Risk assessment of precast reinforced concrete buildings against blast loads: Case study

Abstract eng:
This case study aims to assess the risk level of precast buildings existing in the two metro cities, Riyadh and Jeddah, of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to blast threats. For this purpose, a detailed site survey of two buildings, one office building existing in the city of Riyadh and other a precast hospital building located in the city of Jeddah, was carried out. Surveyed data was analyzed to decide levels of asset visibility, building significance, critical element accessibility, critical element vulnerability, and structural system characteristics. Information of these factors were then employed to assess the vulnerability level of the buildings. The data was further used to assess the amount of tangible (e.g. personnel or facilities) or intangible (e.g. processes) asset losses in the event of blast. In assessing the consequences of failure, damage of similar buildings due to blast loads was also given the due consideration. Having determined the vulnerability and consequences of failure, the risk of the selected buildings was assessed. The results of the study show that the hospital building existing in Jeddah has higher risk to blast threats than the office building located in Riyadh.

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