FIELD GUIDE FOR THE

POST-EARTHQUAKE SAFETY EVALUATION OF

BRIDGES AND ROADS

Prepared for the

Indiana Department of Transportation, INDOT

by

Julio A. RAMIREZ, Robert J. FROSCH, Mete A. SOZEN, A. Murat TURK

School of Civil Engineering, Purdue University
under the
JTRP Contract No. 2377

March 2000
ii
 DISCLAIMER

While the information presented in this field guide is believed to be correct, authors and the
sponsoring agencies assume no responsibility for its accuracy or for the opinions expressed
herein. The material presented in this publication should not be used or relied upon for any
specific application without competent examination and verification of its accuracy, suitability,
and applicability by qualified professionals. Users of information from this publication assume
all liability arising from such use.

iii
iv
 PREFACE

In 1999, the Indiana Department of Transportation contracted, through the Joint Transportation
Research Program at the School of Civil Engineering in Purdue University, with Professor’s
Julio A. Ramirez, Robert J. Frosch and Mete A. Sozen to develop a training program for post-
earthquake safety evaluation of highway bridges.

Professor’s Julio A. Ramirez, Robert. J. Frosch, Mete A. Sozen, and Dr. A. Murat Turk, post-
doctoral research associate, prepared this manual and an accompanying training video that was
produced by the Center of Instructional Services of Purdue University. Overall view and
guidance for the project was provided by B. Rinard, W. Dittelberger and J. Thompson of the
Indiana Department of Transportation.

The principal investigators gratefully acknowledge the participation of Prof. Marc Eberhard from
University of Washington, Seattle in the preparation of this material.

Bridge damage examples and pictures were reproduced from; EQIIS Image Database,
Earthquake Engineering Research Center (EERC, University of California at Berkeley), Kandilli
Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute (KOERI, Bogazici University, Istanbul),
National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering, Taiwan.

v
vi
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page
DISCLAIMER ………………………………………………………………………………….iii
PREFACE ……………..………………………………………………………………………....v
TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………………………………………………………………vii
LIST OF FIGURES ……….…………………………………………………………………ix

1. INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………………………….1
1.1. Object and Scope ….……………………………………………………………………… 1
1.2. Level 1 Inspection ……………………………………………………………………………3
1.3. Level 2 Inspection ……………………………………………………………………………3

2. INDIANA BRIDGE STRUCTURES ………………………………………………………7

3. POSSIBLE TYPES OF BRIDGE AND ROADWAY DAMAGE ……………………….15

5.1. General …………………………………………………………………………………….15
5.2. Classification of Damage …………………………………………………………………..15
5.3. Level 1 Examples of Bridge and Roadway Damage ……………………………………….17
5.4. Level 2 Behavior of Bridges under Earthquake Excitation …………………………………28

4. POST-EARTHQUAKE SAFETY EVALUATION PRACTICE FOR HIGHWAY

BRIDGES ……………………………………………………………………………………...37
4.1. Level 1 Inspection …………………………………………………………………………..37
4.2. Level 2 Inspection ………………………………………………………………………….41
4.3. Suggested Tools for the Evaluation Procedure …………………………………………….45
4.3.1. Suggested tools to perform Level 1 inspection ………………………………………45
4.3.2 Suggested tools to perform a detailed evaluation for Level 2 ……………………….46
4.4. Bridge Closing Procedure …………………………………………………………………48

vii
5. EVALUATION EXAMPLES ………………………………………………………………49
5.1. Level 1 Examples …………………………………………………………………………..49
5.1.1. Example 1 ……………………………………………………………………………49
5.1.2. Example 2 ……………………………………………………………………………55
5.1.3. Example 3 ……………………………………………………………………………57
5.2. Level 2 Examples …………………………………………………………………………..60
5.2.1. Example 1 ……………………………………………………………………………60
5.2.2. Example 2 ……………………………………………………………………………64

6. REFERENCES …………………………………………………………………………….71

APPENDIX …………………………………………………………………………………..73

viii
 LIST OF FIGURES

Page
FIGURE 1.1 Flow-chart of Post-Earthquake Response Assessment …………………………….5
FIGURE 3.1 View of different structural parts of a typical highway bridge ……………………15
FIGURE 3.2. Damage classification tables for bridges …………………………………………16
FIGURE 3.3 Collapse of roadway due to slope failure after Duzce EQ 1999 (10) ……………..17
FIGURE 3.4 Collapse of roadway due to fault rupture after Izmit EQ 1999 (10) ……………..18
FIGURE 3.5 Failure of a prestressed concrete box beam bridge after Izmit EQ 1999 (10) …….18
FIGURE 3.6. Collapse of deck and piers after Taiwan Earthquake 1999 (15) …………………18
FIGURE 3.7. Failure of a monolithic RC girder bridge after Loma Prieta EQ 1989 (11) ………18
FIGURE 3.8 Collapse of RC girder bridge after Loma Prieta EQ 1989 (11) …………………..18
FIGURE 3.9 Collapse of bridge deck after Northridge 1994 (11) ………………………………18
FIGURE 3.10 Collapse of steel deck bridge after Kobe 1995 Earthquake (12) ……………….19
FIGURE 3.11 Excessive longitudinal movement of the bridge deck (15) ……………………..19
FIGURE 3.12 The excessive transversal movement of bridge after Izmit EQ (10) …………….20
FIGURE 3.13 Excessive longitudinal movement of steel box girder bridge (11) ………………20
FIGURE 3.14 Excessive differential settlement of the backfill (1) …………………………….20
FIGURE 3.15 Lateral movement of prestressed RC box girders (10) …………………………..20
FIGURE 3.16 Longitudinal movement of RC box girders after Duzce EQ 1999 (10) ………….20
FIGURE 3.17 Vertical offset between decks after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) …………………21
FIGURE 3.18 Excessive movement of expansion joints after Taiwan EQ 1999 (15) …………..21
FIGURE 3.19 The expansion of the joints Taiwan EQ 1999 (15) ……………………………..21
FIGURE 3.20 The expansion of the joints after Loma Prieta Earthquake 1989 (11)……………21
FIGURE 3.21 Vertical and horizontal offset on a bridge after Northridge EQ. 1994 (11) ……..21
FIGURE 3.22 Settlement of Bridge (26) ………………………………………………………..22
FIGURE 3.23 Column failure (11) ……………………………………………………………22
FIGURE 3.24 Failure of RC e column (11) …………………………………………………….22
FIGURE 3.25 Failure of the bottom of the RC bridge column (11) ……………………………22
FIGURE 3.26 Failed RC bridge column (11) …………………………………………………..23
FIGURE 3.27 View of damaged RC bridge pier after Kobe Earthquake 1995 (13) ……………23

ix
FIGURE 3.28 Heavy damage in RC bridge piers after Kobe Earthquake 1995 (14) ……………23
FIGURE 3.29 Shear crack in bents after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11) ……………………23
FIGURE 3.30. Shear key failure of a bridge after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11) …………..23
FIGURE 3.31 Buckling of steel girders (11) ……………………………………………………24
FIGURE 3.32 Movement of an abutment after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11) ……………..24
FIGURE 3.33 Separation of abutment (11) ……………………………………………………..24
FIGURE 3.34 Transversal movement of abutment (11) ………………………………………..24
FIGURE 3.35 Pounding damage at abutment (11) ………………………………………………24
FIGURE 3.36 Failure of two anchor bolts for a girder after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) …………25
FIGURE 3.37 Failure of an elastomeric bearing due to longitudinal movement of girder (10)…25
FIGURE 3.38 Failure of elastomeric bearing and cracking of girder beam (10) ……………….25
FIGURE 3.39 View of a failed elastomeric bearing pad after Izmit EQ 1999 (10) ……………..25
FIGURE 3.40 Spalling near location of anchor bolts after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11) ….25
FIGURE 3.41 Separation of soil at column base of a pier after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) …….26
FIGURE 3.42 Separation of column from the surrounding soil after Northridge EQ1994 (11) ..26
FIGURE 3.43 Disturbed soil at the base of column after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) ……………26
FIGURE 3.44 Barrier cracking after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11) ……………………….26
FIGURE 3.45 Minor damage on the deck of a bridge after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) ………….27
FIGURE 3.46 Curb separation after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11) ………………………..27
FIGURE 3.47 Collapse of asphalt pavement due to washout after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) ….27
FIGURE 3.48 Surface damage to highway pavement after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) ………….27
FIGURE 3.49 Settlement damage on approaches after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) ……………..27
FIGURE 3.50 The cracking of pavement due to pounding and settlement the bridge (15) …….28
FIGURE 3.51 Transversal movement of bridge deck after Taiwan EQ (15) ……………………28
FIGURE 3.52 View of RC bridge deck spalling after Taiwan EQ 1999 (11) …………………..28
FIGURE 3.53 Bearing movement and concrete spalling on the pier (11) ………………………29
FIGURE 3.54 Tilted rocker bearings (9) ………………………………………………………..29
FIGURE 3.55 Shift of bearings after collapse (11) ……………………………………………..29
FIGURE 3.56 Bearing movement (11) ………………………………………………………….29
FIGURE 3.57 Elastomeric bearing movement and spalling of girder concrete (10) ……………29
FIGURE 3.58 Sliding of elastomeric bearing (10) ………………………………………………29

