Title: Enhancing risk assessment of bridge construction: applying an integrated failure mode and effect analysis and analytic hierarchy process methods

Authors: Souad Nouri R. Dakel; Jose Eduardo Munive-Hernandez; Amir Khan

Addresses: School of Built Environment, Architecture and Creative Industries, Faculty of Engineering and Digital Technologies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK ' School of Built Environment, Architecture and Creative Industries, Faculty of Engineering and Digital Technologies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK ' School of Built Environment, Architecture and Creative Industries, Faculty of Engineering and Digital Technologies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK

Abstract: Bridge construction projects demand a rigorous risk assessment process to ensure safety and structural integrity. Traditional risk assessment methods often operate in isolation, failing to manage risks objectively and effectively. This paper addresses this gap by integrating the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) to assess risks in bridge construction projects. The proposed methodology identifies potential hazards and uses FMEA to calculate the risk priority number (RPN) for identified risks. These risks are further assessed through AHP, combining quantitative and qualitative evaluations. This approach leads to a more objective and effective risk evaluation, resulting in more reliable ranking and prioritisation of risks. By applying this novel approach, decision-making and risk mitigation strategies can be enhanced, improving the overall safety of bridge construction practices. This approach is validated with its application to the Jofra footbridge project in Libya.

Keywords: failure mode and effect analysis; FMEA; analytic hierarchy process; AHP; risk priority number; RPN; construction projects; risk management; risk assessment; Jofra footbridge.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCIS.2026.154741

International Journal of Critical Infrastructures, 2026 Vol.22 No.3, pp.243 - 260

Received: 08 Dec 2023
Accepted: 14 May 2024
Published online: 13 Jul 2026 *

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