UK Post-tensioned Bridge Inspections Behind Schedule

UK Post-tensioned Bridge Inspections Behind Schedule

An RAC report published in early 2019 has revealed that almost 200 UK bridges, which should be inspected every seven years as a matter of course, have not been assessed by specialists in 18 years.

Understandably, this has caused some disquiet, with the RAC insisting that the lack of technical inspections on those structures is a serious issue which needs addressing.

Part of the problem is that the local authorities who are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of these bridges, simply do not have the funding to carry out specialist inspections. However, Dr Chris Atkins, chair of the Concrete Bridge Development Group was quick to point out that, although these post-tensioned bridges have not had the full PTSI treatment, each one will have undergone a full risk assessment and any bridges that were at significant risk have, in fact, already been dealt with. He stated:

‘We've picked up all the ones that were at significant risk, that people knew nothing about, now it's a matter of flicking through the leftovers.’

What this issue does highlight however, is that there is still clearly a funding shortfall for the upkeep of the UK's post-tensioned infrastructure.

CCL specialises in providing engineered solutions for structures, including the construction, repair and strengthening of post-tensioned bridges, and we believe it is of paramount importance to inspect and maintain these structures regularly.

Scheduled inspections not only keep these bridges safe, but minimise the cost of upkeep in the long term. The correct maintenance procedures also enhance the structure’s ability to meet its design life expectancy. In our vast experience, prevention is always much less expensive than retrospective repair.

If you are responsible for the maintenance of any large structure, CCL’s specialist teams of engineers would be delighted to develop the right solution for you. To find out more about CCL’s range of repair and strengthening services, please click here to download our brochure.