x
FIGURE 3.59 Yield at pin support (in red color) (11) …………………………………………30
FIGURE 3.60 Buckling of web near lower flange and crack in pedestal (11) …………………..30
FIGURE 3.61 Local buckling of beam web near haunch (11) ………………………………….30
FIGURE 3.62 Damage at the bottom of the RC collector beam (11) ……………………………30
FIGURE 3.63 Buckling in the girder due to pounding (11) ……………………………………31
FIGURE 3.64 Steel box girder movement and collapse of bearings (11) ………………………31
FIGURE 3.65 Heavy damage in RC box girder bridge (15) …………………………………….31
FIGURE 3.66 Yielding at bolted connector beam (11) ………………………………………….31
FIGURE 3.67 Twisted steel braces (11) …………………………………………………………32
FIGURE 3.68 Shear cracks at the RC bridge girder near support (26) ………………………….32
FIGURE 3.69 Abutment slumping after Taiwan EQ 1999 (26) …………………………………32
FIGURE 3.70 Large cracks at abutment wing wall and slope (26) ……………………………32
FIGURE 3.71 Separation of the RC superstructure and the abutment (11) ……………………..32
FIGURE 3.72 Pounding of steel girder to the abutment (11) ……………………………………32
FIGURE 3.73 Concrete spalling and cracking due to pounding of RC box girder after Izmit EQ
1999 (10) ………………………………………………………………………………………..33
FIGURE 3.74 Compression failure on the top of RC bridge pier after Taiwan EQ 1999 (15) ….33
FIGURE 3.75 Separation of the superstructure and the abutment (11) ………………………….33
FIGURE 3.76 Heavily damaged RC bridge pier (15)……………………………………………33
FIGURE 3.77 Ground crack extending diagonally down slope under bridge (11) ……………..34
FIGURE 3.78 Retaining wall failure after Taiwan EQ 1999 (26) ………………………………34
FIGURE 3.79 Settlement around RC bridge pier (11) …………………………………………..34
FIGURE 3.80 Spalling of concrete at the top of the pile for abutment after excavation (11) …..34
FIGURE 3.81 Sand boils and ground cracks after Kobe EQ 1995 (11) …………………………34
FIGURE 3.82 10 cm gap between ground and RC bridge pier (26)…………………………….34
FIGURE 3.83 Ejected sand and lateral spreading around RC bridge pier (11) …………………35
FIGURE 3.84 Soil failure due to the fault movement through RC bridge piers after Duzce EQ
1999 (10) ………………………………………………………………………………………..35
FIGURE 3.85 Buckled seismic restrainers (11) …………………………………………………35
FIGURE 4.1 Level 1 inspection form …………………………………………………………..40
FIGURE 4.2 Level 1 inspection scheme ………………………………………………………..41

xi
FIGURE 4.3 Level 2 inspection form ………………………………………………………….44
FIGURE 4.4 Road closure sign …………………………………………………………………48
FIGURE 5.1 View of bridge superstructure after the earthquake (11) ………………………….49
FIGURE 5.2 More damage to the bridge superstructure (11) …………………………………50
FIGURE 5.3 Different views of bridge superstructure (11) ……………………………………51
FIGURE 5.4 The Level 1 form, Bridge Example 1, Steps 1 and 2 ……………………………51
FIGURE 5.5 Damage to one of the bridge piers (11) …………………………………………..52
FIGURE 5.6 The Level 1 Form, Bridge Example 1, Step 3 …………………………………….52
FIGURE 5.7 Damage to the bridge bearings (11) ……………………………………………….53
FIGURE 5.8 The level 1 Form, Bridge Example 1, Step 4 ……………………………………54
FIGURE 5.9 View of substructure and soil of the bridge (11) ………………………………….54
FIGURE 5.10 Completed Level 1 Inspection Form for Example Bridge 1 ……………………..55
FIGURE 5.11 View of the Parkfield Highway Bridge after the earthquake (11) ……………….55
FIGURE 5.12 View of the damaged bridge components (11) ………………………………….56
FIGURE 5.13 Completed Level 1 form for Example Bridge 2 …………………………………57
FIGURE 5.14 Superstructure damage of the third example bridge after earthquake (11) ………58
FIGURE 5.15 Substructure damage of the bridge (11) …………………………………………59
FIGURE 5.16 Completed Level 1 Inspection form for bridge example 3……………………….60
FIGURE 5.17 Different views from the superstructure of the bridge (11)………………………61
FIGURE 5.18 Different views of damage from the damaged bridge (11) ………………………62
FIGURE 5.19 Completed Level 1 form for the example bridge (53-1620D) …………………63
FIGURE 5.20 Completed Level 2 Inspection Form, Bridge Example 1 (53-1620D) …………..64
FIGURE 5.21 Different views of the superstructure of the second example bridge (11) ………65
FIGURE 5.22 Different views of the superstructure of the bridge (11) ………………………..66
FIGURE 5.23 Different views of the superstructure of the bridge (11) ………………………..67
FIGURE 5.24 Different views of the second example bridge (11) ……………………………..68
FIGURE 5.25 Completed Level 2 Inspection Form, Bridge Example 2 ……………………….69
FIGURE 5.26 Comp leted Level 2 Inspection Form, Bridge Example 2 ………………………70
FIGURE A.1 Types of Road Closure sign and dimensions …………………………………..78
FIGURE A.2 The pictures of Road Closure sign, bridge signpost and emergency cabinet …..78
FIGURE A.3 The map of primary routes in Vincennes District ………………………………79

xii
1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Object and Scope

It is acknowledged that the most damaging earthquake within the state took place on September
27, 1909 near the Illinois border between Vincennes and Terre Haute. Both nonstructural and
structural damage occurred to the buildings in this area, and it was felt strongly in the southwest
of Indiana including Indianapolis. Other significant earthquakes have been felt in the state with
epicenters occurring in the southwestern corner. Indiana has also experienced damage from
earthquakes originating in neighboring states.

Unfortunately, due to the long recurrence interval of strong earthquakes in Mid-America, a large
inventory of structures has accumulated without explicit consideration of seismic resistance.
Highway bridges are a significant component of this inventory. The seismic vulnerability of
highway bridges constructed within the state, especially in southwestern portion of Indiana,
presents a problem of serious consequences.

The seismic history of the region, and the classification of the Southwestern portion of Indiana as
AASHTO Seismic Performance Zone 2, has resulted in an increased awareness regarding the
need to be prepared against the potential threat presented by earthquakes. As one of the first
steps in the development of seismic policy for the state, the Indiana Department of
Transportation has decided to prepare highway personnel for the post-earthquake safety
evaluation of bridges. Since the highway system is an essential component of the lifelines to a
community following an earthquake disaster, it is important to quickly assess its safety and
functionality, and provide temporary retrofits to quickly restore transportation routes. A post-
earthquake bridge inspection plan with properly trained personnel is a key component of the
disaster response plan to restore quickly the transportation routes in order to permit the access of
relief and reconstruction assistance.

1
The main purpose of this field guide is to provide INDOT personnel of various backgrounds with
a rapid and effective methodology for the post-earthquake safety inspection of bridges and roads
in Indiana. This methodology is intended to promote and maintain the uniformity of the
inspection as much as possible while assessing and rating bridge and road damage. It is likely
that the first personnel to be dispatched or that will reach damaged structures will not be
engineers. Furthermore, depending on the extent of the damage that may occur, it is possible that
there will not be an adequate number of experienced engineers to survey every structure.

This field guide contains the material necessary for a systematic safety evaluation of bridge
structures and roads for a wide range of INDOT personnel. In the field guide, the necessary
material is arranged according to two inspection levels. Level 1 inspection consists of the rapid
visual evaluation of the bridges and roads in the affected area to establish obviously unsafe
structures and roads. The Level 1 section of the field guide is intended for INDOT personnel
with a broad range of backgrounds. Level 2 inspection consists of a more in-depth safety
evaluation of bridges and roads, as well as temporary repair and long-term monitoring
techniques. This segment is designed specifically for INDOT engineers. The Level 2 inspection
team will be expected to make a more detailed structural and geotechnical post-earthquake
condition assessment of the bridge. The inspection team may choose to reduce the speed of
incoming vehicles as they approach the bridge, to restrict access only to emergency vehicles, or
to close the bridge entirely to traffic. The team may also consider, where appropriate, if
temporary shoring or other strengthening and long term monitoring measures are required.

The organization and the management of the post-earthquake inspections are under the
jurisdiction of INDOT, unless declared a State Disaster by the Governor and taken over by
SEMA, and it is outside the scope of this field guide

2
1.2. Level 1 Inspection

The main objective of the Level 1 Inspection section is to prepare INDOT personnel with a wide
range of backgrounds for the visual safety inspection of highway bridges and roads immediately
following an earthquake. The purpose of the Level 1 inspection is to restrict the traffic on unsafe
bridges (Red Tag) and roads, to identify those that are safe (Green Tag), and to indicate those in
need of further evaluation (Yellow Tag). The information gathered also will be used to develop
rough estimates of the extent of the damage. This information will be available to prioritize the
work of Level 2 teams. Level 1 inspection is deemed appropriate for all bridges and roads in the
affected area immediately after the earthquake. The Level 1 inspection consists of aerial view
and/or drive through. Appropriate actions should follow the inspection. Bridges deemed unsafe
must be red tagged and closed to traffic. Roads that cannot be traversed must be identified.
Finally, the geographical extent of the damage should be identified.

