Tab Article
Bridge management has become a topic of increasing importance over the last decade. Bridges are increasingly in need of repair due to the increased traffic loads to which they are subjected: both in terms of the volume of traffic and the weight of individual vehicles, as well as the deterioration of the structures due to their aggressive environment.
Consequently, the authorities responsible for managing bridges have developed systems for assessing the condition of their structures and prioritising the allocation of maintenance funds. During the late 1990s French and UK central government agencies set up a joint venture to review procedures for the management of highway bridges on the national road networks in their respective countries.
Management of bridges, which is the outcome of this joint venture, describes the bridge stocks in France and the UK, gives an overview of the organisational structures for the management of bridges, and compares procedures for inspection, assessment and maintenance planning.
