Bridges

AS 5100, the Australian Bridge Design Code, is currently under review. AS 5100.1, Scope and General Principles, sets out the requirements for the design of new bridges, using limit states principles for bridges associated with roads, rail, tramways, pedestrian traffic and cycleways. It also sets out the design requirements for other structures that support road and rail traffic such as culverts, retaining structures, deflection walls, crash walls and sign gantries.The review of AS 5100 and Part 1 commenced in late 2011. Overall, Part 1 has been updated to reflect current technology and philosophy and to address any recent feedback from industry. The more significant changes include the addition of guidance on safety in design and sustainability and climate change, further guidance on collision protection and utilities, and clarification on special studies.This paper provides an overview of the proposed changes and discusses in greater detail the more significant changes.