The outline of the Level 1 components of the field guide are:

q Brief description of the seismology of Indiana
q Illustration of typical Indiana bridges
q Examples of collapsed bridges and damaged roads
q Preparations necessary for Level 1 inspection
q Teams
q Description of bridge closing procedures
q Suggested equipment and inspection form
q Review/Assignments

1.3. Level 2 Inspection

The top priority of the Level 2 inspection should be the inspection of all the yellow tagged
bridges and roads identified during the Level 1 inspection. In addition to closing unsafe bridges
and identifying routes that cannot be traversed, the Level 2 inspection team will make a more
detailed assessment of the bridges in the affected area. The assessment should include

3
geotechnical and structural aspects. Teams must contain INDOT personnel under the supervision
of an experienced INDOT engineer. The main objective of the material related to the Level 2
inspection in this field guide is to prepare the team members to make a proper structural and
geotechnical assessment of the condition of bridges following an earthquake. These teams can
further refine the conclusions about the Level 1 inspection yellow tagged bridges, restrict their
use for only emergency vehicles, or open the bridge to traffic. At the same time, after completing
the inspection of Yellow tagged bridges, Level 2 teams should inspect the Red tagged bridges in
critical routes to determine if they may be put back into operation with in-house repairs. This
inspection team will also provide recommendations for short-term repair and whether it should
be conducted in house or a consultant is needed. It will also indicate if shoring and monitoring of
the damaged bridges is needed. This inspection will be conducted using ground transportation.

The following is an outline of the items in this field guide pertaining to the Level 2 inspection:
q Examples of damage to typical Indiana bridges
q Preparations necessary for Level 2 bridge assessment
q Teams
q Necessary equipment and inspection form
q Techniques for temporary repair and long-term monitoring techniques
q Review/Assignments

4
 Earthquake

Level 1 Team

Moderately Damaged
Red Tag but Not Collapsed Green Tag
(Yellow)

Level 2 Team

Red Tag

Limited Entry
(Yellow Tag)

Critical
Routes, Green Tag
Repair
In-House
Possible
Temporary Repair
and Monitoring

Post Earthquake Detailed Investigation by Design

Engineering Staff / Consultants

Repair or Rebuild

Bridge in Service

FIGURE 1.1 Flow-chart of Post-Earthquake Response Assessment

5
6
2. INDIANA BRIDGE STRUCTURES

In this chapter, typical examples of highway bridges located in the Vincennes district of Indiana,
which is considered to be in the area of seismic risk, are shown (9). They are classified according
to their structural properties (8). In addition, the types of bearings are also illustrated.
ARCHES:

q Unreinforced Concrete Arch q RC Arch Open Spandrel

q Reinforced Concrete Arch q Precast Concrete Arch Underfill

7
 SLABS:

q Metal Pipe Arch q Reinforced Concrete Slab Underfill

q Continuous Reinforced Concrete Slab

q Multi-Plate Arch

8
 q Steel Girder

q Precast Concrete Slab Underfill

GIRDERS:
q Reinforced Concrete Girder

9
q Steel Box Girder BEAMS:
q Prestressed Concrete Box Beam-Spread
Boxes

q Riveted Plate Girder

q Prestressed Concrete I-Beam

10
q Continuous Prestressed Concrete I-Beam TRUSSES:

q Steel Pony Truss

q Steel Beam

q Steel Through Truss

q Composite Continuous Steel Beam

11
q Continuous Steel Tied Arch-Truss q Contact

q Rocker Bearing

BEARINGS:
q Integral

12
q Elastomeric Bearing PIPELINES:

RESTRAINER:

13
14
3. POSSIBLE TYPES OF BRIDGE AND ROADWAY DAMAGE

3.1. General

Highway bridges have a structural combination of superstructure, substructure and support

bearings. Superstructure consists of all the structural parts of the bridges that make the horizontal
span like slab, beams, girders or truss members. Substructures consist of structural parts of the
bridges that provide the support to the horizontal span like abutments, piers and columns.
Bearings are placed between the superstructure and substructure. Figure 3.1 shows all the key
components of a typical highway bridge.

FIGURE 3.1 View of different structural parts of a typical highway bridge

3.2. Classification of Damage

The Level 1 Inspection can be summarized as follows:

§ Green Tag - Safe for Traffic
§ Yellow Tag - Require Level 2 Evaluation (or quickly repairable)
§ Red Tag - Unsafe for traffic (must be closed)

More detailed damage classification tables are given in the Figure 3.2 by considering the
different components of highway bridges.

15
 GREEN TAG YELLOW TAG RED TAG
Traffic damage does not damage impedes
Barriers and impede traffic traffic
Railings
Movement at 1) < 1in. offset in 1) 1 to 6 in. offset in > 6 in. offset in
Expansion vertical or vertical or horizontal vertical or
horizontal alignment horizontal
Joints
alignment alignment
2) spalling of 2) local buckling of
concrete cover steel stringers
Seats at < 1 in. reduction in > 1in. reduction in unseating
Expansion seat length seat length
Joints
Bearings visible damage

GREEN TAG YELLOW TAG RED TAG

Columns, 1) vertical cracks 1) diagonal cracks 1) bar buckling in
Cross-Beams in RC beams. in RC beams, RC beams,
columns and piers. columns and piers
and Piers
2) horizontal 2) loss of concrete 2) local buckling in
cracks in RC cover steel columns
columns and piers 3) any crack in
steel beams or
columns
Column/ 1) any cracks.
Beam Joints 2) loss of concrete
cover
Footings/ Pile space between any other damage
Caps columns and (e.g., cracks,
surrounding earth spalling, rotation)

GREEN TAG YELLOW TAG RED TAG

Abutments spalling at any other damage
expansion joint (e.g., cracks,
spalling, rotation)
Approach/ < 1 in. settlement 1 to 6 in. settlement > 6 in. settlement
Abutment
interface
Roadway Normal Driving Reduced Speed, or Impassible
Conditions Quickly Repairable

FIGURE 3.2. Damage classification tables for bridges

16
3.3. Level 1 Examples of Bridge and Collapse / Partial Collapse / Roadway
Roadway Damage Closed

In this section examples of bridge damage are

given. The classification follows the damage
classification tables given in previous section.
The damage examples are organized in the
categories of:

q Bridge Collapse / Bridge Partial

Collapse / Roadway Closed
q Superstructure Damage
q Substructure Damage
q Bearing Damage
q Soil Problems

FIGURE 3.3 Collapse of roadway due to slope

failure after Duzce EQ 1999 (10)

17
 FIGURE 3.7. Failure of a monolithic RC
FIGURE 3.4 Collapse of roadway due to girder bridge after Loma Prieta EQ 1989 (11)
fault rupture after Izmit EQ 1999 (10)

FIGURE 3.5 Failure of a prestressed concrete

box beam bridge after Izmit EQ 1999 (10)
FIGURE 3.8 Collapse of RC girder bridge
after Loma Prieta EQ 1989 (11)

FIGURE 3.6. Collapse of deck and piers after FIGURE 3.9 Collapse of bridge deck after
Taiwan Earthquake 1999 (15) Northridge 1994 (11)

18
 Superstructure Damage:

Superstructure damage can be classified as

lateral, longitudinal or vertical movement,
pounding, buckling, cracking, and failure. The
examples shown in Figures 3.11-3.22 are red
tagged bridges except for those shown in
Figures 3.17 - 3.21 considered yellow tagged
examples.

FIGURE 3.10 Collapse of steel deck bridge

after Kobe 1995 Earthquake (12)

In the cases shown in the Figure 3.2 to 3.9,

there is no chance to permit traffic flow, it’s
physically impossible. Highway must be
closed immediately and barriers should be
placed and crisis center should be informed.
Walking on or passing under such kind of FIGURE 3.11 Excessive longitudinal
movement of the bridge deck (15)
collapsed bridge can be dangerous. This
situation is defined as Red Tag.

19
FIGURE 3.12 The excessive transversal FIGURE 3.14 Excessive differential
movement of bridge after Izmit EQ (10) settlement of the backfill (1)

FIGURE 3.15 Lateral movement of

prestressed RC box girders (10)

FIGURE 3.13 Excessive longitudinal

movement of steel box girder bridge (11)

FIGURE 3.16 Longitudinal movement of RC

box girders after Duzce EQ 1999 (10)

20
FIGURE 3.17 Vertical offset between decks FIGURE 3.19 The expansion of the joints
after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) Taiwan EQ 1999 (15)

FIGURE 3.20 The expansion of the joints after

Loma Prieta Earthquake 1989 (11)

FIGURE 3.18 Excessive movement of

expansion joints after Taiwan EQ 1999 (15)

FIGURE 3.21 Vertical and horizontal offset on

a bridge after Northridge EQ. 1994 (11)

21
 FIGURE 3.22 Settlement of Bridge (26)

Substructure Damage:

Substructure damage can be classified as local

buckling, shear key damage, settlement,
tilting, sliding, rotation, cracking, and failure. FIGURE 3.24 Failure of RC e column (11)

The following examples are red tagged bridges

except those shown in Figures 3.30 and
Figures 3.33- 3.35.

