Enhancing bridge safety for mobility in Southern Africa : a study of international impact protection design practices

Abstract

This paper investigates international design practices for impact protection in bridges, focusing on enhancing safety for Southern African infrastructure. The study analyses impact protection works, such as barriers and other structures, designed to safeguard existing bridges from vehicle collisions, particularly impacts involving piers and supports. It references design criteria from Section 4.12.13 of Queensland’s Design Criteria for Bridges and Other Structures, AS 5100, Eurocode, and AASHTO. The paper explores how these international standards can be applied to enhance bridge safety practices in South Africa. By evaluating the effectiveness of these design practices, the study aims to recommend best practices for vehicle impact protection that can be incorporated into South African bridge regulations. The recommendations seek to reduce the risks posed by vehicle collisions and enhance overall bridge safety, contributing to more resilient and secure transportation infrastructure in the region.