Page 9 - SIM Guide to annual assessment_v2.0_Dec 2021

Concrete - General

BASIS FOR THE ASSESSMENT

▪ Assessment method based in:

o Existing information (drawings, building codes) +
o Visual inspection + non destructive test (Schmidt hammer) +

o Measurements (deformations, rebar thickness,..)

Note. Schmidt hammer must be used by qualified professional and its use is normally
considered as part of Expert assessment.

FOCUS POINT OF THE ASSESSMENT

▪ Foundation or structure settlement, deflection, movement or vibration.
▪ Parts of structures or members incorrectly erected.
▪ Poor concrete quality, spalling, exposed reinforcing bars.

▪ Loose connections between members, or displaced connections.
▪ Damage caused by impacts on structural members.
▪ Any notable structural weakness resulting from missing or damaged parts

or advanced corrosion.
▪ Absence of, collapsed, missing or removed structural members.

▪ Wear caused by abrasion.
▪ Loss of cross section of concrete parts due to wear, abrasion or concrete
carbonation.
▪ Cracks in concrete or in its joints.
▪ Infiltration of water, oil or chemicals, excess of moisture in concrete.

▪ Excessive vibration, impact loading, duty cycle or movement during
equipment operation.

REMARKS

If design safety factor is not available, then consider:

o Load safety factor of the concrete is approximately 25-40%
o Safety factor of the reinforcement steel = 15%

For critical structural elements, i.e. members which are essential for the
stability of a structure, and their connections, it is recommended to make
measurements (ex. member deformation, reinforcement bars thickness) where
possible or needed, in addition to visual observations.

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