Simplified quantitative risk assessment for hydraulic gates

In many dam projects, the mechanical and electrical systems/components associated with the operation of spillway and low-level outlet gates can be regarded as ‘safety critical’. This is due to the fact that failure to operate gates as and when required can have a detrimental effect on the ability of the dam to pass flood flows. It should also be noted that gates and their operating mechanisms are particularly vulnerable during extreme events such as violent electrical storms, hurricanes and earthquakes. This paper will focus on spillway gates.