COURSE DESCRIPTION:

The Bridge Construction Inspection Course (BCIC) is one of the core curriculum initiatives cited by AASHTO, FHWA, and the five regional organizations. These core curriculum initiatives are being pursued in order to maximize regional, public, and industry resources in the development of core training and qualification-based certification programs, improve the quality of bridge construction, and promote uniformity in training content and qualification requirements.

Overall, the BCIC improves quality, ensures uniformity, and establishes minimum competencies for bridge construction inspection. The underlying themes of the course can be broken down into key segments. The BCIC will provide the construction inspector with:

1. The requisite knowledge of construction that will make him/her an effective inspector

2. An overall awareness of the problems and consequences that can arise during construction and how these factors will impact the safety and service life of the structure

3. A knowledge of the inspections that should be performed to confirm conformance to the contract documents, or document contract nonconformance

OUTCOMES:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Explain the role of the construction inspector as part of the overall project team
• Interpret drawings and specifications
• Anticipate possible construction and materials problems
• Maintain bridge controls for location and elevation
• Describe construction sequence for various bridge systems (e.g. foundations, substructures, superstructures, and miscellaneous systems), bridge types and materials
• Conduct regular systematic inspections of materials and standards of construction, through the use of job aids, such as checklists
• Explain and perform basic inspection and testing of materials
• Perform accurate surveys and checking of dimensions
• Make and maintain sufficient records

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Construction supervisors, transportation department field inspectors, field engineers, resident engineers, structural engineers, materials engineers, and other technical personnel involved in the construction inspection of bridges. The course is developed for participants without an in-depth engineering background. However, more knowledgeable persons can attend and will add to the overall effectiveness of the training through their active participation.

If you have questions about this NHI training, please contact NHI at nhicustomerservice@dot.gov or 877.558.6873.