Bridge-lish.
Noun.
The combination of English and Bridge to create an international language of understanding. An invented dialect used exclusively by bridge engineers and workers who are from different nations and cannot understand each other’s native tongue. Usually accompanied by hand gestures, vigorous nodding and shaking of heads. Commonly used alongside scribbles on back of napkins, concrete or some other media.
Our Northern Irish globe trotter Stephen Knox recalls one of his favourite bridge projects in Japan, working alongside Russian, Filipino, French and Japanese nationals. It was on this job he became fluent in Bridge-lish.
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IKUNO BRIDGE | JAPAN
During his time running round Asia supporting the delivery of major cable stayed bridges with VSL, Stephen had the chance to work on the Ikuno bridge in Japan. The structure was a composite steel box girder with 220m main span as part of an expressway project outside Osaka.
This was the first time an international cable stayed company had installed this system in Japan and the first use of a saddle and friction damper system for cable stayed bridges in Japan.
In addition to fond memories in taking the Japanese clients to Spain for the inspection of the production of the components (along with a few red wines along the way...), Stephen loved the different lens through which the Japanese construction team viewed bridge construction. Stephen was forced to dive into the details of how the cable stayed components were designed, manufactured and then installed.
He had the pleasure of visiting Japan across numerous stages of the cable stay install and mobilised a small team with Russian, Philippines and French nationalities to complete the installation. He was also able to develop new equipment and installation techniques to suit the new cable stayed system.
As you could imagine, dealing with so many cultures and attitudes to the construction was challenging, it was hugely enjoyable in the moments when all parties understood and respected each other’s knowledge and point of view on any particular topic. A truly international endeavour which helped Stephen understand the importance of clear communication.
An impressive structure in a very seismic and incredibly picturesque area using all sorts of novel construction and design solutions - it was a true privilege to be involved in the project and amongst such a respectful and capable team both in VSL and Taisei.
