Currently, bridge load tests use the verification coefficient to evaluate the structural performance of bridges in China, but this method is unsuitable. This paper presents a method that utilizes reliability to compare the actual bridge structural performance with the designed performance. Reliability functions for strain and deflection in load testing of simply supported beam bridges were established. The Monte Carlo calculation method of component reliability and the implementation process of the MATLAB program are introduced. The factors affecting the reliability assessment of the load test are discussed. For specific examples, the strain and deflection reliability of each component are calculated. Finally, the calculation process for the reliability of the test span’s series system was established using the reliability block diagram (RBD) method. The findings indicate that the reliability index under eccentric load conditions is calculated to be 3.7, while it is 2.7 under central load conditions; both indices fall within the target reliability index range for the serviceability limit states (SLSs). The overall structural performance of the examined bridge can be considered to meet the design performance requirements. This research enhances the comprehensiveness and precision of existing bridge load testing and evaluation methods, aligning them with bridge design specifications that are predicated on reliability.
Liu et al. (Thu,) studied this question.