Lateral stability of precast, prestressed concrete bridge girders is a life safety issue whose importance is not always understood or properly addressed. Significant research into this topic has been performed by the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) Committee on Bridges Girder Stability Subcommittee. As a result of this research, the Recommended Practice for Lateral Stability of Precast, Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders was developed and released by PCI in February 2016.

These courses present the background and theory of lateral stability contained in this document for all stages of construction from initial fabrication of the prestressed girders until they are fully incorporated into a bridge. 

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

• Identify the equilibrium conditions for girders erected on site.
• Evaluate concrete stresses for erected girders and factors of safety against cracking, failure and rollover.
• Learn the means to increase the factors of safety against cracking, failure and rollover.
• Understand critical stability issues at:
  • Precast manufacture
  • Shipping to site
  • Girder erection at project site
  • During deck construction
• Understand the role of the Stability Engineer in addressing these critical stability issues.