Design requirement and performance of footbridges for safety, durability and reliability

Mission Statement/Objectives

Provide a platform to exchange knowledge and enhance design and assessment strategies for footbridges, focusing on structural performance, safety, and compliance with design requirements throughout their lifecycle.

Scope

TG1.15 focuses on the design requirements and performance of footbridges, with an emphasis on safety, durability, and reliability. Our efforts are structured into three key work packages: (1) Safety Standards & Regulations, (2) Durability Considerations, (3) Reliability Considerations.

In terms of safety standards and regulations, the project ensures compliance with international and local regulations related to pedestrian safety and accessibility. Key risk factors, such as seismic activity, extreme weather conditions, and variable loads, will be carefully considered. Additionally, emphasis will be placed on the use of sustainable and cost-effective construction materials.

Durability considerations include the application of advanced inspection methods, such as non-destructive testing and structural health monitoring. Strategies for corrosion prevention, fatigue resistance, and long-term maintenance planning will be developed to enhance structural longevity. The selection of high-performance materials and construction techniques will further contribute to extending the service life of footbridges.

Regarding reliability, existing footbridges will be assessed for structural integrity, material degradation, and compliance with safety standards. Optimized designs will be developed, taking into account environmental loads, pedestrian dynamics, and material efficiency to improve overall performance and long-term sustainability.

Limitations

The general limitation is fact that different administrative zones may have varying safety and design standards, requiring adaptations to local guidelines. To address this limitation, an international group of experts will be assembled. Leveraging their experience, a comprehensive review of standards will be conducted.

Expected Project Output

• Four webinars on the topic of 'Safety in Footbridge Design’
• SED book containing guidelines for the design of footbridges for safety and durability
• Special session in the IABSE conference in 2029
• Special issue in SEI journal
• 4 papers: 2 research + 2 reviews

Start Date: 1 June 2025
Target Date of Completion: 1 August 2029

Chair
Isabela Drygala, Poland

Vice Chair
Mirko Kosič, Slovenia

Members

Marek Pańtak, Poland

Paweł Hawryszków, Poland

Yves Reuland, Switzerland

Dimitrios Piskas, Switzerland

Chiara Bedon, Italy