Investigative Services #

Structural Failure #

A structural failure may be catastrophic or an under-performance to that expected by the building authorities, community, or to that agreed with the owner. Under-performance can include immediate effects such as excessive vibration, settlement or deflection, or delayed effects such as cracking of concrete or brickwork, corrosion of steelwork or embedments in concrete with reduced strength or total collapse.

A structural failure may require demolition, remedial work such as repairs strengthening or stiffening. The costs associated costs often lead to a dispute requiring resolution through the courts or alternative dispute resolution processes.

Forensics Engineering and Failure Assessment #

Forensic engineering, being distinctly different to design engineering, is the process of determining the actual cause of failure. A through study is made of the physical evidence at the site, photographs, geotechnical investigations, test results of the construction materials concerned, design criteria, drawings and specification used in construction. With an open mind, the verifiable evidence is objectively analysed and a number of plausible failure hypothesis considered. A correct hypothesis is identified which is consistent with the evidence is substantiated establishing a theory for the failure, with qualifications as needed.

Utilising the forensic assessment the scope of remedial work is defined. The remedial work is designed, documented and executed and is often incorporated into an expert opinion used in dispute resolution proceedings.

Remedial, Rectification and Strengthening #

Zenith personnel have been involved in the design, and site inspection, of remedial and rectification work to a wide range of structures, including building components, water retaining structures, and retaining walls.

Designing remedial works for an under-performing structure requires a thorough understanding of the material properties, the real structural behaviour of the materials and structure. Remedial works often involve adding strengthening or stiffening members within the structure or augmenting the strength of existing members.

Expert Opinion #

Zenith personnel have had experience in a number of expert opinions and reviews including a major concrete lined channel, sewerage treatment plant, cool room ceiling collapse with injured personnel, retaining walls, and personnel falling from a height during construction.

An expert report may cover:

• Design or construction deficiencies as required by the Building Code of Australia, Australian Standards and general good practice.
• A clear understanding of the causes, and the supporting justification for the determination of the causes, is essential in forming an opinion on the cause of failure and hence the contributory errors or omissions by the parties.
• Documentation of the remedial works, for quantification by others.

Zenith’s reports are prepared in accordance with expert witness code of conduct. The reports are informed, succinct, and formatted in a structured and readable way understandable by both non-professionals and experts alike.