FIGURE 3.25 Failure of the bottom

of the RC bridge column (11)
FIGURE 3.23 Column failure (11)

22
 FIGURE 3.28 Heavy damage in RC bridge
piers after Kobe Earthquake 1995 (14)

FIGURE 3.26 Failed RC bridge column (11)

FIGURE 3.29 Shear crack in bents after

Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.27 View of damaged RC bridge

pier after Kobe Earthquake 1995 (13)
FIGURE 3.30. Shear key failure of a bridge
after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11)

23
 FIGURE 3.31 Buckling of steel girders (11) FIGURE 3.34 Transversal movement of
abutment (11)

FIGURE 3.35 Pounding damage at abutment

(11)

FIGURE 3.32 Movement of an abutment after

Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.33 Separation of abutment (11)

24
Bearing Damage:

Bearing damages consist of failure, movement

of rocker/elastomeric bearings, shearing,
pullout or bearing of bolts for contact type of
bearings. The examples consist of red tagged
bridges except for the case shown in Figure
3.40.
FIGURE 3.38 Failure of elastomeric bearing
and cracking of girder beam (10)

FIGURE 3.36 Failure of two anchor bolts for a FIGURE 3.39 View of a failed elastomeric
girder after Northridge EQ 1994 (11) bearing pad after Izmit EQ 1999 (10)

FIGURE 3.37 Failure of an elastomeric FIGURE 3.40 Spalling near location of anchor
bearing due to longitudinal movement of bolts after Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11)
girder (10)

25
Soil Problems:

Slope failures, soil liquefaction, soil fissures,

differential settlements can be generalized as
soil problems. The following examples can be
considered as yellow tagged bridges.

FIGURE 3.43 Disturbed soil at the base of

column after Northridge EQ 1994 (11)

Secondary Structure Damage:

FIGURE 3.41 Separation of soil at column

base of a pier after Northridge EQ 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.42 Separation of column from the FIGURE 3.44 Barrier cracking after
surrounding soil after Northridge EQ1994 (11) Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11)

26
 FIGURE 3.48 Surface damage to highway
pavement after Northridge EQ 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.45 Minor damage on the deck of a

bridge after Northridge EQ 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.49 Settlement damage on

approaches after Northridge EQ 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.46 Curb separation after

Northridge Earthquake 1994 (11)

FIGURE 3.47 Collapse of asphalt pavement

due to washout after Northridge EQ 1994 (11)

27
3.4 Level 2 Behavior of Bridges under Deck Damage:
Earthquake Excitation

In this section, bridges that were Yellow

tagged during the Level 1 inspection are
further illustrated to establish whether they
should be Red or Green tag. The damage as
shown can be classified into:
q Roadway/Approach Damage
FIGURE 3.51 Transversal movement of bridge
q Deck Damage deck after Taiwan EQ (15)
q Bearing Damage
q Superstructure Damage
q Substructure Damage
q Geotechnical Damage

Roadway/Approaches Damage:

FIGURE 3.52 View of RC bridge deck

spalling after Taiwan EQ 1999 (11)

Bearing Damage:

FIGURE 3.50 The cracking of pavement due FIGURE 3.53 Bearing movement and concrete
to pounding and settlement the bridge (15) spalling on the pier (11)

28
 FIGURE 3.57 Elastomeric bearing movement
and spalling of girder concrete (10)
FIGURE 3.54 Tilted rocker bearings (9)

FIGURE 3.55 Shift of bearings after collapse FIGURE 3.58 Sliding of elastomeric bearing
(11) (10)

FIGURE 3.56 Bearing movement (11)

29
 Superstructure Damage:

FIGURE 3.59 Yield at pin support (in red

color) (11)

FIGURE 3.61 Local buckling of beam web

near haunch (11)

FIGURE 3.60 Buckling of web near lower

flange and crack in pedestal (11)
FIGURE 3.62 Damage at the bottom of the RC
collector beam (11)

30
 FIGURE 3.65 Heavy damage in RC box girder
bridge (15)

FIGURE 3.63 Buckling in the girder due to

pounding (11)

FIGURE 3.64 Steel box girder movement and FIGURE 3.66 Yielding at bolted connector
collapse of bearings (11) beam (11)

31
 FIGURE 3.67 Twisted steel braces (11) FIGURE 3.70 Large cracks at abutment wing
wall and slope (26)

FIGURE 3.71 Separation of the RC

FIGURE 3.68 Shear cracks at the RC bridge superstructure and the abutment (11)
girder near support (26)

Substructure Damage:

FIGURE 3.72 Pounding of steel girder to the

FIGURE 3.69 Abutment slumping after abutment (11)
Taiwan EQ 1999 (26)

32
 FIGURE 3.75 Separation of the superstructure
FIGURE 3.73 Concrete spalling and cracking and the abutment (11)
due to pounding of RC box girder after Izmit
EQ 1999 (10)

FIGURE 3.74 Compression failure on the top FIGURE 3.76 Heavily damaged RC bridge
of RC bridge pier after Taiwan EQ 1999 (15) pier (15)

33
Geotechnical Damage:

FIGURE 3.80 Spalling of concrete at the top

of the pile for abutment after excavation (11)

FIGURE 3.77 Ground crack extending

diagonally down slope under bridge (11)

FIGURE 3.81 Sand boils and ground cracks

after Kobe EQ 1995 (11)

FIGURE 3.78 Retaining wall failure after

Taiwan EQ 1999 (26)

FIGURE 3.82 10 cm gap between ground

FIGURE 3.79 Settlement around RC bridge and RC bridge pier (26)
pier (11)

34
 FIGURE 3.83 Ejected sand and lateral
spreading around RC bridge pier (11)

FIGURE 3.84 Soil failure due to the fault

movement through RC bridge piers after
Duzce EQ 1999 (10)

FIGURE 3.85 Buckled seismic restrainers (11)

35
36
4. POST-EARTHQUAKE SAFETY EVALUATION PRACTICE FOR HIGHWAY
BRIDGES

4.1 Level 1 Inspection

The Rapid Assessment Bridge Inspection Form for the INDOT Level 1 teams is shown in Figure
4.1. This form is for multiple bridges, one bridge per line. Each line should be completed at the
conclusion of the inspection of each bridge site. If a given bridge is in imminent danger of
collapse, the inspection of the bridge shall follow the procedure outlined in this chapter.
Assigned unit personnel (normally two people for each route) should pick up their inspection kit
at their unit and inspect their pre-assigned primary route reporting back the condition of the
roadway and all bridges on that route. Primary routes are the road sections needed for access to
critical areas such as cities, hospitals, power stations, communication centers, schools, industries,
neighboring states. After primary routes are inspected, the supervisor should determine the
secondary routes to be inspected.

The Level 1 Inspection will consist of visual assessment of all bridges on the route. The main
goal for this inspection is to be able to make a quick and accurate conclusion about the post
earthquake situation of the bridges on the assigned route. The only time the inspectors can
interrupt their inspection is when they encounter a life or death situation. It is critical that the
inspection get done so outside help can be requested and routed via open roads. As indicated by
the result of the inspection, traffic flow on the bridge should be either controlled or restricted or
unrestricted. The results of the inspection will be utilized to develop the inspection schedule of
the Level 2 teams. For each bridge that will be examined, the teams should complete the
information in a given row, after checking all bridge elements. Finally, they should indicate their
decision on the last three columns. If any suspicious situation exists or more detailed information
is collected, team members can use the back page of the forms to make detailed explanations.
Any major bridge and roadway closure should be reported to the Unit/ Subdistrict/ District
immediately. In the previous chapter, common types of damage in bridges similar to those in
Indiana were noted. It is recommended to complete a quick walk around the bridge then follow

37
with a more focused inspection keeping in mind the examples of damage as related to the type
bridge surveyed. A suggested general procedure for the Level 1 inspection can be summarized
as follows:
1. Begin the inspection of the assigned bridges on the previously determined route after
collecting the necessary tools for the inspection (See section 4.3 for information on
suggested equipments)
2. Minor roadway deficiencies should be recorded in the form including pavement damage,
earth embankment failure, road obstructions and failure of the traffic control devices. Unit/
Subdistrict/ District should be informed immediately of any road or bridge damage that
requires the closing of the roadway to traffic.
3. Complete Level 1 Inspection Form. The form is shown in Figure 4.1. It contains columns
and rows. Complete one row per bridge inspected. The suggested step-by-step procedure is
listed below.
4. Upon arrival to the bridge site, review and verify the bridge number.
5. Record the arrival time.
6. Check the traffic flow on the bridge. Although there may be traffic using the bridge that
does not indicate the bridge is safe. Inspect all bridges assuming they may be damaged.
7. Approach bridge with caution and never walk immediately upon arrival directly under or
over the bridge. Do not cross the bridge without first sighting down the curb/rail line and
checking the underside for structural damage.
8. Prepare an inspection routine of the different components. Assign inspection tasks. Begin
by inspecting approaches and continue in the order listed in the inspection form (see Figure
4.2). Upon starting sub-structure inspection each inspector should go down a different side
of the bridge to provide safety by separation and to speed the inspection.
9. Discuss observation with the other members of the team and make the evaluation of the
condition.
10. After completing items 1 through 6 in the form with the comments YES, NO, or DRN
(Detailed Review Needed), the team should come to an agreement regarding the condition
of the bridge and enter in one of the last three columns of the form as appropriate. If a
bridge received at least one YES for the damage types 1 through 5, either a RED tag for

