The collapse frequency and failure probability of retaining structures

Abstract

In this contribution observed median collapse frequencies and calculated median failure probabilities of retaining structures are compared. Such comparisons have already been carried out for bridges, dams, tunnels, buildings, stadiums and wind turbines. The comparison is carried out as a meta-analysis using values from the literature. Furthermore, collapse frequencies due to earthquakes were determined by the authors’ own calculations. The comparison of median collapse frequencies and median failure probabilities of retaining structures shows a good agreement. The ratio of the median failure probability and the median collapse frequency is in the range of other engineering structures. However, the comparison with other engineering structures shows an above-average frequency of collapses. This seemingly accepted high frequency of collapse appears to be justified by the lower number of victims and lower damage costs when retaining structures fail.