RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROOF LOAD TESTING IN AUSTRALIA

Throughout the world many countries are faced with the problem of ageing bridge infrastructure that is being called upon to carry increasing loads. With the difficulties associated with gaining funding to replace or rehabilitate these bridges, it is essential that the most efficient use is made of the existing infrastructure. Many of these bridges have load limits imposed on them which do not accurately reflect their capacity. Various methods of assessing bridge capacity are adopted by road authorities throughout the world. These forms of assessment include analytical rating, calibration of analytical models by supplementary load testing and assessment by proof load testing. Proof load testing is a valuable tool that can be used to accurately determine the capacity of these bridges to carry the required loads. The procedures used in proof load testing do not vary greatly between countries but the magnitude of the loads applied and the load factors used to calculate a load rating vary significantly. This paper discussed the use of proof load testing as an assessment tool and presents a case study of a proof load test in Queensland. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see IRRD abstract no. 895164.