Framework for Risk Assessment of Structural Systems

Authors

Michael H. Faber

Abstract

The present paper provides a summary of recent work of the author on the development of 1) a new general framework for assessing risks of systems and 2) for vulnerability and robustness assessment of structural systems. The general systems risk assessment framework is to a large degree the result of recent efforts within the Joint Committee on Structural Safety (JCSS). The approach presented utilizes to a high degree the hierarchical characteristics of typical engineered systems and introduces a quantitative definition of system characteristics such as exposure, vulnerability and robustness. The approach suggested puts special emphasis on the assessment of so-called indirect consequences associated with loss of system functionality and directly related to what is generally understood as lack of robustness. The general systems robustness assessment can be utilized for the assessment of structural robustness also. The paper outlines the general principles
proposed by the JCSS and illustrates how these principles may be implemented for analyzing the performance of structures.

Published in/by

Proceedings of COST Action C26 Workshop "Urban Habitat Constructions under Catastrophic Events", eds. F. Wald, F. Mazzolani, M. Byfield, D. Dubina and M.H. Faber, Prague CZ, March 30-31, 2007