Building Failures - Failure Case Studies in Civil Engineering - page 117

Lessons Learned
This collapse highlighted the need to develop details and procedures that would
minimize the probability of progressive collapse. The best building performance is
achieved with a complete three-dimensional structural system that interconnects all
load path elements and provides stability and redundant load paths. Additionally,
structural systems should incorporate mechanical fuses that allow elements to fail
without destroying the entire system. Systems should be constructed to be strong and
ductile to absorb overloads with large deformations and maintain continuity. Lower
portions of perimeter columns should be designed to resist direct blast effects.
Further, thorough investigation and analysis of collapses is essential to minimize
unknowns and uncertainty on failure theories.
References
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FEMA (1996). The Oklahoma City Bombing. Improving building performance
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FEMA (2005). Blast-Resistance Benefits of Seismic Design- A Case Study , FEMA
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Hayes, J.R., Jr. et.al. (2005). “Can Strengthening for Earthquake Improve Blast and
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