Risk-Based Sewer Asset Management

Abstract

This thesis examines the implementation of risk-based sewer asset management, with a specific focus on addressing the existing shortcomings in current practices. Notably, the neglect of sewer failure risks often leads to suboptimal allocation of resources. The primary aim of this research is to develop a comprehensible methodology for risk-based sewer asset management in the Netherlands. The proposed methodology employs a combined risk matrix approach to assess the level of risk associated with sewer collapse. This assessment takes into account both the probability of failure and the potential consequences of such failures. The thesis primarily focuses on the risk of sewer collapse within the context of the Netherlands. To demonstrate the applicability of the methodology, a case study is conducted in the municipality of Nissewaard. The outcomes of this case study are then compared to the conventional approach employed in Dutch sewer asset management. Through this analysis, the study emphasizes the necessity of establishing a practical roadmap for implementing risk-based sewer asset management. Additionally, recommendations are made for enhancing the objectivity of sewer inspections and developing a sewer deterioration model. The findings reveal that the adoption of risk-based asset management is more cost-effective in mitigating the risk of sewer collapse when compared to the prevailing replacement strategy. The research aims to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application by providing a straightforward methodology grounded in prior research. In order to advance the field of risk-based approaches, this study calls for further research into the potential obstacles associated with implementing risk-based asset management. Such investigations will contribute to a better understanding of the challenges and facilitate the successful adoption of risk-based sewer asset management practices.