Large panel system dwelling blocks – updating structural assessment guidance Available to Purchase

This paper deals with an aspect of the enduring implications of the collapse in 1968 of part of Ronan Point, a large panel system (LPS) built dwelling block. While it is commonly recognised that this incident resulted in the introduction of ‘disproportionate collapse’ as a structural concept and changes to the UK Building Regulations in force at the time, the issues relating to the ongoing management of the remaining population of existing LPS dwelling blocks are perhaps less widely appreciated. There are many high-rise LPS dwelling blocks in the UK that are expected to remain in service for an extended period. Block owners have an ongoing responsibility for their safety, which requires their periodic inspection and structural assessment. The guidance historically used for the assessment of such blocks has become outdated by developments since its publication. This paper summarises a programme of work to develop updated technical evaluation criteria and associated guidance for undertaking structural assessment of LPS dwelling blocks for accidental loads. The programme followed the classic forensic engineering process of learning from an unfortunate event to improve engineering practice in the future.