How can you ensure effective lateral force resistance in structural design?

1 Understand the sources and effects of lateral forces

The first step to ensure effective lateral force resistance is to identify and analyze the sources and effects of lateral forces on your structure. Depending on the location, geometry, and function of your structure, you may face different types and magnitudes of lateral forces. For example, a tall building in a seismic zone will experience more lateral forces from earthquakes than a low-rise building in a stable area. Similarly, a structure with a large surface area exposed to wind will experience more lateral forces from wind than a compact structure. You need to understand the characteristics and behavior of these lateral forces, such as their direction, duration, frequency, and intensity, and how they affect your structure's stability, strength, stiffness, and deformation.

3 Apply the relevant codes and standards

The third step to ensure effective lateral force resistance is to apply the relevant codes and standards for your structure. Codes and standards are sets of rules and guidelines that regulate the design, construction, and maintenance of structures. They are based on scientific research, engineering practice, and public safety. They specify the minimum requirements and performance levels for different aspects of structural design, such as load combinations, load factors, material properties, design methods, analysis procedures, and detailing. You need to follow the codes and standards that apply to your structure's location, type, and function, as well as the lateral forces that it may encounter. For example, if you are designing a structure in the United States, you may need to follow the International Building Code (IBC), the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 7, and the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) 360.

4 Perform the necessary analysis and design

The fourth step to ensure effective lateral force resistance is to perform the necessary analysis and design for your structure. Analysis is the process of calculating the internal forces and displacements in the structural elements due to the applied loads. Design is the process of selecting the dimensions and reinforcement of the structural elements based on the analysis results and the design criteria. You need to perform the analysis and design using the appropriate methods and tools, such as linear or nonlinear, static or dynamic, manual or computer-aided, depending on the complexity and accuracy of your structure and the lateral forces. You also need to check the serviceability and safety of your structure, such as the deflection, vibration, cracking, and failure modes, and make the necessary adjustments or improvements.

5 Consider the construction and maintenance aspects

The fifth step to ensure effective lateral force resistance is to consider the construction and maintenance aspects of your structure. Construction is the process of building the structure according to the design drawings and specifications. Maintenance is the process of inspecting, repairing, and upgrading the structure throughout its service life. You need to consider how the construction and maintenance aspects affect the lateral force resistance of your structure, and vice versa. For example, you need to ensure that the construction methods and equipment are compatible with the structural system and materials, and that the construction quality and supervision are adequate. You also need to ensure that the maintenance plans and procedures are feasible and effective, and that the maintenance costs and frequency are reasonable.

6 Review and update your design periodically

The sixth step to ensure effective lateral force resistance is to review and update your design periodically. Review is the process of evaluating and verifying the adequacy and performance of your design. Update is the process of modifying and improving your design based on the review results and the changing conditions. You need to review and update your design periodically to ensure that it meets the current and future needs and expectations of your structure and the lateral forces. For example, you need to review your design after each major event, such as a windstorm or an earthquake, and check for any damage or deterioration. You also need to update your design if there are any changes in the codes and standards, the material availability and prices, or the user requirements and preferences.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?