38
 closure, or if a more detailed inspection is needed (Level 2) a YELLOW tag should be
entered. In case of no damage, a GREEN tag should be entered.
11. Additional recommendations and observations about the bridge and roadway can be
written in the box provided at the bottom of the form.
12. If the bridge is given a RED tag requiring barricades, the Unit, Subdistrict, and District
should be informed immediately and the disaster closure procedure outlined in Section 6.4
of the field guide should be followed. If the bridge can be traversed, but repairs are needed,
place a YELLOW ribbon, if it is undamaged use a GREEN ribbon. Attach ribbons to the
bridge signpost and write time/date/inspector initials.
13. Record time on the form indicating the end of the inspection of the assigned bridges in the
space provided at the top of the form.

39
 Bridge

Number
Date and Local Time:

1. Collapse / Partial Collapse/

NO
YES

Name of the Inspector(s)

DRN
Roadway Closed

2. Superstructure Damage
Movement, Pounding, Buckling,

NO
YES

DRN
Cracking, Failure

3. Substructure Damage
Shear Key Damage, Local Buckling,

NO
YES

DRN
Settlement, Tilting, Sliding, Rotation,
Cracking, Failure

Roadway Problems Encountered and Comments:

4. Bearing Damage
NO Failure, Movement, Shearing or
YES

DRN
pullout of bolts

5. Soil Problems

40
Slope Failure, Soil Liquefaction,
NO
YES

DRN

Fissure, Differential Settlement

6. Secondary Structure Damage

Route_______ Direction___________from Intersection___________

NO
YES

Wing walls, Parapets, Pylons

DRN

7. Explain Other Problems Observed

FIGURE 4.1 Level 1 inspection form

(Damage in Pipelines or Other Utilities etc.)
Post Earthquake Condition of the Bridge (Please write “YES, NO or DRN (Detailed Review Needed)” for items 1-6)
INDOT RAPID ASSESSMENT BRIDGE INSPECTION REPORT (LEVEL I)
Page:____of _____

RED TAG
YELLOW TAG
GREEN TAG
 FIGURE 4.2 Level 1 inspection scheme

4.2. Level 2 Inspection

The bridge inspection form for the INDOT Level 2 teams is shown in Figure 4.3. A separate
form should be completed for each bridge inspected. The bridge classification should be clearly
indicated at the bottom of the form. Team members can use the back of the page to indicate
additional comments. The main goal of the Level 2 inspection is to decide the final situation of
the bridges yellow tagged during the Level 1 inspection. After completing the inspection of
Yellow tagged bridges, teams re-inspect the Red tagged bridges if in-house repairs can be made.
The Level 2 inspection teams consist of two trained and experienced people such as INDOT
Construction and Design Project engineers or Project Supervisors. At no time, the two Level 2
inspectors should not go under the bridge at the same time. Because they have to backup each
other and aftershocks may occur. It is important to note that the condition of damaged structures

41
may worsen due to the additional earthquakes, traffic or simply gravity. When assessing the
bridges, one should assume that additional earthquakes would occur and consider what effect(s)
may have. Sometimes it may be necessary to establish a monitoring plan to detect any changes in
the condition of the damaged structures.

General procedure for the Level 2 inspection can be summarized as follows:

1. Start the inspection of the assigned bridge after collecting the necessary tools for the
inspection.
2. Record the arrival and departure times. Complete the necessary information about the
bridge, route and date/time. Note the difference between inspection day/time and the
day/time of the main shock.
3. Examine the data from Level 1 inspection report for the bridge.
4. Check the traffic flow through the bridge. This may help to reach a conclusion about the
condition of the bridge.
5. Prepare inspection plan for the different bridge components and prepare assignments for
the inspection.
6. Inspect the superstructure and substructure following the sequence given in the Level 2
form.
7. Note the observed damage by checking the necessary boxes. Fill out the form shown in
Figure 4.3. It contains 6 main damage type definitions for the different elements of the
bridge structures and comments and section to make specific recommendations. One form
must be used for each bridge inspected.
8. Discuss the observations with the members of the team and come to an agreement on the
condition.
9. The final rating should be written on the bottom of the form.
10. If the conclusion is that the bridge/road must be closed, or barricades are required, contact
the Unit, Subdistrict and District immediately.
11. Note any additional recommendations and conclusions in the box. The backside of the
form can be used for additional explanations or sketches.

42
12. Place appropriate marked ribbon on the bridge sign to inform later inspectors about its
condition.

Examples of the damage observed during previous earthquakes are summarized in Chapter 5.
During the inspection of the various types of bridge components, care must be taken to make the
correct assessment. All the structural elements, connections, supports, bearing elements and soil
conditions should be checked.

For the concrete elements, flexural and shear cracks should be examined carefully. It should be
considered that spalling of concrete and the exposure of reinforcing bars to open air may
complicate the assessment damage resulting from the earthquake. Observed cracks have to be
marked with paint and crack path and location should be recorded on a sketch with the note of
crack width.

It is important to note that some reinforced concrete elements such as box girders, footings, and
piles cannot be readily inspected. If damage of these elements is suspected, access must be
gained to inspect them. For example, excavating the soil around the footings, checking pile caps
may give better idea for the damage. For the box girder type of elements, opening holes on the
cells and confined space entry may be necessary.

For the steel components, inspection of the damage is often not readily apparent such as in the
concrete elements. All assemblies, plates, anchor bolts, restrainers, connections, hangers, welds
and other details should be carefully inspected. Sheared bolts, buckled or bent members, cracked
welds, shifted girders, anything out of order should be noted. For the composite elements, anchor
bolts to connect the steel parts to the concrete elements should be checked such as in steel
columns connected to abutments and pier caps.

43
 INDOT DETAILED BRIDGE INSPECTION REPORT (LEVEL II)
Route: Date and Local Time:
Bridge ID: Bridge Location :
DAMAGE OBSERVED:
1. ROADWAY/APPROACHES 4. SUPERSTRUCTURE
1 Not Operational Reinforced Concrete Slab
1 Roadway Settlement 1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks
1 Off Bridge Seat 1 Connection Failure 1 No Damage 1 N/A
1 Excessive Transversal Culverts
Movement 1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Local Buckling 1 Connection Failure
1 No Damage 1 Metal Pipes Distortion & Deflection 1 No Damage 1 N/A
1 Other (explain)
Tr Steel Truss Members, Floor Beams, Stringers
1 Local Buckling 1 Upper Chord 1 Lower Chord 1 Diagonals
1 Connection Failure 1 No Damage 1 N/A
Concrete Arches
1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Connection Failure
1 Spandrel Wall Cracking/Collapse 1 No Damage 1 N/A
Steel/Concrete Girders, Beams
1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Connection Failure 1 Local Buckling
1 No Damage 1 N/A

2. DECK 5. SUBSTRUCTURE
1 Longitudinal Joints Enlarged Abutments
1 Expansion Joints Enlarged 1 Wall Movement/Rotation 1 Pounding Damage 1 Wing wall Movement
1 Wearing Surface Cracking 1 Wing wall Separation 1 Backfill Settlement 1 Foundation Movement
1 Wearing Surface Spalling 1 Abutment Pile Damage 1 Cracking on the Walls 1 No Damage 1 N/A
1 Deck Cracking/Spalling
1 Misalignment of Guard Rails, Curbs, Piers
1 Joint Failure 1 Moment Failure 1 Shear Failure 1 Inadequate Splice Failure
Pavement Lines
1 No Damage 1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Local Buckling 1 Foundation Failure
1 No Damage 1 N/A
3. BEARINGS 6. GEOTECHNICAL
1 Failure of Bearings 1 Slope Failure
(Integral, Contact, Rocker, 1 Settlement
Elastomeric) 1 Soil Liquefaction
1 Movement of Bearings 1 Fault Movement
1 Shearing or Pullout of Bolts 1 Other
1 No Damage 1 No Damage
1 N/A

COMMENTS FOR REPAIR AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. BARRICADE NEEDED
2. IMMEDIATE SHORE AND BRACE
3. REPAIR
3a. In-House Repair Possible
3b. Outside Contractor Needed
4. EMERGENCY VEHICLE USE ONLY
5. MONITORING UNDER SERVICE NEEDED
6. OTHER (explain)

Overall Rating For the Bridge:

SAFE (Green Tag):_______MORE REVIEW NEEDED (Yellow Tag) ________UNSAFE(Red Tag):__________
Name of the Inspector(s):

