Development and implementation of a Bridge Management System for the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, South Africa

Abstract

This paper describes the development and implementation of a bridge management system for the Provincial Government Western Cape (PGWC). During the first phase of the project, the inventory and inspection modules were customised to meet the needs of the Department, which included integration of the BMS with the PGWC Road Network Information System. The second phase of the project involved the appointment of structural engineers to carry out the visual assessments, which is based on a defect rating system in order to determine a priority ranking of all inspected structures. The third phase of the project involved the validation of assessments and prioritisation of structures in terms of maintenance needs and the selection of suitable rehabilitation projects.