Meeting disproportionate collapse requirements

New guide from The Concrete Centre explains 'How to design concrete buildings to satisfy the disproportionate collapse requirements'.

The collapse of Ronan Point in 1968 was a seminal event that resulted in the fundamental changes to the design philosophy of building structures.

In particular, it led to the birth of the concept of disproportionate collapse and subsequent additional building regulations.

Following the Ronan Point collapse, the Building Regulations were amended so that any building of five storeys or more had to satisfy additional special requirements for increased robustness.

In 2004, the regulations were further amended to bring all buildings within the scope of the disproportionate collapse requirements which state that: "the building shall be constructed so that in the event of an accident the building will not suffer collapse to an extent disproportionate to the cause".

The new guide sets how to meet the requirements as they relate to buildings constructed with concrete.

In particular, it outlines the typical details used for generic concrete element and building types including in-situ reinforced concrete, post-tensioned concrete, precast framed structures, hybrid concrete structures and crosswall construction.

Also included are steel-framed structures and load-bearing masonry structures that support precast concrete floors.

"The guide aims to provide quick and useful reference for the engineer", explained Owen Brooker, senior structural engineer at The Concrete Centre.

"It highlights the statutory requirements and how to meet them".

For further information on 'How to design concrete buildings to satisfy the disproportionate collapse requirements' and how to obtain a copy visit the website.

Back to top