Forensic engineering and collapse databases

Abstract

Collapses in civil engineering are not uncommon. Some cases become known worldwide but, in many cases, the details only reach the limited audience of the client and companies directly involved. In these latter situations, after in-depth analysis of the disaster, useful information could have been obtained and shared. Collapses of structures can result from many factors (loading, material, organisation, lack of maintenance, etc.) but analysis of failures can always identify lessons for improved practice. Forensic engineering based on post-mortem analysis aims to understand the reason for failures in order to learn useful lessons. At the present time, however, forensic engineering is still an unknown concept for many French engineers. This paper demonstrates from general considerations, with a few examples, what can be gained from collating ‘collapse experiences’ on a more formal basis. Three famous French cases of collapse are analysed. The use of organised feedback and databases for risk management in civil engineering projects, for teaching and for improving the quality of work is explained.