Blast Protection of Buildings — Structural Systems, Protected Spaces, Building Envelope, and Glazing

Abstract

This presentation will discuss the work to date of the Task Committees on Structural Systems, Protected Spaces and Exterior Envelopes. This portion of the Standard will address the features of structural analysis and design that may be used to improve the performance of structures in response to blast loading. It will also include the design of the exterior envelope, which is typically the weakest part of a building as well as the costliest to construct because of its large area. Chapter 5 will address primary and secondary fragmentation and methods for predicting the hazards of airborne fragments. Chapter 6 will address issues such as the protection of new versus existing construction; the relationship between aseismic design and blast resistance; analytical methods and modeling; characteristics of blast loads; and the prevention of progressive collapse. Chapter 7 will address issues related to protected spaces and the hardening of interior partitions, walls, slabs, stairwell enclosures and plenums. The different levels of protection will be related to performance based design criteria. Chapter 8 will define the design intent for the building envelope in terms of the hazard-based and resistance-based approaches. Performance and construction requirements for new construction and retrofits will be presented for glazing systems and doors; exterior wall systems, such as concrete, masonry and steel wall construction; roof systems; debris mitigating systems, and venting.