S6.1-M1990

Scope

The S6 Standard is prepared for use during the design of normal roadway bridges. It uses approximations to represent the load effects, which, when combined with the material resistance requirements, will result in bridges that can safely handle the vehicle weights permitted by the provincial jurisdictions in Canada. Designs based on the Standard are expected to be
reviewed and checked by a qualified person.

Many of the requirements in the Standard may also be used during the design of unusual types of structures (eg, suspension bridges) and long-span structures. However, a greater engineering effort is required to ensure the safety of such structure s and to achieve construction economies. The designer is expected to undertake the studies necessary to supplement the
provisions in the S6 Standard for these structures.

The provisions of the Standard can also be used during the design of bridges other than roadway bridges, again recognizing that special studies are required to identify appropriate loads and stability conditions.

The Canadian Standards Association no longer publishes a Standard applicable to the design of movable bridges. To fill this gap, a designer may use the structural provisions of the S6 Standard, supplemented as necessary with other standards or studies applicable to electrical, mechanical, and operational requirements of these bridges.

In adopting the limit states approach to design, the Standard now uses the same concepts as the other Canadian design standards (eg, National Building Code of Canada). However, deviations occur in the areas of resistances and, obviously, loads. The S6 Standard has tended to follow the lead of the Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code, especially with Clauses 6, 8, 10, and 11.