Risk Management in the Construction Industry Using Combined Fuzzy FMEA and Fuzzy AHP

Abstract

Failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) is recognized as one of the most beneficial techniques in reliability programs. FMEA is a structured technique that can help in identifying all failure modes within a system, assessing their impact, and planning for corrective actions. Although this technique has been widely used in many industries, it has some limitations. The purpose of this paper is to extend the application of FMEA to risk management in the construction industry. Fuzzy logic and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP) are used to address the limitations of traditional FMEA. In essence, this method explores the concept of fuzzy expert systems to map the relationship between impact (I), probability of occurrence (P), and detection/control (D) and the level of criticality of risk events. A case study is presented to validate the concept. The results obtained confirm the capability of fuzzy FMEA and fuzzy AHP to address several drawbacks of the traditional FMEA application. The use of this approach can support the project management team to establish corrective actions in a timely manner.