Project Profile
Multi-Hazard Design for Emergency Communication Center
Learn how we managed advanced analysis, structural design and construction phase services for a new 30,000-square foot emergency communications center.
Project Objectives
#1
Determine all applicable design requirements related to structural, seismic, extreme wind and AT/FP design
#2
Provide multiple schematic design options with different structural systems to allow the full design team (including the owner) to evaluate the implications of the enhanced criteria
#3
Develop the initial AT/FP design criteria document covering issues related to structure's physical security, including windows, facade and physical security barriers
#4
Prepare final design documents incorporating elevated seismic, extreme wind and AT/FP design element into a conventional structural design
Project Overview
A new emergency communications center needed to achieve the higher performance objectives and building occupancy criteria for designated emergency response centers and preparedness facilities.
The client engaged ABS Group to develop design criteria and schematic and final designs for the building's elevated seismic structural and non-structural design loads to meet ASCE 7-05 requirements. In addition, the building owner requested that the building be designed for an extreme wind event equivalent to a F3/F4 tornado (180 mph wind loads).
To further reinforce the facility's safety and security, the building design needed to comply with the Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) design requirements put forth by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Client Needs
- High classification criteria for emergency response centers
- Elevated seismic and extreme wind requirements
- Compliance with AT/FP standards
Our Solution
Programming and Schematic Desing Phase
ABS Group's Extreme Loads and Structural Risk (ELSR) division developed and implemented both a vertical and lateral load-resisting system design to meet the client-specified requirements for 2009 IBC, ASCE 7-05, ICC 500 and UFC 4-010-01.
Our engineers conducted a complete evaluation and development of the structural, seismic, extreme wind and AT/FP design requirements. The extreme wind criteria was developed for 180 mph tornadic wind loads in conjunction with the ICC 500 criteria. The AT/FP design followed the Department of Defense UFC 4-010-01.
Design Phase
We carried out the complete analysis and design of the vertical and lateral load-resisting systems for the conventional code loads and the extreme loads developed in the programming and schematic phase. Design for the extreme loads was extended to the architectural and non-structural elements including all exterior glazing and doors. Bracing and lateral restraint of non-structural elements were designed for lateral loads reflecting the elevated seismic performance objective.
After completing the initial design, we conducted stakeholder review meetings to gather feedback and develop the final design documents.
Construction Phase
Prior to beginning construction, we reviewed structural and non-structural submittals for compliance with the project structural and extreme load requirements. Additionally, we performed field observations at the project site to provide technical assistance during the construction of the 30,000 square foot emergency communications center. This included guidance on field issues that impact the extreme wind, seismic and AT/FP performance of the building and equipment.
Value Delivered
By working closely with the owner and other project team members, ABS Group was able to develop and execute a comprehensive design solution to enable the emergency communications center to meet the elevated seismic, extreme wind and AT/FP requirements that are critical for the continued operation of this important facility.