A practical application of probabilistic slope stability analysis methods

This paper describes an application of probabilistic failure analysis methods to a slope stability failure and directly contrasts the analytical approach with the conventional point estimate factor of safety analysis. A slope stability survey of a tailing disposal dam and the process of evaluation of remedial action using the General Slope Stability program STABL is described. It is shown how an improvement in stability can be quantitatively evaluated in terms of an actual reduction in risk using the program’s probabilistic approach. General comments based on the Authors’ experience in using the program are offered.