Risk assessment of dams

The risk assessments focus on identifying potential risk factors, evaluating probabilities and consequences, and proposing and assessing mitigation measures to reduce risk. This work provides our clients with a solid foundation for identifying and managing risks associated with their dams, ensuring that the facilities are operated in accordance with national and international safety principles.

As part of NGI’s work on dam risk assessments, we have, through the nationally funded R&D project Damsikkerhet i et helhetlig perspektiv (DSHP), developed a Handbook for Risk Assessment of Dams in Norway  on behalf of Fornybar Norge. The handbook provides a structured approach to risk assessment and serves as an important tool for ensuring dam safety in accordance with international standards and national requirements. The handbook presents a comprehensive approach to risk assessment, including hazard analysis, consequence analysis, and risk acceptance criteria. It describes how risks can be quantified and visualized using risk diagrams, and provides examples of applying various analysis methods such as event tree analysis, fault tree analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations. The handbook also emphasizes the importance of effective risk communication and emergency preparedness. It provides guidelines on how dam owners can inform affected stakeholders and authorities, and how emergency plans should be developed and tested. Furthermore, the handbook compares Norwegian practice with international standards and methods, offering insights into how dam risk assessments are carried out in other countries.

NGI’s contribution has been an important contribution to establishing a common understanding and practice for risk assessment among dam owners in Norway. Our work helps strengthen the dam safety culture in the industry and contributes to a more systematic and documented approach to identifying and managing risks.