Handbook for Bridge Inspections - TSP2

9.1 ELEMENTS IN THE GROUND
109. Other Types of Damage to River
Course
Description
Th is category includes damage/shortcom ings not already covered in Chapler 9.1 , fo r example the
loads exerted on foundations will increase if infi ll is deposited around them. Excavation work near
to foundations can reduce carrying capacity, whilst the fiver can suffer from erosion in a different
way after excavation of the water course. The foundations can then be put at risk.
This category also includes faults/shortcomings in the soil itself which can also lead 10 damage, for
example the absence ofwaler training wal ls, or a waterway with insufficient capacity. Additional
examples may have originated from the co nstruction period, such as embankments wh ich remain
unsown or yet to be installed protection against erosion.
Cause of Damage
'" Design fault
'" Construction fault
'" Inadequate daY-Io-day maintenance
Degree of Damage/Consequences
The degree must be assessed against the background of the prevailing local conditions and how
much the damage could develop.
The inspector must assess the consequences.
Conditions which Trigger Maintenance
Action should be taken whenever fau lts/shortcomings can lead to the development of damage
which cou ld affect carrying capacity.
Procedures
These should be assessed in each individual case.