PROFESSIONAL ETHICS ASSIGNMENT

TOPIC CHOSEN ; BRIDGE COLLAPSE

WHAT FAILED;

One notable example of a bridge collapse in the last 10 years is the Morandi Bridge collapse in
Genoa, Italy. On August 14, 2018, a section of the Morandi Bridge, also known as the Polcevera
Viaduct, collapsed during heavy rain, resulting in the tragic loss of 43 lives.

The Morandi Bridge was a key highway viaduct that spanned the Polcevera River and several
buildings in the city of Genoa. The collapse was believed to be caused by a combination of factors,
including structural deficiencies, lack of maintenance, and heavy rainfall. Investigations pointed to a
flawed design and insufficient structural support as contributing factors to the disaster.

The collapse of the Morandi Bridge highlighted the importance of infrastructure maintenance and
the need for regular inspections to ensure the safety of bridges and other critical structures. It also
led to a broader discussion about the state of aging infrastructure in various parts of the world and
the need for proper investment and attention to prevent similar incidents.

WHY IT FAILED;

The collapse of the Morandi Bridge in Genoa, Italy, on August 14, 2018, was the result of a
combination of factors. Investigations into the collapse identified the following key causes:

1. Structural Deficiencies: The design of the Morandi Bridge was identified as flawed, particularly in
terms of its stays and reinforced concrete sections. The bridge relied on a cable-stayed design, with
prestressed reinforced concrete elements. It was found that the design did not adequately account
for the dynamic loads and stresses the bridge experienced over time.

2. Lack of Maintenance: Insufficient maintenance and neglect of the bridge's structural integrity were
significant factors. The Morandi Bridge was over 50 years old at the time of the collapse, and regular
maintenance and repairs had not been conducted adequately. Corrosion and degradation of the
bridge's concrete and steel elements, including the stay cables, were observed.

3. Heavy Rainfall: The collapse occurred during a period of heavy rainfall. The increased weight and
stress from the rainwater, combined with the existing structural deficiencies and lack of
maintenance, likely played a role in triggering the collapse.

The investigations following the collapse also pointed to organizational and management failures in
the maintenance and oversight of the bridge. The collapse of the Morandi Bridge led to renewed
scrutiny of infrastructure safety and maintenance practices in Italy and other parts of the world,
emphasizing the importance of regular inspections, proper maintenance, and investment in aging
infrastructure.

HOW TO PREVENT THE COLLAPSE OF THE BRIDGE

To prevent the collapse of the Morandi Bridge in Genoa, Italy, several measures could have been
taken:

1. Regular Inspections: Implementing a rigorous inspection schedule is crucial for identifying and
addressing any structural issues or signs of deterioration promptly. Regular inspections would have
allowed for the detection of the bridge's flaws, such as the insufficient structural support and signs of
corrosion, before they became critical.

2. Maintenance and Repairs: Adequate maintenance and repair works are essential for preserving
the structural integrity of bridges. Regular maintenance activities, including cleaning, painting, and
repairs to damaged components, should be carried out to prevent the degradation of materials and
ensure the bridge remains in good condition.

3. Retrofitting and Upgrading: Considering the age of the Morandi Bridge, retrofitting and upgrading
measures could have been implemented to strengthen its structural elements and improve its load-
bearing capacity. This could include reinforcing key components, such as the stays and reinforced
concrete sections, to better withstand dynamic loads and stresses.

4. Improved Design and Construction: Reevaluating the original design of the bridge and ensuring
that it meets modern standards and best practices is crucial. If flaws are identified in the design,
corrective measures should be taken during construction or subsequent renovations to rectify those
issues.

5. Enhanced Oversight and Regulations: Strengthening oversight and regulatory frameworks for
bridge construction and maintenance is essential. This includes enforcing strict standards for design,
construction, and maintenance practices, as well as ensuring compliance through regular audits and
inspections.

6. Investment in Infrastructure: Adequate financial investment in infrastructure is necessary to

By implementing these measures, the collapse of the Morandi Bridge could have potentially been
prevented or mitigated,
ensuring the safety of the structure and the people who depend on it.

WHO WAS AT FAULT FOR THE COLLAPSE AND WHY;

Determining fault in complex incidents like the collapse of the Morandi Bridge involves a thorough
investigation and analysis by relevant authorities and experts. The investigations into the collapse of
the Morandi Bridge in Genoa, Italy, identified multiple parties that shared responsibility for the
disaster. Here are some of the key entities that were found to be at fault:

1. Autostrade per l'Italia (ASPI): ASPI, the company responsible for operating and maintaining the
bridge, was criticized for inadequate maintenance and neglect of the bridge's structural integrity.
They were held accountable for the lack of timely repairs and inspections, as well as the failure to
address known issues and signs of deterioration.

2. Design Flaws: The design of the Morandi Bridge itself was identified as flawed. The investigation
revealed that the bridge's structural design did not adequately account for the dynamic loads and
stresses it experienced over time. Design errors and insufficient structural support were considered
contributing factors to the collapse.

3. Government Oversight: The government agencies responsible for overseeing the maintenance and
safety of infrastructure, including the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, were also criticized for
their inadequate oversight. There were concerns raised about the effectiveness of inspections,
enforcement of maintenance requirements, and coordination between various agencies responsible
for infrastructure safety.

4. Construction Companies: The companies involved in the construction of the bridge were
scrutinized for potential flaws in the construction process that may have contributed to the collapse.
The quality of materials used and construction techniques employed were examined as part of the
investigation.

It's important to note that the determination of fault and legal accountability may vary based on
specific legal proceedings and the outcomes of ongoing investigations or legal cases. The information
available up until my knowledge cutoff in September 2021 did not provide a final verdict on legal
culpability. Therefore, for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the legal consequences
and liability regarding the collapse of the Morandi Bridge, it is recommended to refer to the latest
official reports and legal developments.

LACK OF PROFESSIONALISM;

1. INADEQUATE MAINTANENCE PRACTICES

The corrosion of the Morandi Bridge: the story of a predictable collapse? - IPCM

Ponte Morandi - Wikipedia

What caused the Genoa bridge collapse – and the end of an Italian national myth? | Cities |
The Guardian