Robustness of Structures: Lessons from Failures

Robustness is considered as an attribute of a structural system that relates to its ability to fulfil its function in the face of adverse events. It is difficult to quantify robustness. The focus of COST action TU0601 has been on developing a framework to quantify robustness and on identifying methods and strategies to improve the robustness of structures. The objectives of this paper are to present an analysis of different failures from the point of view of robustness and to identify measures that directly or indirectly contribute to robustness. It is concluded that structural form plays a major role but it is essential to ensure good management processes for design and construction.