FIGURE 4.3 Level 2 inspection form

44
4.3. Suggested tools for the evaluation procedure

4.3.1. Suggested tools to perform Level 1 inspection

q Radio and cellular phone for communications

q Inspection procedures field guide
q Primary and county route maps, state maps
q List of bridges on the routes
q Clipboard, pen, pencil
q Waterproof marker
q Ribbons in three colors: Red ribbon to close, Yellow ribbon to identify open but repairs
or additional inspection needed and Green ribbon to denote undamaged with color
wording on ribbon
q Rope
q Safety vest
q Hardhat
q Flash light
q “Road Closed” signs, flashers and stands. (See section 4.4)
q Shovel
q Barrels
q Cones
q Traffic control paddles
q First aid kit
q Camera and film
q Fire extinguisher
q 100 ft tape
q Hammer
q Extra flashlight batteries
q Binoculars
q Chain saw

45
4.3.2 Suggested tools to perform a detailed evaluation for Level 2

The necessary resources for the Level 2 teams are:

q Level 1 inspection form data

q Bridge inventory book
q Primary and county route maps
q Radio and/or satellite phone for communications
q Water, food, clothes, blankets, tents, shelter and supplies for at least 3 days per person
q Inspection Form for each bridge, field book, sketchpad, paper, pencils, clipboard.
q 100-foot tape, pocket tape, and ruler.
q Testing hammer or geologist hammer
q Inspection mirror and flashlight for inaccessible areas
q Keel marker
q Camera and film
q Binoculars
q Tool belt, boots
q Wire brush, shovel, whisk broom
q Pocket knife
q Safety harness and lanyard
q Scraping toll
q Calipers
q Ladders
q Lead lines
q Hand level
q Thermometer
q Pocket or wrist watch
q Plumb bob
q Safety vest
q Hard hat
q Rope

46
 q Axe
q Tape recorder and tape
q Tool box
q Life jacket
q Gloves, PVC coated and leather
q Ear plugs
q Eye wash
q First aid kit
q Cones, traffic safety
q Fire extinguisher
q Sign, flagman’s signal

For detailed inspection, following items may be required for the different type of bridges:

q Crack gage or comparator to measure the width of the cracks

q Piano wire or some other device for measuring the depth of cracks
q Screwdriver
q Pliers
q Wrench
q Magnifying glass
q Periscope, fluorescent tube light
q Hand drill, borer or ship auger
q Straight edge
q Flagging for marking damaged areas

47
4.4. Bridge Closing Procedure

INDOT has a formal procedure for the planned closing of a road or bridge that includes pre-
closure notification to the public (through the media and signs), marking a detour/approach and
signing the actual barricade closure. In a major disaster INDOT has a responsibility to take all
reasonable actions to notify and protect the public as soon as the need for a road closure is
known (see Appendix A, Indot Response Procedure for Major Disasters).

Each unit shall maintain a minimum of one set of “Road Closure” signs (Figure 4.4) with type B
flashers and sign supports for each primary disaster route in their unit. Level 1 inspectors shall
load one road closure setup (2 signs) onto their truck prior to starting their inspection. If there is
a need for closure during inspection, the signs will be put up on each approach and
unit/subdistrict/ district immediately notified so that the approach signing, barricading and a
detour can be placed in a timely manner by follow up personnel. Once this is done, Level 1
inspectors shall continue the inspection on their primary route using the state and county maps to
find a way around the closure. If additional closures are encountered that information is to be
relayed back to the unit/subdistrict for assistance. One inspector may have to remain at the
closure until relieved if no signing or other traffic control is available (try to use local law
enforcement if available

FIGURE 4.4 Road closure sign

48
5. EVALUATION EXAMPLES

5.1 Level 1 Examples

5.1.1 Example 1

In this section of the field guide, the Level 1 Bridge Inspection Form is completed based on a
series of examples of damaged bridges. In the first example, the highway bridge, Santa Clara
River Bridge (Interstate 5, 53-0687, CA) damaged after 1994 Northridge Earthquake, is
evaluated (11). The available photos are arranged in the order of a typical inspection routine as
described in the Level 1 form.

FIGURE 5.1 View of bridge superstructure after the earthquake (11)

49
FIGURE 5.2 More damage to the bridge superstructure (11)

50
 FIGURE 5.3 Different views of bridge superstructure (11)

FIGURE 5.4 The Level 1 form, Bridge Example 1, Steps 1 and 2

51
 FIGURE 5.5 Damage to one of the bridge piers (11)

FIGURE 5.6 The Level 1 Form, Bridge Example 1, Step 3

52
FIGURE 5.7 Damage to the bridge bearings (11)

53
 FIGURE 5.8 The level 1 Form, Bridge Example 1, Step 4

FIGURE 5.9 View of substructure and soil of the bridge (11)

54
 FIGURE 5.10 Completed Level 1 Inspection Form for Example Bridge 1

5.1.2 Example 2

The second example is the Parkfield Highway Bridge (Bridge #1309, Parkfield, CA). The bridge
was damaged after Parkfield, California Earthquake, June 27-29, 1966. The available pictures are
arranged in the order of a typical inspection routine as described in the Level 1 form.

FIGURE 5.11 View of the Parkfield Highway Bridge after the earthquake (11)

55
FIGURE 5.12 View of the damaged bridge components (11)

56
 FIGURE 5.13 Completed Level 1 form for Example Bridge 2

5.1.3. Example 3

The Interchange Bridge between I-5 and I-210 (California), was damaged after San Fernando
EQ, 1971. The available pictures are arranged in the order of a typical inspection routine as
described in the Level 1 form. At the end, particular row in the Level 1 Inspection Form is
completed according to the damage scenes of the bridge.

57
FIGURE 5.14 Superstructure damage of the third example bridge after earthquake (11)

58
FIGURE 5.15 Substructure damage of the bridge (11)

59
 FIGURE 5.16 Completed Level 1 Inspection form for bridge example 3

5.2 Level 2

5.2.1 Example 1

In this section of the field guide, Level 2 Bridge Inspection Form is completed by using a series
of examples of damaged bridge photos. As a first example the highway bridge, I5-14
Interchange, CA is chosen. The bridge was damaged after the Northridge Earthquake, 1994 (11).
(Figures 5.17-5.18). The available pictures are arranged in the order suggested for a typical Level
2 inspection. The bridge is assumed as yellow tagged after inspection by Level 1 Inspection
team, the Level 1 form is shown in Figure 5.19. The completed Level 2 Inspection form is shown
following the example illustrations.

60
FIGURE 5.17 Different views from the superstructure of the bridge (11)

61
FIGURE 5.18 Different views of damage from the damaged bridge (11)

62
FIGURE 5.19 Completed Level 1 form for the example bridge (53-1620D)

63
 FIGURE 5.20 Completed Level 2 Inspection Form, Bridge Example 1 (53-1620D)

5.2.2 Example 2

The I5-R216 Interchange Bridge (53-1626,CA) was damaged after the Northridge Earthquake,
1994 (11) (Figures 5.21- 5.24). The completed forms (Level 1 and 2) are shown following the
example photos those are arranged in order of a typical Level 2 inspection (Figures 5.25-26).

64
FIGURE 5.21 Different views of the superstructure of the second example bridge (11)

65
FIGURE 5.22 Different views of the superstructure of the bridge (11)

66
FIGURE 5.23 Different views of the superstructure of the bridge (11)

67
FIGURE 5.24 Different views of the second example bridge (11)

68
FIGURE 5.25 Completed Level 2 Inspection Form, Bridge Example 2

69
FIGURE 5.26 Completed Level 2 Inspection Form, Bridge Example 2

70
6. REFERENCES

1. Seismic Bridge Design Applications, Federal Highway Administration, Report SA-97-018,

1996
2. http://www.eas.slu.edu/Earthquake_Center/newmadrid1975-1995.html
3. Atkinson, W., “The Next New Madrid Earthquake, A Survival Guide”, Southern Illinois
University Press, 1989.
4. http://www.indstate.edu/gga/recent/indiana.gif
5. http://geohazards.cr.usgs.gov/eq/html/ceusmap.shtml
6. http://www.hsv.com/genlintr/newmadrd/
7. http://wwwneic.cr.usgs.gov/neis/states/indiana/indiana_history.html
8. Inventory of Bridges State Highway System of Indiana 1999-2000, Indiana Department of
Transportation
9. Indiana Department of Transportation, Vincennes District Picture Archive
10. http://www.koeri.boun.edu.tr /earthqk/earthqk.html
11. http://www.eerc.berkeley.edu/eqiis.html Northridge Collection, Earthquake Engineering
Research Center, University of California, Berkeley.
12. The Great Kansai Earthquake, Asahi Graph, Vol. 3794, Asahi Shimbun, February 1995.
13. The Earthquake Damage Research Report of Hyougo Ken Nanbu Zisin at 1995, Kajima
Corporation, Vol.1, February 1995.
14. The January 17, 1995 Kobe Earthquake, An EQE Summary Report, EQE International, 1995
15. Investigation Report on Bridge Damage In JiJi Earthquake on September 21, 1999, National
Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering, Taiwan, Roc, November 1999.
16. Vejvoda, M.F., “Strengthening of Existing Structures with Post-Tensioning,” Concrete
International, September 1992.
17. ACI Committee 224, “Causes, Evaluation, and Repair of Crack in Concrete Structures,”
224.1R-89
18. Saiidi, M., “Current Bridge Seismic Retrofit Practice in the Unit
International, December 1992

