Specific features of standard inspection of bridge structures in Moscow, Russia

Abstract

Despite similarities in structural forms, design development, and construction methods, urban bridges differ substantially from highway bridges. However, a uniform technical surveillance system is in use for both urban and highway bridges. Therefore, significant modernization of the technical surveillance system is required, as well as application of advanced management methods for bridge maintenance using state-of-the-art information technologies. In the course of the implementation of the Bridge Management System (BMS) for the City of Moscow, new inspection methodology aimed at recording the actual status of urban bridges, as well as the assignment of necessary repairs for their elements has been developed. Specific features of the methodology include an expandable catalogue of standard elements with their description, and the use of a special inspection scheme, which allows the standard element within a bridge to be located.