Analysis of risk factors affecting the main execution activities of roadways construction projects

Abstract

In this study, the main execution activities associated with global roadways construction projects (RCPs) were identified and categorized into five main activities of RCPs as follows: (A) Preliminary Preparations; (B) Earthworks (cut/fill); (C) Implementing of sub-base and base layers; (D) Implementing of bituminous layers and (E) Traffic safety and road furniture. A field survey was conducted, and a comprehensive practical risk checklist consisting of 39 crucial risk factors affecting RCPs activities in Egypt was introduced as a case study. The probability of occurrence and the impacts on RCPs objectives (time, cost, and quality) and the risk severity were determined while the key risk factors were highlighted. The correlations between the risk factors indices were measured, and the strongest relationship was found between time and cost severities. The weights of time and cost percentages of each activity were identified, as well as the expected percentages of time and cost overruns. Activity (B) had the highest percentages of execution time and associated cost among the whole activities, i.e., 31% for time and 29% for cost. While the average overall time and cost overruns were found (at 15–20) % and (10–15) %, respectively. The effect on the quality of each activity and the overall effect on the project’s final quality were also evaluated. The results indicated a high effect on the quality of activities (A), (B), and (D) and a moderate effect on activities (C) and (E). Furthermore, the influence on the overall quality of the entire project was found with a high effect.