Latest News Mon, Apr 29, 2024 7:08 AM
The Building Safety Act 2023 requires that some 12,500 higher-risk buildings (HRBs) are to be assessed over 2024 to 2029 to inform a safety case about how fire and structural safety risks are managed.
With an additional 2,000 HRBs being constructed each year, this five-year process makes for a considerable workload.
To help building assessors with this significant assignment, the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) has published new guidance Assessing higher-risk buildings under the Building Safety Act: a compendium of structural typologies.
The Act defines a HRB as a development of at least seven storeys or 18 metres high, containing at least two residential units.
This compendium details 16 common HRB typologies. The guide focuses on UK buildings constructed or adapted between 1920 and 2020, with a description, a schedule of applicable building codes at the time of construction, and possible defects and other issues to be aware of.
The guide therefore assists in assessing compliance with codes at time of construction and assessment of structural safety as required by the Act.
Patrick Hayes, IStructE’s Technical Director and author of the Compendium explains: “The Building Safety Act aims to make dutyholders manage significant fire and structural risks, particularly in combination, to prevent significant incidents happening. Our Compendium is written with these in mind.
“It’s designed for use at the initial part of a building assessment, in conjunction with other IStructE guidance and is very much a starting point for assessments carried out by competent assessors to allow important safety issues to be concentrated on.”
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is covered in the Compendium, which is especially relevant and important given the recent prevalence of RAAC-related issues reported in schools, hospitals, and other public buildings.
Patrick Hayes concludes: “While the Compendium lists the common issues, risks and problems, it must be remembered that well-designed, constructed, maintained structures are safe, and regular assessment ensures safety and guards against deterioration.”
Featured News
In today's demanding construction landscape, finding reliable partners who can...
Fixscreen Minimal sun protection fabric shields huge windows If it's complete...
BUILDING PRODUCT DIRECTORY - LATEST PRODUCTS
James Hardie fibre cement products are built to last. It's the go to façade for builders,...
With James Hardie, It’s Possible™If you're looking for a high performance, A2 fire-rated façade...
With James Hardie, It’s Possible™Moisture sensitive areas like kitchens and bathrooms are...
CONSTRUCTION VIDEOS - LATEST VIDEOS
Mira Showers is delighted to introduce the new Mira Vista HeatloopTM – an innovative and stylish...
https://www.aandslandscape.co.uk/ Find out why A&S Landscape Canopies last longer than alternatives....
A&S Landscape designed and installed a large enclosed, curved roof canopy for Hampton Gardens School...