New Swiss technical specification SIA 2057 for glass structures and its post failure limit state concept

Abstract

Until recently, designing and constructing with glass in Switzerland was not performed on a uniformly regulated basis due to the lack of a national standard for glass. Therefore, foreign regulations and codes were typically applied. However, this practice repeatedly caused problems. In August 2021, the Technical Specification SIA 2057 Glass Structures has been published to close this codification gap and to create a uniform design basis for the Swiss glass industry. A wide range of glass applications is covered, taking into account the latest findings from practice and science, such as use of shear transfer in laminated glass. The SIA 2057 follows the well-proven SIA principles of regulating only where necessary. Thus, a flexible application of the code is made possible, and innovation is encouraged. In addition to simple design methods, engineers are free to pursue alternative and innovative paths in glass design. The present article provides an overview of the SIA 2057 with focus on laminated safety glass design and post fracture limit state verification.