A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON HIGHWAY BRIDGE DESIGN CHECK AND REVIEW SYSTEM IN JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES AND EUROPE

Abstract

 The purpose of this study is to clarify the characteristics of the Japanese standard system by comparing it to other nations' systems. A literature search on systems was primary source of material for this study. Interviews on some systems were also conducted. The comparison clarified the characteristics of the Japanese standard system as follows. It does not have strong binding power for a client since it does not clearly set out the obligation to review a design. It does not have strong binding power for a design consultant and a contractor since a client does not verify if they have carried out a rigorous check. It does not give a design consultant and a contractor any incentives to comply with it and does not give a checker any disincentives not to comply with it. Hence it does not ensure that the players review or check.