Building Progressive Collapse Webinar

An Introduction to Building Progressive Collapse online PDH webinar is a part of our group of on-demand online webinars. This webinar introduces the alternative path approach to prevent progressive collapse of buildings subjected to explosive loading.

The Alternate Path (AP) method is used in two situations: 1) for Option 1 of Risk Category II and for Risk Category  IV, when a vertical structural element cannot provide the required tie strength, the designer may use the AP method to determine if the structure can bridge over the deficient element after it has been notionally removed, and 2) for Risk Category II Option 2, Risk Category III, and  Risk Category  IV, the AP method must be applied for the removal of specific vertical load-bearing elements which are prescribed. This method follows the general LRFD philosophy by employing a modified version of the ASCE 7 load factor combination for extraordinary events and resistance factors to define design strengths. Three analysis procedures are employed: Linear Static (LSP), Nonlinear Static (NSP) and Nonlinear Dynamic (NDP). These procedures follow the general approach in ASCE 41 with modifications to accommodate the particular issues associated with progressive collapse.

This webinar is intended for civil and structural engineers interested in the alternate path approach to design of buildings to prevent collapse when subjected to catastrophic loads such as those caused by explosive detonations and similar events.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this webinar, you will be able to:

• Apply the alternative path method when assessing progressive collapse
• Classify structural elements as primary or secondary
• Explain the difference between the force- and deformation-controlled actions
• Apply the procedure of removing the load-bearing elements for the AP procedure
• Apply linear static procedure
• Apply non-linear static procedure
• Apply nonlinear-dynamic procedure