Bridge Inspection Quality Management

Abstract

Reliable data on the condition of bridge networks are critical for successful bridge management. However, little attention has been paid to the quality of the data gathered in bridge inspections. This paper reviews the most important areas of bridge inspection that cause variation in bridge condition data and presents possible misjudgments made as a result of poor inspection data quality. The main elements of the inspection quality management system adopted in the Finnish Road Administration are presented, and the development of the quality of inspection data in 2002 and 2003 is briefly summarized. The evidence shows that the quality of inspection data has improved considerably but that the current quality level is not yet sufficient. The quality control system could be improved by increasing inspector interaction during control inspections, using an independent consultant in inspection quality measurements and inspector training, increasing the number of quality measurements, and introducing quality targets.