The dominance of natural hazards in our environment is very high. Only when natural events occur does one realize their power and consequences. The risk potential of natural hazards and their possible consequences have prompted scientific studies of torrent events and barrier structures. This paper presents a method that allows the assessment of uncertain stress forces and resisting elements. The method is based on a probabilistic approach and includes uncertain parameters regarding acting and resistance in a risk analysis. This way of modelling also enables time changes of the barrier resistance to be taken into account. Basic information on the types of torrential barriers used is given and traditional assessment methods and loads are described.