A practical method to assess risks from large wood debris accumulations at bridge piers

摘要: Abstract Accumulations of large woody debris can worsen scour at a bridge pier and thereby lead to structural damage. also increase the flood risk in adjacent areas. These consequences cause disruption local communities even pose human life. Current methodologies acknowledge existence these effects but do not provide practical method, usable by engineers practitioners, assess potential for accumulation structure based on readily available data. This work aims address this need proposing methodology direct indirect observations. Using methodology, desk-based analysis be performed whether is prone formation accumulations. Direct observations may include information from inspection reports, satellite imagery tree removal works, while use related geographical location such as other structures that share watercourse or presence forested areas its proximity. has been applied authority-owned bridges Devon, UK. Results show number (100 out over 3000 bridges) are liable served primary evidence 80% For many cases, existed corroborate suggesting relied upon. The proposed prioritisation inspections assessment. showed accumulations would prioritised aftermath floods due their significantly higher debris.