Risk Analysis in Highway Construction Projects Using Failure Mode & Effect Analysis

Abstract

Risks in any construction projects affect the cost, time and quality of work, so it is required to analyze and response the risks before occurring any harm. This research presents a complete framework to identify, assesses, and response the risk events in highway construction projects. Failure Mode & Effect Analysis (FMEA) is a structured technique which is recognized as one of the most suitable technique to analyze risk factors. In this research each risk is considered as failure mode. In FMEA Risks are prioritized on the basis of Risk Priority Number (RPN). RPN is multiplication of occurrence, consequence and detectability of risk. A risk having higher RPN than others means that it requires more attention for responses than others. In this research 48 risk factors are identified by literature review and discussion with highway construction experts. Occurrence, consequence and detectability of each risk factor are elicited from highway construction experts on 5 point scale during questionnaire survey. RPN is calculated after unifying the questionnaire data using Relative Importance Index (RII). This research also proposes a risk allocation plan and risk response strategy to each risk factor.