Discussion on Papers 17–20

Mr J. REICHERT (Belgian Road Research Centre):The development of road systems and growth in traffic, particularly heavy vehicles, have resulted in greater awareness of the economic importance of maintenance. Users are more and more exacting with regard to safety, travel comfort and continuity 'of service and maintenance techniques are being improved. Many countries have opted for a programmed preventive maintenance which makes it possible not only to protect the structures but also to adapt them to the change in traffic. When seeking the optimum balance between budgetary constraints and user requirements, the medium- and long-term profits and costs for the whole of society must be taken