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CROSS Safety Report

Concerns over structural design submissions

Report ID: 14 Published: 1 November 2005 Region: CROSS-UK

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Overview

Concern was expressed about the standard of structural design submissions presented to local authorities.

Key Learning Outcomes

For civil and structural design engineers:

  • The effect of torsion on beams due to eccentric loads requires close attention and detailing 

Full Report

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The Full Report below has been submitted to CROSS and describes the reporter’s experience. The text has been edited for clarity and to ensure anonymity and confidentiality by removing any identifiable details. If you would like to know more about our secure reporting process or submit a report yourself, please visit the reporting to CROSS-UK page.

 

Concern was expressed from one source about the standard of structural design submissions presented to local authorities. Three issues were highlighted: timber members and their connections, the design of masonry under lateral loading, and torsional restraint on steel beams. Indeed torsional effects are thought by the reporter to be often ignored and this can lead to distortions and undue deflection.

Expert Panel Comments

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Expert Panels comment on the reports we receive. They use their experience to help you understand what can be learned from the reports. If you would like to know more, please visit the CROSS-UK Expert Panels page.

Even on simple elements such as cladding, torsion can cause failure and co-operation between designers and fabricators is important.

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