The Substructures course is the second course in the Construction Inspection of Structures Series. This course provides an introduction to substructures and key inspection elements, specifically the components that support the girders or beams of the superstructure deck, such as abutments, bents, and piers.
Topics include general construction considerations, reinforcement and falsework, bridge drainage, cast-in-place, precast, 3D technology, and as-builts.
The Construction Inspection of Structures Series consists of four separate, standalone courses that provide introductory information on foundations (below the ground), substructures (below the bearings), superstructures (above the substructure), and rehabilitation (repair of structures). The other three courses in the series are:
- Construction Inspection of Structures Series: Subsurface (TC3CN053-17-T1);
- Construction Inspection of Structures Series: Rehabilitation and Maintenance (TC3MN032-17-T1); and
- Construction Inspection of Structures Series: Superstructures (TC3CN055-17-T1).
Training level: This training is recommended for the Transportation Curriculum Coordination Council levels I, II, III, and IV.
Target audience: This course is designed for individuals with an interest in bridge construction in the following roles: minimal experience and/or entry level construction engineers, inspectors, and technicians. This training is focused toward the technicians and inspectors, but is also an excellent refresher for supervisors and managers.
Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Identify the key types, activities, and safety practices involved in substructure construction;
- Describe how falsework and forms are used to prepare the substructure for bridge construction;
- Identify the different types of retaining walls and their applications;
- Explain how retaining walls are inspected during construction;
- Describe the different types of abutments and their applications; and
- Explain how abutments are inspected during construction.