Defects in hidden bridge components

This report investigates the risks posed by hidden defects in critical bridge components based on published case studies.

• From: Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Research and Development Programme and Environment Agency
• Published: 24 February 2021

• Category: Whole life asset management
• Topics: Asset maintenance, Asset performance, Design and build, Health, safety and wellbeing, Incident management, Resilient infrastructure and Strategy and planning
• Project status: Completed
• Project code: SC140029
• Date of completion: 31 March 2017

Documents

External link: Hidden defects in bridges: guidance for detection and maintenance (CIRIA website)

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Details

This project brought together the results of published case studies showing hidden defects in critical components in some bridges. These defects can cause danger to members of the public and have even caused some bridges to collapse without warning. Unless these defects are resolved, the likelihood of problems occurring will increase over time.

This report covers:

• inspection
• defect identification
• bridge maintenance
• design

It discusses aspects of defect detection and management, and how defects might affect the structural stability of bridges. The report is based on published case studies and the experience of the authors and organisations on the steering group.

The project ran from 2014 to 2017.

Published 24 February 2021