The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) has begun integrity tests on Eko, Ijora and Marine bridges.
The General Manager of LSMTL, Mr. Olufunsho Elulade, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the checks on the three bridges were to determine their structural stability, to prevent collapse.
He said the checks were
requested by contractors handling rehabilitation works on the facilities.
Elulade explained that samples were being taken from the bridges to test and ascertain if previous fires that gutted them at various times weakened any of their components or not.
He said the technicalities behind the tests were to ensure that the bridges were safe for use.
“Our input is very key because it will be based on our recommendation and the solution we proffer; that is what they (contractor) will do.
“So, as I speak, we are testing three bridges because the contractor just felt he will rather come to Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory because of their integrity. We work conscientiously and we have expertise.
“I have builders, geologists, civil engineers, materials engineers, name it. So, the expertise is there. The worst case scenario, it will come to me, I am a COREN registered engineer, a civil engineer and project manager with 30 years’ experience.
“So, whatever it is, we will fix. We are testing three bridges, Ijora Courseway, Eko Bridge and Marine in Apapa; work is ongoing and we started on February 28 and we have 14 days, so we are working through the 14 days,” he said.
Elulade said the results from the laboratory would determine the advice to be given concerning the bridges.