Method Statement- Structural Assessments of Buildings

Structural Assessments of buildings are done to ensure a satisfactory standard of safety is achieved. Typically this
involves taking in to account the conditions of the existing structure, the manner in which it was built, the design
intent and importantly the current or proposed reuse of the structure.

All buildings have a lifespan, and even if designed and built to the highest quality standards, must be maintained
and checked at intervals to ensure that they are still fit for purpose and to lengthen their lifespan.

A structural assessment usually takes into account a combination of global and local considerations. The overall
condition of the building is usually assessed first: are there visible signs of decay or distress? How is the overall
structure behaving in response to everyday use and in response to extreme events? Is its behaviour as was
intended by the designer? However, depending on the circumstance, behaviour in a specific part of the structure
may be critical for the safety of the building. For example, is settlement of part of the foundations causing distress
to the building? Is corrosion of a critical steel structural member creating a disproportionate risk?

A structural assessment usually includes a risk assessment, which assists in prioritizing actions which need to be
taken.

Audit Process based on the Institution of Structural Engineers UK

Guidance on the Assesment of Existing Structures

We would suggest the following three step process to evaluate the existing safety levels in the buildings that
have to be assessed. This process will identify problem areas and will suggest measures to rectify the
deficiencies. These rectification measures should then be implemented and be reviewed by a competent person
/ organization. The implementation and control procedures can be supervised by Ramboll; however, this is
currently not part of the proposed risk assessment process.

STEP 1: Desktop assessment of all available building information.

The purpose of the desktop assessment is to identify the basis for the existing design by examining built
drawings, design loads, building use, design standards, ground conditions and local climatic conditions including
the risk of extreme weather events. Existing'as built' documentation, particularly drawings are not a substitute
for a site visit, but can assist greatly in clarifying the issues and expediating the assessment.

STEP 2: Site Visit, Preliminary Calculations, Testing and Analysis

A site visit informs an understanding of the quality and condition of the construction, allows identification of any
visible distress or deterioration of the fabric, deviations from the design intent and the impact of damage as a result
of accidents or extreme events. In the first instance a 'walk through', typically recording using photographs and
notes establishes potential risks. Any queries can then be followed up where required by material testing, and both
intrusive and non-intrusive investigations to establish the condition of concealed elements. Depending on the
structural issue being assessed, calculations of varying complexity are undertaken to quantify the risk of failure.
Geometric surveys of the structure either manually or electronically may be required if the accurate alignment of
structural elements is considered critical- often taking a few spot dimensions on site is sufficient.

STEP 3: Assessment Report

Evaluation of information gathered in the desktop study and site visit and any supplementary tests;
Development of a risk matrix; description of identified deficiencies and rectification measures; prioritization /
categorization of required measures into immediate, short term and medium term actions;

Preparation of a report summarizing the findings, the required actions and evaluating the safety level of the
building and its occupants.