Lessons Learned from Bridge Collapses

Monday, September 16, 2013
3:30 - 4:30pm
102 DeBartolo

Ian R. Chin, SE, PE, RA, FASTM
Vice President and Senior Principal, Wiss, Janey, Eltsner, Associates, Inc.

After a bridge collapses, the collapsed structure is normally investigated to determine the cause(s) of the collapse. The investigation is often performed by structural engineers representing different involved parties such as the owner, design engineer, contractor, sub-contractors, material suppliers, and others. Post collapse investigations have revealed that bridge collapses generally occur as a result of improper design, improper construction, and/or unanticipated conditions.



Ian R. Chin received degrees of Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Science from the University of Illinois. He is a licensed structural engineer, professional engineer, and architect. He is a Vice President and Senior Principal with the firm of Wiss, Janney, Elstner, Associates, Inc. (WJE) where he and his associates perform investigations of distressed conditions in buildings, bridges, and other structures.