METHODS FOR ACCOMMODATING NON-INDEPENDENT INITIATING EVENTS IN FAULT TREE ANALYSIS.

An example problem is presented demonstrating the technique for modifying the fault tree analysis method to accommodate multiple appearances of an initiating event in a fault tree. The cut-set method of solution is presented as an alternative to the fault tree method and suggested as an alternative procedure when the coupling of multiple appearances of an initiating event becomes complex. A practical case related to the electrical safety of a dc shuttle car is then presented.