CROSS Safety Report
Corrosion of bridge girder beams
Overview
Severe corrosion of bridge girder beams was found during intrusive inspections.
Key Learning Outcomes
For asset owners and managers:
-
Regular inspections and maintenance can help keep a structure safe before it deteriorates and requires costly repairs
-
Be aware that safety critical defects may be hidden behind linings and connection plates
-
The risks posed by hidden defects should be managed appropriately. Hidden Critical Element (HCE) inspections should be carried out by suitably qualified and experienced personnel.
-
Further guidance can be found in CIRIA document: Hidden defects in bridges. Guidance for detection and maintenance (C764)
For civil and structural design engineers:
- The corrosion protection specification for bridge structures is important to ensure they perform as expected for the given environment
Full Report
Find out more about the Full Report
The Full Report below has been submitted to CROSS and describes the reporter’s experience. The text has been edited for clarity and to ensure anonymity and confidentiality by removing any identifiable details. If you would like to know more about our secure reporting process or submit a report yourself, please visit the reporting to CROSS-UK page.
During an intrusive hidden critical elements examination of a half through metallic underline bridge, severe letterbox thinning and intermittent holes were found in the girders. The examination involved digging out of ballast, blast cleaning of the web plates and ultrasonic measurement of the remaining web thickness. The corrosion was found to be worst in the central main girder.
Submit a report
Your report will make a difference. It will help to create positive change and improve safety.
Our secure and confidential safety reporting system gives professionals the opportunity to share their experiences to help others.
Feedback
No feedback has yet been published for this page.
Expert Panel Comments
Expert Panels comment on the reports we receive. They use their experience to help you understand what can be learned from the reports. If you would like to know more, please visit the CROSS-UK Expert Panels page.
There are no Expert Panel comments on this report. The Expert Panels are only asked to comment on selected reports. These are normally reports where there is an opportunity for them to help you understand what can be learned from the report.