SERVICEABILITY GUIDELINES FOR STEEL STRUCTURES

Serviceability limit states in steel construction are discussed including deformation-related limit-states, motion-related limit-states, and the appraisal of current serviceability guidelines. Criteria for static deformation-related limit states (serviceability, probability-based loading criteria) are reviewed, as well as criteria for motion-related limit states (analysis of floor vibrations, building vibrations due to wind, criteria for floor vibration). Serviceability checks for deformation or damage-related limit states can be developed using load criteria that resemble the criteria used in LRFD (load and resistance factor design) for checking ultimate limit states. Floor systems and building frames can be checked for susceptibility to motion using criteria that reflect the general dynamic characteristics of the structural system. Serviceability guidelines ought to be flexible and adaptable to different occupancies and performance requirements.