This paper presents a novel approach to the creation of a ranking list of bridges with the highest priority for repair, renovation or exchange. Two main aspects addressed herein are studied. First concerning parameters, which must be taken into account while creating the list of bridges with priority for repair or renovation. Second concerning proposition of algorithms for creating such list. A set of factors that affect this priority has been created; the three main ones were selected: technical condition factor, safety factor and the importance for the roads network factor. Three self-reliant algorithms of the ranking list creation are presented. One of them is the so-called “expert algorithm”, based on artificial neural networks – gives the best result and has been indicated as the recommended one. This algorithm, engaging back-propagation multilayer artificial neural network, is implemented in the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways in Poland and is applied as a supporting tool in managing road-engineering structures.

The article discusses "Rules for using the point rating scales for assessing the technical condition and usability of road engineering objects -second edition", which were introduced by the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (GDDKiA) Regulation No. 1/2019. The main objective of "Rules..." was to standardize the method of point rating assessment of technical condition and usability, and in the second edition, to take into account the latest construction and material solutions. Because the results of inspections are analyzed and compared not only at the regional but also at the national level, it is very important for all inspectors in the country to evaluate the technical condition and usability in an analogous manner. While developing the 2nd edition, the authors maintained the assumptions of continuity of inspection system, including adaptation to the inspection manuals, algorithms, and software supporting the management of bridges.