The choice of optimal checking strategies for error control in structural engineering

Probabilistic models are given for estimatingthe error content in a structure afte.r thre" application of a checking strategy with given efficiency. The use of these models to optimize the level of effort expended on error control is illustrated. The analysis is carried out using-a Bayesian-decisiorv-theory approach,-and an overall model for structural decision-making is described. The applicability of the approach is illustrated by an example which considers the overall checking efficiency in the building process, combined with some failure statistics and failure cost estimates. The application of the approach to specific structural members is also discussed in the paper.