The Tasman Bridge collapse caused 12 deaths and untold economic damage when the SS Lake Illawarra collided with one of the pylons. Have we done enough to prevent it happening again? The bridge, a vital link between Hobart’s CBD and the town’s eastern suburbs, left 1000s needing to either board a ferry or drive to the next available river crossing. “We are designing bridges for 100-120 years, and they will be used by many people,"" Muhammad Hadi, Professor in Structural Engineering at the University of Wollongong, said. “It will be much better to spend the money now, to make things safer for everybody else." View modelling of the ship, which still sits on the seabed: https://brnw.ch/21wQjEI
Very informative 👍
Engineering advancements have significantly improved bridge safety, but the question remains—are we proactively addressing all potential risks, including ship impact, climate resilience, and evolving traffic demands? I believe continuous investment in structural monitoring and adaptive design is key to ensuring history doesn’t repeat itself.
Safety must always be a priority in infrastructure planning. Investing in resilient bridge designs today ensures a safer future for generations to come.
was there when it happened, I was due to back over it later that night most of what happened was hushed up, the main cause was that the ship speed dropped in in the high currents that meant it lost it ability to steer, and maneuver, the captain was 'intoxicated' 'pilots' were not used back then, the pyonlons on the two main Chanel were a 'floating' it mean that a slight 'brush' against them they could move slightly.
Safety must always be a priority. Investing in resilient infrastructure today ensures a safer future for generations to come.
I totally agree with this advice
The dramatic photo of two cars teetering on the edge of the collapsed deck used to be on a wall in the Department of Civil Engineering at Monash University. It was a good reminder of what can go wrong.
The provision of collision load in AASHTO takes into account the effect of such unexpected collision with the piers. The codes get refined with the time so that structures remain safe and can stand the test of time.
Director Of Operations - Meever Middle East & Meever India
2moWe continue to strongly advise contractors and project owners to consider using steel pipes or heavy-wall thickness steel pipes to protect piers and pylons. Alternatively, installing complete sheet piles can provide protection, ensuring soil remains confined and not exposed while also supporting structures during scour. Engineers Australia please consider the same and we are ready to serve you to bring such technology on board.