Despite
the best plans of architects and designers, structural failures
or collapses do occur for various reasons - most are due to
shoddy workmanship or using materials that are not up to industry
standards, or some combination of the two.
Many buildings collapse due to natural disasters like floods, fire, and earthquakes to name a few. While natural calamities cannot be controlled, structural failures can be kept in check with a basic understanding of and usage of construction methods that are consistent with industry norms.
Building Safety Issues
With the advent of new technologies, fire accidents and structural failures can in many cases be prevented. But despite the development of sophisticated building materials and refined construction processes some buildings are still not constructed with the proper materials and/or adherence to accepted industry standards.
Common problems include: structural failure or outright collapse of a building, inadequate fire protection or adhering to fire prevention regulations, incorporating shoddy building materials that are not up to code and/or are inadequate for the structural stress placed upon them and improper electrical wiring and or HVAC ventilation.
Materials and Methods
In today' age of skyscrapers and high-rises, it has become important to consider the materials and techniques the builders use. While the development of new age materials have allowed architects to work with more weight in lesser space industry standards must still be adhered to to ensure the overall integrity of the structure being built.
Many of today's tall skyscrapers ensure rigidity with the help of concrete cores to keep the building from swaying to and fro. While many buildings can sway safely without any damage being caused to the building or its occupants, this can prove hazardous at the time of an earthquake, as the significant stress can still take the building down. After September 11, 2005, improved building practices and design procedures were developed and utilized to control the likelihood of progressive collapses.
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