Chapter 3 Managing risk in structural engineering

Any design is a process of risk management – organising resources so as to maximise the potential for success and minimise the potential for loss. Much of the time, the engineer is concerned with safety, durability and serviceability; for the user, this translates to reliable and cost-effective service in support of the building’s function. Many day-to-day risks will be dealt with by any accepted and conventional design process, provided that process is suitable for the case in hand. Modern codes use more explicitly risk-based processes to provide standard numerical allowances to cover commonly experienced risks. More direct management of risk involves identifying performance requirements and the hazards that threaten them. By this means, the engineer and client can more closely appreciate how risks may affect the structure’s use and how to control the risks to acceptable levels.