A review of bridge assessments on the UK motorway and trunk road network

摘要

A sample of 294 structures has been audited in order to appraise the results of the assessment element of the Assessment and Strengthening programme. The relative incidence of assessment failures are presented, with reference to deck material types, deck construction types, and construction dates. Critical elements, locations and modes of failure are identified. The reasons for assessment failures are categorised and analysed.On the basis of these results and other research, recommendations are made for possible revisions to technical standards. In addition, it is recommended that approaches to enhance the level of technical understanding brought to bridge assessment be embraced.