The role of decision support systems in preventing structural collapse

Unexpected incidents involving complete or partial structural collapse during refurbishments carry the potential to claim several lives at once. These events can be prevented by sound judgements influenced by decision support systems. An HSE-funded research project report, Avoiding Structural Collapse in Refurbishment: Decision Support System, has generated recommendations to supplement those of the earlier study - Health and Safety in Refurbishment Involving Structural Instability and Partial Demolition, the former has reviewed current strategies adopted for avoiding structural collapse, established the end-user requirements for a decision support system in this area, developed a new refurbishment process model and developed a decision support system for context-specific guidance at all stages of the refurbishment process.
Conclusions and recommendations from the research project include:

careful and detailed consideration is necessary for partial demolitions and structural alterations that may interfere with the structural stability of the building;
there is a need to improve the decision-making process in refurbishment projects by providing information on structural safety and integrity, highlighting the key problem areas;
detailed structural appraisals should be carried out by competent structural engineers;
refurbishment projects involving partial demolition activities and/or structural alterations require the appointment of competent and qualified professionals who can ensure the integrity of the structure at all stages;
the use of a Decision Support System to prevent structural collapse can enhance safety in refurbishment projects while also facilitating collaborative working;
there is a need for a Refurbishment Process Model describing a structured sequence of activities during the refurbishment project life-cycle.