New DBV Code of Practice on Bridge Monitoring
The German Concrete and Construction Engineering Association (DBV) is extending its Code of Practice collection and has now published under the Construction Engineering heading the DBV Code of Practice on Bridge Monitoring – Planning – Tendering and Implementation.
The fast-paced development of technical possibilities on the one hand and the continuing growing need for upgrading existing buildings on the other, make monitoring a subject of heightened significance. In this context, the choice of the appropriate methods for a given application and the need of all parties involved to speak the same language are of critical importance. Because there have until now been no rules, regulations, guidelines or recommendations for action, the DBV Monitoring Working Group was established within the DBV Bridge Construction Working Group, which has now drawn up the new DBV Code of Practice on Bridge Monitoring.
The scope of application of the new code of practice primarily comprises bridges, but can also be applied to other civil engineering structures. Monitoring, in this context, is understood as a general process that begins with the tasks of supervision, includes measuring systems and data recording, and concludes with analysis of the measuring results.
The Code describes the possible applications during the life cycle of bridge structures, with a focus on monitoring. However, monitoring may also be advantageous already in the planning or new construction phase. Apart from the description of the application objectives, monitoring is also discussed as support in assessing damage and as an instrument for inspecting structures. In addition, monitoring applications for rehabilitation and strengthening measures, as well as removal of existing structures, are described as well.
The new 2018 version is published on 54 pages, A5, in paperback, and is currently available for €32.10 for DBV members and € 64.20 for non-members. As of 2019, the price will increase to €37.45 for DBV members and €74.90 € for non-members, plus postage and handling costs.
