The new reference guide replaces two current AASHTO publications, including the first edition of the MBEI, which was published in 2013, along with its 2015 interim revisions.
The updated MBEI includes standardized element definitions, element quantity calculations, condition state definitions, element feasible actions and inspection conventions. The goal of the publication is to capture the condition of bridges using standardized national terminology and calculations, while simultaneously providing flexibility to be adapted by both large and small agencies.
The second edition of MBEI attempts to cover the majority of highway bridge elements found in the U.S. and includes suggested revisions by a variety of inspection agencies, consultant inspection firms, and training instructors.
AASHTO noted that the manual is designed for use by state DOTs and other agencies that perform element-level bridge inspections.
