Bridge Failures and Lessons Learnt

Around the world, bridge failures are occurring on an almost monthly basis. Bridge Failures and Lessons Learnt: Future-proofing to prevent disasters uses case studies from history, as well as more recent events, to analyse in detail the causes and consequences of these failures, shedding light on technological advancements and actionable steps to prevent such disasters in the future. Bridge collapses may be attributed to a relatively small number of causes, including errors either in design or construction, incorrect operation, poor maintenance and, especially with climate change upon us, environmental factors. It is usually due to a combination of these factors which leads to failure. In many cases, however, the detailed engineering reasons behind those collapses have not been widely shared so that bridge engineers can learn the lessons and to try to prevent similar recurrences. This principle of knowledge sharing has been fundamental to the development of engineering understanding for the last few centuries.


This book




provides a detailed analysis of the more frequent causes of failures, using a selection of case studies from around the world
focuses on future-proofing new and existing bridges, particularly in response to climate change
highlights the opportunities offered by new technology, including the use of remote sensors, IoT, and AI.


Bridge Failures and Lessons Learnt is a much-needed reference for bridge managers, consultants, inspectors, and civil and structural engineers engaged in the design, construction, maintenance, and management of bridges both in the UK and overseas. It is also useful reading for consultants designing bridge repairs, inspectors, and asset owners.