71
19. Student Manual to Accompany Training Video on Post-earthquake Safety Evaluation of
Bridges State of Washington, Wiss Janey Elstner Associates, Inc., WJE No.942730, 1996
20. http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/earthq3/contents.html
21. http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/earthq3/contents.html
22. http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/earthq1/plate.html
23. http://www.geo.mtu.edu/UPSeis/where.html
24. http://clgray.simplenet.com/paper/appendb.html
25. http://www.deprem.gov.tr
26. http://www.structures.ucsd.edu/Taiwaneq/index.html
27. The January 17, 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu (Kobe) Earthquake, Performance of Structures,
Lifelines, and Fire Protection Systems, National Institute of Standards and Technology,
NIST Special Publication 901 (ICSSC TR18), July 1996.
28. http://adamite.igs.indiana.edu/indgeol/index.htm

72
 APPENDIX

INDOT VINCENNES DISTRICT RESPONSE PROCEDURES FOR MAJOR DISASTERS

MAJOR DISASTER: A major disaster is defined as any incident that could cause extended
closure of our highway system. Examples could be localized incidents like fire, winds, tornado,
vehicle accidents and spills or non-localized incidents such as floods, ice storms, blizzards,
nuclear incidents or earthquakes (Intensity > 5.0 Magnitude). All INDOT personnel should
participate in appropriate disaster training and following a perceived disaster (and phones do not
work) report to their designated reporting station or the closest Unit to their home.

DISTRICT RESPONSE: As soon as possible following a major disaster incident, the Vincennes
District will open their District Emergency Operations Center (DEOC). Communications will be
established between affected subdistricts and central office. The Vincennes Emergency
Operations Center will be located in the new District Office building on US 41 just south of
Vincennes. The District presently has a 24-hour switchboard attendant. The DEOC will be
staffed by select department heads and designated staff.

SUBDISTRICT RESPONSE: As soon as possible following a major disaster, each affected

Subdistrict will open their Subdistrict Emergency Operations Center. Communications by phone
and radio will be established with all affected Subdistrict units and the Vincennes District.
Subdistricts should establish procedures to contact those people needed to perform disaster
activities including a system of notification if telephones are not working. The Subdistrict EOC
will be staffed by designated Subdistrict personnel with help from the other departments. If a
Subdistrict is not operational, an adjacent Subdistrict will take over as the Subdistrict EOC.

UNIT RESPONSE: As soon as possible following a major disaster, each affected Unit will open
their facility, establish communications by phone and radio and start Level 1 Inspections of all
Unit Primary Routes (Most units have 2 to 3 Primary Routes). Designated personnel from other

73
departments (such as construction) are to be assigned to the closest unit to assist that unit or
personnel may be sent between units as the need is identified.
UNIT LEVEL 1 INPECTIONS: Each Unit involved in the disaster will be responsible for the
Level 1 Inspection of the Units Primary Routes if the respective disaster warrants. Assigned Unit
personnel (normally two people per route) will pick up an Inspection Kit from their disaster
cabinet and inspect their assigned primary route reporting back the condition of the roadway and
all bridges on that route. Primary routes are road sections needed for access to critical areas such
as cities, hospitals, schools, industries, adjacent States. Once primary routes are inspected the
supervisor will determine if the secondary routes should be inspected. The Level1 Inspection will
be a visual assessment with short stops to inspect all bridges. It is important that Level 1
Inspections should be completed as quickly and accurately as possible so that a quick assessment
of the disaster can be made. Only interrupt your Level 1 Inspection to assist with a life-
threatening situation.

DURING THE LEVEL 1 INSPECTION:

1. Minor roadway deficiencies should be recorded on the Level 1 Inspection Form including
pavement damage, earth embankment failures, road obstructions and failure of traffic control
devices. Any roadway damage requiring the closing of the roadway should be relayed back to
the Unit / Subdsitrict / District office immediately. Each inspection crew will carry a set of
Road Closure Signs to be used in such an event.
2. All bridges are to be inspected using the Level 1 Inspection Form with bridges identified.
Approach all bridges with caution and never walk directly under a bridge following an
earthquake. Do not cross the bridge without first sighting down the curb/rail line and
checking the underside for structural damage. Do not cross the bridge if significant problems
are observed. Close the bridge by placing Road Closed Signs on each approach and place a
Red Ribbon with time, date and your initials on the bridge signpost. Use the provided
State/County Map to find a route around closure. If the bridge is passable but repairs are
needed place a Yellow Ribbon or place a Green Ribbon if no problems are found. Place
ribbons on bridge sign post just under the sign and remember to time/date/initial for possible
follow up inspections. Record all observations and proceed to the next structure. Level 1

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 Inspection Training for unit personnel will be done in house by District personnel using
materials provided by Purdue University.

REQUIRED MATERIALS FOR EACH LEVEL 1 INSPECTION CREW: All noted materials
below must be kept in the units Disaster Signal Box located in the yard of each unit.
1. The Units A, B, C,…. Primary Route Maps with detour county maps and state maps and
inspection procedures (in box).
2. Red Ribbon to close, Yellow Ribbon to identify open but repairs needed and Green Ribbon
to denote undamaged with color wording on ribbon (in box).
3. A tablet with waterproof markers, pen, pencil (in box).
4. Load one set (2 signs) of “Road Closed” signs with B flashers and stands.
5. Load shovel/barrels/cones/traffic control paddles (from unit) in truck.
6. Flashlight, fire extinguisher, hard hats, vests, first aid kit and personal items should go with
each radio equipped Level 1 Inspection truck.

LEVEL 2 INSPECTION TEAM: Each unit reporting roadway or bridge damage requiring
Closure (red) or Damage (Yellow) will report it back to the Unit/Subdistrict/District who will
assign a Level 2 Inspection team to do more in-depth inspection of the damage. The Level 2
Inspection team will be a minimum two-person team made up of at least one trained professional
engineer (CE) or experienced project supervisors (EAS). A list of Level 2 trained personnel
assigned to each Subdistrict/Unit will be kept on file. Level 2 personnel will be formally trained
using materials provided by Purdue University. Unless assigned otherwise each CE & EAS is to
report to the closest unit to their home.

LEVEL 3 INSPECTION TEAM: If additional inspection is needed it will be initiated by CO

using in-house design personnel or consultants.

COMMUNICATIONS: It is likely to be a major problem in any disaster. INDOT will prepare

for the loss of phones and radio towers by setting up a mobile to mobile system by strategically
locating 100 watt radio equipped maintenance vehicles to relay to any part of the district. A letter
identifying 100-watt vehicles and a map where vehicles are to be located shall be kept in each

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disaster kit at the Subdistrict. Traffic will make operational a boom truck that will have an
antenna capable of working as a temporary tower. All subdistricts will maintain their emergency
power generations and wiring will be done at units to allow the connection of a portable
generator for emergency power. During any such disaster minimize your use of the radio and
phone to only critical information such as road closures.

MAJOR DISASTER PROCEDURES FOR UNITS:

The first person to arrive at the Unit should gain access and then:

1. Turn off the incoming gas if the Unit building has been damaged or if gas is smelled
(earthquake/tornado). Do not turn on lights prior to checking for leaking gas. The gas valve
with wrench is located _______________________________________________________.
Also, if electricity is damaged, you may want to disconnect the breaker or shut off water if a
leak is discovered. Units should label all critical gas and water valves. If no key is available
access may have to be gained by cutting/breaking locks.
2. Establish communications with the Subdistrict by telephone and radio and start the Unit
Communications Log, always have someone assigned to monitor communications. If a phone
connection is made with the Sub you may want to leave it open and not hang up to maintain
an open line. Each unit shall id vehicles with 100-watt radios and assigns them to relay
locations such as the unit and strategic hilltops if towers are down.
3. Unlock all doors, locate vehicle keys and start emergency generator, if available and as
needed. Extra vehicle keys may need to be stored in the Units Disaster Signal Box if your
unit building is likely to be affected (older brick buildings). A complete set of backup
vehicle/facility keys should be kept at the Subdistrict.
4. As additional personnel report to the Unit, they should immediately start the Units Primary
Route Level 1 Inspections unless directed otherwise by the Subdistrict. You should assign
two maintenance workers to each primary route. All materials for the inspection should be
available in the Disaster Signal Cabinets or unit.
A. Sign the route assignment sheet and pick up the primary “A” route kit. Later workers will
pick up routes B or C until all routes are being inspected.

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 B. Each Inspection Kit will include a primary route map with detour state and county maps
and inspection procedure, Red Yellow and Green Ribbon, tablet, waterproof marker, pen
and pencil.
C. Load your radio-equipped truck with 2 road-closed signs, B flashers and stands, shovel,
barrels, cones and traffic control paddles.
D. Vehicle should already contain flashlight, fire extinguisher, hard hats, vests, first aid kit
and personal items such as food, water and clothing.
E. Driver should read instructions and begin the Primary Route Level 1 Inspection.
F. When the Primary Route Inspection is completed and you have returned to the Unit, sign in
on the route assignment sheet and report to your supervisor.
G. If all routes have been assigned for inspection additional personnel who arrive should
prepare equipment for possible use.

