An index-based multi-hazard risk assessment method for prioritisation of existing bridge portfolios

Abstract

In recent years, several catastrophic collapses of existing bridges have highlighted the need for rapid risk analysis methods aimed at supporting infrastructure managers in the prioritisation of detailed assessments and, if any, risk mitigation actions. A large percentage of existing road bridges were built between the 1960s and 1980s, having thus already reached or even exceeded their design lifetime. Several studies have also shown that bridges often collapse due to either natural or human-related events, such as floods, collisions or overloading that, in addition to earthquakes, should be duly considered in risk assessment. This calls for multi-hazard approaches that provide an integrated perspective of the risk of bridge portfolios, to identify critical structures to support decision-makers. This study proposes a multi-hazard risk-based prioritisation methodology for application to a large number of bridges under limited level of knowledge. Specifically, the risk level is quantified through indices, accounting for uncertainties, that are used for comparative purposes among bridges. The methodology is applied to a highway bridge portfolio located in northern Italy, producing a risk-based ranking that is critically discussed. Analysis results are then compared with the outcome of the current Italian guidelines for safety assessment and maintenance of existing bridges.