Not all structural risk is obvious!

61 Molesworth Street, Wellington

We can all see the result of earthquake damage in this picture!  Clearly, the building at 61 Molesworth Street was damaged beyond repair in the recent earthquake and has been demolished.  However what is often less obvious and more concerning from a safety perspective are the hidden dangers in the structures within which we work, eat, play and sleep.

An example of one such building product is the Pre-cast Flooring System.   CSI is finding an alarming rate of pre-cast floors not constructed to standard.  The data collected on these floors often shows that critical reinforcing is missing!

Whilst the reinforcing is detailed on the engineer’s drawings, it has been omitted from the structure or fitted incorrectly. Drag bars, hollow-core hairpin bars, starter bars and saddle bars are often missing.  Spiral laps frequently have low cover.

These are all critical elements when concrete frames are subjected to elongation, which negatively impacts pre-cast floor systems resulting in severe underperformance in an earthquake or after-shock.

In our experience, it is well worth checking that the critical elements in Pre-cast Flooring Systems have actually been fitted.  If you’re not sure then call in an expert.  CSI can assist you with independent, accurate and non-destructive structural analysis testing of your building. Check out our scanning service online here.  Alternatively, get in touch with us direct via email or phone 0800 33 7767.

Winners of the 2016 Wellington Gold Awards in Emerging Services.