Section 3: Bridge Inspection
Anchor: #i1001336Routine Inspection
Bridges should be inspected on a regular basis. These inspections should be made immediately following any significant event such as permit overloads, floods or impact damage that could alter the condition of the structure. The frequency should not exceed (6) six months. The routine inspection is not intended to be detailed but rather a quick assessment of damage and/or deterioration for the purpose of determining repair needs or to identify safety hazards. Particular attention should be given to:
- structural damage
- damage to bridge railing or approach guard fence
- quality of riding surface
- performance and condition of the channel and bank protection measures
- adequacy of deck drainage.
If significant damage is found during one of these inspections, the area engineer and the district's bridge inspection program coordinator should be notified immediately.
Attention should also be given to routine or preventive maintenance work such as:
- cleaning the roadway
- restoration, delineation and signing
- cleaning and servicing joints and bearings
- removal of drift from around substructures.
Prompt maintenance and repair should follow these inspections.
Anchor: #i1001407Bridge Inspection Program
Routine inspections are in addition to and are not replaced by the inspections made every two years by bridge inspection; however, the inspection reports should be reviewed by the engineer responsible for maintenance.
Prompt scheduling of necessary preventive maintenance and repairs should follow this review. Notify the district bridge inspection coordinator of the type of work performed and when it was done.
Each bridge is assigned control/section. Permanent structure numbers stenciled on the bridge should be maintained to ensure proper identification.
Anchor: #i1001427Where to Find Additional Information
Additional information on the bridge inspection program is contained in the Bridge Inspection Manual published by the Bridge Division. The Bridge Inspection Form 1085-1 is also maintained by the Bridge Division.