vertical members must either be considered in the design or provided for at the

construction stage.

2.4.6 Thermal gradient

If necessary, assessment of crack widths is made by reference to Concrete

Code 2013 clause 7.2.

2.4.7 Other effects

This is a general provision concerned with other indirect effects that have to
be considered including loading changes, temperature differentials, creep,
shrinkage, etc. The above can be satisfactorily dealt with by proper design and
construction of the precast elements.

This sub-clause specifies two areas of concern namely, (a) limiting the
cracking and deformation arising from early-age thermal movement, creep,
shrinkage, etc; and (b) minimizing restraints on structural components by
providing bearings or movement joints, or if restraints are inevitable, the
design should take into consideration any significant effects that may arise.

With proper design of the precast elements and control during fabrication and
curing, possible effects due to temperature differentials, early stage creep and
shrinkage can be reduced. Concerns related to minimizing restraints on
structural components are best dealt with when specifying the joints between
the precast elements and parent substrate.

2.5 LOADINGS

2.5.1 General

The appropriate loads should be based on the B(C)R and the relevant codes of
practice. Dead load can be estimated based on the dimensions of the members
with due consideration of finishes, floor-screed, etc. Imposed loads specified
in the B(C)R are only minimum standards and actual conditions must be fully
explored when specifying the imposed load. Wind load is required to be
considered in the design of a precast member when exposure to wind
conditions in the construction stage or in service after construction is
anticipated. Recommendations on the design wind load are found by reference
to Code of Practice on Wind Effects in Hong Kong 2004.

Variations in load distribution (with time) during construction should also be

considered, e.g. variations in propping loads due to the effect of prestressing.

The CoP specifies two types of loading, namely construction loads and
notional horizontal forces. Construction loads should not be less than 1.5
kN/m2. Notional horizontal force caters for vibration reasonably anticipated
during construction and should not be less than 1.5% of the characteristic dead
load. When in doubt, construction loads and notional horizontal forces should

14