Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Assess and monitor structural stability

Control Measure Knowledge

An appropriate understanding of structure design and construction materials is required to assess and monitor an unstable or collapsed structure. This will include identifying:

  • Age, design and condition of the structure
  • Structural materials and construction methods

Further information in relation to building construction can be found in Fires in buildings – Building Research Establishment supplementary information

All aspects of the structure, the actions taken, and the efforts made to distribute applied loads should be considered. An assessment of the unstable or collapsed structure should be made to determine the hazard area and, because of risks such as secondary collapse or falling debris, it should be monitored while personnel are working within the hazard area.

An unstable or collapsed structure should be assessed at the earliest opportunity, including its potential impact on surrounding structures and infrastructure. Although the initial assessment can be carried out by first responders, it may be necessary to seek specialist advice. It may be beneficial to appoint an external safety officer to monitor the stability of the structure.

Specialist advice and monitoring may be available from local authority building control teams, structural engineers or urban search and rescue (USAR) tactical advisers.

Signs of collapse may include:

  • Cracks in walls
  • Sagging floors or floors deflecting from wall
  • Displaced columns
  • Dropping arches
  • Bulging walls
  • Buckling columns or beams
  • Unusual noises coming from the structure

The minimum number of personnel should be committed to the hazard area, especially if assessment or monitoring indicates the potential for further collapse. Emergency arrangements should also be in place, which can be initiated if required.

If safe routes are identified they should be marked, and exposed elements or other hazards should be marked or clear.

Strategic Actions

Tactical Actions