A Survey of Bridge Condition Rating Systems

Starting from the results of a bridge inspection, a set of indicators can be obtained to define or calculate the so-called condition rating, which indicates the global state of the infrastructure. Rating the condition or functionality of bridges or individual bridge components is essential to take necessary actions at the right time and to prioritize the maintenance or replacement projects within bridge inventory, with respect to the economical most effective and cost-saving solution. A bridge condition index (BCI) is often used for this aim. In some countries, a qualitative method is used to define the BCI, in others a formula is developed to integrate the condition ratings of components in an overall BCI. Various aspects of damage (e.g., degree, extent, importance, and urgency) are considered to derive a BCI defined by numbers, letters, or their combinations. The present paper provides a critical comparison of existing bridge condition rating systems adopted in different countries worldwide.