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New ASCE Publication Examines the Progress made on the Application of Risk-Based Structural Evaluation Methods

New ASCE Publication Examines the Progress made on the Application of Risk-Based Structural Evaluation Methods

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Reston, Va. – The interest in risk analysis techniques has intensified following recent extraordinarily destructive events. While risk analysis principles are well established from a theoretical point of view; several barriers have hampered a wide-scale implementation of risk-based methods in decision-making processes. ASCE’s new book, Risk-Based Structural Evaluation Methods: Best Practices and Development of Standards, summarizes the findings from a survey of attitudes of researchers, structural engineers, and government agencies to risk-based practices.

This book examines the progress made on the application of risk-based structural evaluation methods (RBSEM) and provides recommendations to help enhance their implementation in engineering practice. Issues addressed include:

  • Hazard assessment and statistical projection of expected extreme natural and human-made events,
  • Probabilistic analysis of structural systems,
  • Assessment of physical damage to structures and infrastructure, and
  • Establishing optimum risk acceptance criteria.

This report will be a valuable resource for engineers, owners, regulators, and policy makers working toward implementation of RBsEM as the basis for managing our structure and infrastructure systems.

About ASCE

Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 150,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. ASCE works to raise awareness of the need to maintain and modernize the nation’s infrastructure using sustainable and resilient practices, advocates for increasing and optimizing investment in infrastructure, and seeks to “Raise the Bar” on engineering knowledge and competency.