771.2 Bridge Cleaning and Flushing

Code: R31B or R913

Bridge cleaning and flushing is done to remove dirt and debris to allow proper drainage and drying of the deck. The dirt and debris holds moisture and chlorides that cause deterioration. Deck flushing should be done throughout the winter months when needed and temperatures safely permit. Thorough cleaning of entire bridge should be accomplished in the spring following snow season and again in the fall prior to snow season. This cleaning should include deck, piers, abutments, and lower chords of truss bridges.

Procedures

1. Set up proper traffic control.

2. Remove all dirt and debris and insure that all curb outlets and pipe drains are clean.

3. Heavy buildup of dirt and debris may require removal prior to flushing. Sweeping or brooming is beneficial to supplement flushing.

4. Adequate water supply and pressure is needed for effective flushing.

5. Spring and fall flushing should include all bridge items, drain system, drain basins, and under expansion devices.

Safety

Run off from flushing needs to be controlled to prevent property damage.

Instructions

Set up proper traffic control. Remove all dirt and debris and insure that all curb outlets and pipe drains are clean. Heavy buildup of dirt and debris may require removal prior to flushing. Sweeping or brooming is beneficial to supplement flushing.
Adequate water supply and pressure is needed for effective flushing.
Spring and fall flushing should include all bridge items, drains system, drain basins, and under expansion devices.