The use of a risk based approach to identify the uncertainties associated with flooding of highway drainage infrastructure

Barnett, Sally Jillian Anthony (2016). The use of a risk based approach to identify the uncertainties associated with flooding of highway drainage infrastructure. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The strategic and local road networks are together the United Kingdom’s most valuable infrastructure assets. Roads deteriorate over time as a function of traffic and the environment and must be maintained appropriately to preserve their asset value in order to help support the economy. Furthermore, well maintained roads reduce road user costs via lowering vehicle operating costs, reducing accidents, delays and litigation.

Amongst other projections, climate change indicators suggest there will be warmer wetter winters and an increase in extreme weather events such as heavy rains. Increased heavy rainfall events will adversely influence the road infrastructure and place more demands on maintenance.

The inherent risks in highway infrastructure assets and those associated with future climate predictions must be better understood and incorporated within decision support models to enable highway engineers and asset managers make better, more informed decisions regarding infrastructure maintenance.

By combining the risk management process and drainage network analysis this study explored the risks and their potential impacts within a road network. This resulted in a proposed methodology for the identification of parts of a network to be most at flood risk.

Data in respect of the risks and their probability of occurrence, for use within the model was obtained through a questionnaire completed by highway drainage engineers at various locations in the UK.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):