Title: Boston Big Dig – From Bad to Worse

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Publication: CIA

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Date: 2/28/2011

Abstract:
This paper reviews primarily the industry response to a major engineering failure which occurred in July 2006 in the USA. The technical details of the incident are briefly covered to set the context for an analysis of the actions since concerning manufacturers / suppliers, the professional design community and the content of standards. In addition to significant risk remaining unmanaged it is shown how irrational responses have permitted unreasonable constraint of an otherwise valid suite of engineering solutions and processes. Aside from obvious commercial implications, this also risks damage to the credibility of the relevant engineering disciplines through systemic failure to interpret & apply appropriately the outcomes of a failure event. Finally, comment is made about the application and regulation in Australia regarding the field of structural anchorage into concrete. The main findings are not confined to the specific field of anchorage into concrete but have universal application to all engineers in all disciplines.