Infrastructure Systems Interdependencies and Risk Informed Decision Making (RIDM): Impact Scenario Analysis of Infrastructure Risks Induced by Natural, Technological and Intentional Hazards

Infrastructure can be defined as physical assets that are capable of an intended service delivery, comprising of rigid assets such as buildings, roads, bridges, and facilities, as well as flexible assets such as utilities and facilities related to water, sewage, power etc. including their systems and machinery. Infrastructure systems can be viewed as a structured network of interdependent mechanisms that enable the service delivery capability of physical assets predominantly inherent to infrastructure. Infrastructure systems are frequently connected at multiple points through a wide variety of mechanisms, such that a bi-directional relationship exists between the states of any given pair of infrastructures. Such bidirectional relationships or interdependencies among infrastructure systems dramatically increase the overall complexity of the “system of systems” of multiple infrastructures. This paper reviews current research into infrastructure systems interdependencies with regard to safety risks induced by natural, technological and intentional hazards. The paper further considers risk informed decision-making relating to questions such as: • What analytic methods can capture, clarify, and predict the complex behaviours of infrastructure systems? • Which measures of performance adequately describe systems complexity? • How can risk and uncertainty be incorporated into the management of infrastructure systems? • What are the safety risks induced by natural, technological, as well as intentional hazards? • What would be the best approach to disaster management in view of multiple infrastructure systems interdependencies? • Who are the principal decision makers and stakeholders, and what are their goals and objectives. • What are the most appropriate response measures and adaptation strategies? • What real contribution does scientific research have into hazards and risks of facilities, utilities, transport and services infrastructure?