Author(s): Greg Paxson; Marty McCann, Jr; Mark Landis

Linked Author(s): Gregory Paxson

Keywords: Risk Management; Risk Analysis; Spillway Gates; Flood Operations

Abstract: Gated spillways are often necessary to provide both operational flexibility and discharge capacity to pass large flood events. However, gated spillways present operational challenges to dam owners and operators, often necessitating development of a flood operations plan (FOP) that is used in tandem with the dam’s emergency action plan (EAP). Even a well-intentioned and robust FOP/EAP can require personnel to predict flooding, use judgment particular to the requirements of the plan, and react quickly. In addition, all of the equipment required to operate the gates need to function as designed and be operated in accordance with the FOP. This paper presents a framework for evaluating the risks related to gate operations during floods, considering operations in accordance with the FOP, as well as operations that deviate from the FOP/EAP due to operator (human) error or system (mechanical/electrical/structural) malfunction. Case studies are presented to evaluate the downstream impacts of gate operations (or misoperation) for a range of flood events. A basis for quantitative evaluation of risks is included. Considerations for improving operation plans and replacement of spillway gates with more reliable passive systems are presented in the context of risk framework. Keywords: Risk Management, Risk Analysis, Spillway Gates, Flood Operations

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15142/T3730628160853

Year: 2016