DISASTER ROAD/BRIDGE CLOSURE PROCEDURE

INDOT has a formal procedure for the planned closing of a road or bridge that includes pre-
closure notification to the public (through the media & signs), marking a detour/approach and
signing the actual barricade closure. In a major disaster, this procedure will be impossible to
follow but INDOT has a responsibility to take all reasonable actions to notify and protect the
public as soon as the need for a road closure is known. To that end each unit shall maintain a
minimum of one set of “Road closure” signs with type B flashers and sign supports for each
primary disaster route in their unit. The Level 1 inspectors shall load one Road Closure setup (2
signs) onto their truck prior to starting their inspection. If the need for a closure is encountered
during the inspection, the signs will be put on each approach and the Unit/Subdistrict will be
immediately notified by radio so that the approach signing, barricading and a detour can be
placed in a timely manner by follow up personnel. Once the sign is placed the Level 1 inspectors
shall continue the inspection on their primary route using the state and county maps to find a way
around the closure. If additional closures are encountered that information is to be relayed back
to the Unit/Subdistrict for assistance. One inspector may have to remain at the closure until
relieved if no signing or other traffic control is available (try to use local law enforcement if
available). The Sub is complete State Form 1866 to notify other agencies of the emergency

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closure. Remember that the Level 1 inspection must be done as quickly and accurately as
possible so a determination of the extent of damage can be made and repairs started.

FIGURE A.1 Types of Road Closure sign and dimensions

FIGURE A.2 The pictures of Road Closure sign, bridge signpost and emergency cabinet

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FIGURE A.3 The map of primary routes in Vincennes District

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80
 EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS

BEFORE DURING AFTER

Develop a family earthquake plan. If indoors, stay there, take cover Check for injuries. Apply first aid.
Prepare yourself, your family and under a table, desk, or other sturdy Do not move seriously injured
your home by completing the furniture: individuals unless they are in
activities on this checklist. immediate danger.
Do not use the telephone
• Decide how and where your • Face away from windows and immediately unless there is a serious
family will reunite if separated. glass doors. injury or fire.
• Choose an out-of-state friend or • Doorways without doors are OK
relative that separated family also. • Check utilities (water, gas,
members can call after the quake to • Lay, kneel, or sit near a electric). If there is damage turn
report their whereabouts and structurally sound interior wall or utility off at the source.
condition. corner away from windows, brick • Check for other hazards and
• Know the safe spots in each fireplaces, glass walls. control them (fire, chemical spill,
room: under sturdy tables, desks, • Protect your head and body from toxic fumes and precarious collapse).
against inside walls. falling or flying objects. • Check building for cracks and
• Know the danger spots: • Remain until shaking stops. damage, including roof, chimneys,
windows, mirrors, hanging objects, Think out your plan of action first, and foundation.
fireplaces, bookcases, tall and and then move. • Check food and water supplies.
unsecured furniture. • Know exit routes if in • Emergency water can be
• Conduct practice drills. commercial building. Take cover, obtained from water heaters, melted
Physically place yourself in safe don’t move till shaking stops. ice cubes, canned vegetables, and
locations. toilet tanks.
• Learn first aid and CPR If outside, get into an open area away • Never use matches, lighters or
(cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from from trees, buildings, walls and candles inside.
your local Red Cross chapter or other power lines: • Turn on radio and listen for
community organizations. • Lie down or crouch low to emergency
• Keep a list of emergency phone maintain balance. broadcasts/announcements, news
numbers. • Get to best available shelter if reports, and instructions. Cooperate
• Learn how to shut off gas, water there not open area available. with public safety officials.
and electricity in the case the lines • Do not use your vehicle unless
are damaged. (Safety note: Do not If driving, stop safely as soon as there is an emergency. Keep the
attempt to relight gas pilot) possible. Stay inside until the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
• Secure water heater and shaking stops: • If buildings are suspect, set up
appliances that could move enough • Do not stop under overpasses or your shelter area away from damage.
to rupture lines. bridges. • Work together with your
• Secure heavy furniture, hanging • Stay below window level in your neighbors for a quicker recovery.
plants, heavy pic tures or mirrors. car. Stay calm and lend a hand to others.
• Keep flammable or hazardous • Turn off engine. • Be prepared for after shocks.
liquids in cabinets or on lower • Turn on radio. Fellow emergency • Plan for evacuation in case
shelves. Put latches on cabinet doors instructions. events make this necessary. Leave
to keep them closed during shaking. • Stay in vehicle if downed power written messages for other family
• Maintain emergency food, water lines have fallen across it. You are members or searchers.
and other supplies, including a insulated by the tires. Wait for help. • Use gloves, wear heavy shoes,
flashlight, a portable battery-operated You might be able to back away have adequate and appropriate
radio, extra batteries, medicines, first from lines. clothing available.
aid kit and clothing (for 3 day long). • If you have to leave your vehicle, • Contact to your work site and
move to open area quickly. report

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82
 Bridge

Number
Date and Local Time:

1. Collapse / Partial Collapse/

NO
YES

Name of the Inspector(s)

DRN
Roadway Closed

2. Superstructure Damage
Movement, Pounding, Buckling,

NO
YES

DRN
Cracking, Failure

3. Substructure Damage
Shear Key Damage, Local Buckling,

NO
YES

DRN
Settlement, Tilting, Sliding, Rotation,
Cracking, Failure

Roadway Problems Encountered and Comments:

4. Bearing Damage
NO Failure, Movement, Shearing or
YES

DRN
pullout of bolts

5. Soil Problems

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Slope Failure, Soil Liquefaction,
NO
YES

DRN

Fissure, Differential Settlement

6. Secondary Structure Damage

Route_______ Direction___________from Intersection___________

NO
YES

Wing walls, Parapets, Pylons

DRN

7. Explain Other Problems Observed

(Damage in Pipelines or Other Utilities etc.)
Post Earthquake Condition of the Bridge (Please write “YES, NO or DRN (Detailed Review Needed)” for items 1-6)
INDOT RAPID ASSESSMENT BRIDGE INSPECTION REPORT (LEVEL I)
Page:____of _____

RED TAG
YELLOW TAG
GREEN TAG
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 INDOT DETAILED BRIDGE INSPECTION REPORT (LEVEL II)
Route: Date and Local Time:
Bridge ID: Bridge Location :
DAMAGE OBSERVED:
1. ROADWAY/APPROACHES 4. SUPERSTRUCTURE
1 Not Operational Reinforced Concrete Slab
1 Roadway Settlement 1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks
1 Off Bridge Seat 1 Connection Failure 1 No Damage 1 N/A
1 Excessive Transversal Culverts
Movement 1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Local Buckling 1 Connection Failure
1 No Damage 1 Metal Pipes Distortion & Deflection 1 No Damage 1 N/A
1 Other (explain)
Tr Steel Truss Members, Floor Beams, Stringers
1 Local Buckling 1 Upper Chord 1 Lower Chord 1 Diagonals
1 Connection Failure 1 No Damage 1 N/A
Concrete Arches
1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Connection Failure
1 Spandrel Wall Cracking/Collapse 1 No Damage 1 N/A
Steel/Concrete Girders, Beams
1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Connection Failure 1 Local Buckling
1 No Damage 1 N/A

2. DECK 5. SUBSTRUCTURE
1 Longitudinal Joints Enlarged Abutments
1 Expansion Joints Enlarged 1 Wall Movement/Rotation 1 Pounding Damage 1 Wing wall Movement
1 Wearing Surface Cracking 1 Wing wall Separation 1 Backfill Settlement 1 Foundation Movement
1 Wearing Surface Spalling 1 Abutment Pile Damage 1 Cracking on the Walls 1 No Damage 1 N/A
1 Deck Cracking/Spalling
1 Misalignment of Guard Rails, Curbs, Piers
1 Joint Failure 1 Moment Failure 1 Shear Failure 1 Inadequate Splice Failure
Pavement Lines
1 No Damage 1 Flexural Cracks 1 Shear Cracks 1 Local Buckling 1 Foundation Failure
1 No Damage 1 N/A
3. BEARINGS 6. GEOTECHNICAL
1 Failure of Bearings 1 Slope Failure
(Integral, Contact, Rocker, 1 Settlement
Elastomeric) 1 Soil Liquefaction
1 Movement of Bearings 1 Fault Movement
1 Shearing or Pullout of Bolts 1 Other
1 No Damage 1 No Damage
1 N/A

COMMENTS FOR REPAIR AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. BARRICADE NEEDED
2. IMMEDIATE SHORE AND BRACE
3. REPAIR
3a. In-House Repair Possible
3b. Outside Contractor Needed
4. EMERGENCY VEHICLE USE ONLY
5. MONITORING UNDER SERVICE NEEDED
6. OTHER (explain)

Overall Rating For the Bridge:

SAFE (Green Tag):_______MORE REVIEW NEEDED (Yellow Tag) ________UNSAFE(Red Tag):__________
Name of the Inspector(s):

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