INSPECTION RATINGS USED IN DENMARK

The 5 contributions to the condition ratings for bridges and bridge

components that is used in Denmark:


1. Type of damage: If the damage type is considered serious (it could
develop into something that will affect the usability and safety of
the bridge): 1. If not, 0
Example: shrinkage cracks are normally not serious. Cracks caused
by overload or Alcali-silica reactions are serious.

2. Current development of damage: If the damage at the time of
inspection has reached a considerable level, 1. If it is still
superficious, 0
Example: Cracks in concrete with a crack width less than 0.2 mm
are normally considered as little developed: 0. If they are wider
than 0.2 mm: 1

3. Extent of damage: If the damage affects more than 50% of the
element in question: 1. Less than 50%: 0

4. Consequential damage: If the damage has had consequences on
other elements or the general safety of the road users is affected:
1. If not, 0
Example: If water coming through a leaking expansion joint has
initiated corrosion on parts below the joint: 1. Or if the carrying
capacity of the superstructure is affected by corrosion in girders: 1

5. Function: If the element still fulfills its originally intended function:
0. If not, 1.
Example: If there is severe spalling of concrete in a bridge
abutment, but it still has the sufficient carrying capacity: 0


The condition rating of the element is the sum of the 5 contributions. I.e.
the rating can be in the range 0-5.

The rating of the bridge as a whole is determined as the highest (worst)
rating given to the elements: Superstructure, piers, abutments.
In the upcoming revision of the highway code for bridge inspections, the
rating of waterproofing will be included also in the rating for the bridge as
a whole.