ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses some of the principles and practices applicable to the construction of medium-and long-span steel bridges — structures of such size and complexity that construction engineering becomes an important or even the governing factor in the successful fabrication and erection of the superstructure steelwork. It deals with an explanation of the fundamental nature of construction engineering and explains some of the challenges and obstacles involved. A considerable design engineering effort is required to prepare a good set of contract documents. The bridge designer does have a certain responsibility to his client and to the public in respect to the erection of the bridge steelwork. Managers in the construction industry must look critically at costs, and they can readily develop the attitude that their engineers are doing unnecessary theoretical studies and calculations, detached from the practical world. Even with the best of intentions, the bidder’s allocation of money to construction engineering can be inadequate.
