Abstract: Diverse risk events and risk possibilities are involved in the design, construction and maintenance of highway cut slopes because slope risk and elements at risk are varying during these period. It is therefore necessary to conduct differentiated risk assessment and life cycle risk control. In this paper, a technical framework is proposed for life-cycle risk analysis, assessment and management of highway cut slopes based on a modified Hall three-dimensional morphology of systems engineering. Critical points of risk zonation, data collection and information cataloging during risk analysis in a typical design, construction and maintenance life cycle are clarified. Distinct definitions and analysis methods of failure probability in the process of hazard analysis are subsequently elucidated. Meanwhile, the definitions and measures to recognize hazard-affected targets and to evaluate their damage and space-time probability as well as vulnerability and other essential indices are determined in the process of hazard consequence analysis. The applicable methods for qualitative and quantitative risk estimation in different stages of slope engineering are also revealed. Technical procedures and key implementation points in each aspect such as slope risk assessment and benefits evaluation, comparison-and- selection and planning of solutions and countermeasures for risk regulation, monitoring, verification and modification are further discussed, respectively. Principles of determination of risk tolerance standard, ideas to enhance the accuracy and reliability of risk assessment are finally proposed. Research findings of this paper preliminarily standardized the procedures and technical program for risk assessment and management of highway cut slopes during their life cycles. It is hoped that this paper will bring forth new ideas and gradually develop and perfect the framework in practice.

Key words: highway, cut slope, risk assessment, risk management, life cycle