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Free course

Tay Bridge disaster

Free statement of participation on completion
Tay Bridge disaster

The sudden collapse of Scotland's Tay Bridge in 1879 killed more than 70 rail passengers and shocked the population. An extensive inquiry was carried out, including numerous witnesses, experts and reports. Were the high winds that night to blame, or were poor design or mechanical failure at fault? This free course re-examines some of the original evidence from the Tay Bridge disaster.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

  • critically evaluate disasters and their causes, especially from mechanical or material failures
  • demonstrate the importance of systematic and rigorous analysis of disasters, so that future failures can be avoided or prevented.

First Published: 10/08/2012

Updated: 06/05/2016

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