This book originates from the NATO Advanced Study Institute on Synthesis and Analysis Methods for Safety and Reliability Studies held at Sogesta Conference Centre, Urbino, Italy, 3-14 July 1978. The Institute, co-directed by Prof. E.J. Henley and Dr. G. Volta, was attended by 67 persons from twelve countries. The focus of the Institute was on theoretical and applied aspects of reliability and risk analysis methodologies. The Institute was composed of lectures, workshops and gu ded discussions. From the large quantity of written material that was used and produced during the Institute, a...