As part of its efforts to ensure sustainability and durability of asphalt on the road network, the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal' organized an intensive training workshop for Qatari engineers involved in supervision of road inspection, and their partner contractors working in the operation and maintenance of roads. The training covered techniques of classifying pavement distress and rectifying them as per the highest international standards.

The three-day training workshop titled "Pavement Distress Identification" aimed at accrediting and equipping engineering leaders and their partners involved in operation and maintenance of roads, with the latest tools and techniques for accurately assessing road distress and resolving them. The workshop was part of the strategy for operation and preventive maintenance of the road network.

The training courses covered different types and causes of pavement distress, how to measure them and determine their extent. It also included field exercises and a live demonstration of how to measure and determine risk levels, and storing them in the asset management system to determine the best maintenance method. This training session was part of the continuous improvement plan for road operation and maintenance practices in Ashghal. The plan aims to raise the operational efficiency of road networks in Qatar, improve the quality of data collection of pavement conditions, and the application of leading global practices within the works of Ashghal and its contracting partners, besides developing the capabilities of workers in the field.

On his part, Assistant Manager of Roads Operation and Maintenance Department Eng. Jamal Al Ansari commented: "With the rapid development and growth of the road network and the increase in volume of traffic, the challenges of maintaining the efficiency and durability of roads also increase. One of the highest efficiency in meeting these challenges lies in enhancing road safety, reducing the total cost of road operation and maintenance, and enhancing customer satisfaction."

He further explained that defect classification data are an essential input into the road network management process to meet the required maintenance needs in a timely manner and to maintain safe and sound network. The Roads Operation and Maintenance Department will continue to hold workshops for inspectors and contractors to qualify them to ensure effective implementation of road maintenance strategy in Qatar.

 

It is worth noting that the trainees received a full explanation of the guide to asphalt distress manual, the recently issued updated version that deals with identifying the most common faults affecting the road network's efficiency and how to measure and classify those faults and their causes. The manual also identifies and classifies the extent and severity of each defect and divides them into different degrees, thus choosing the appropriate type and timing of maintenance for each road in accordance with the international standards and practices followed. (QNA)