner. The platform is configured to hold at least one person and to pass between the blades of the runner. The present application also discloses an inspection platform system for supporting an inspector adjacent the blades of a runner mounted within a water channel in a hydroelectric facility comprising a portable inspection platform dimensioned and configured to support the inspector and pass between the blades of the runner. The portable inspection platform system also comprises a cable for lowering the inspection platform into the desired position, the cable dimensioned and configured to safely support the platform and pass between the runner blade and the water channel.