1.1 This practice establishes a standard for loading bridge deck test modules, in the laboratory, for static and fatigue investigation of anticipated performance of bridge decks in the field.

1.2 Testing of bridge decks is required for any substantive innovation in the structural system, the material used, or both.

1.3 Testing of bridge decks also is required when the deck is composite with innovative floorsystem framing or with an innovative primary structural system proposed for use for the first time.

1.4 The specific objectives of the testing may be to study stress distribution in the deck, fatigue-prone details, wearing surface delamination potential, freeze-thaw damage resistance, or to provide experimental data for a life-cycle evaluation.

1.5 Testing of bridge decks should replicate the loading imposed by legal truck tires. Failure to do so in the past has produced possibly misleading information. Inconsistent test methodologies specially designed to justify a specific design cannot advance the knowledge of bridge deck behavior in an orderly and consistent manner.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.