Consultancy Services
Grandstand and Stadium analysis for crowd and
wind loading
 Virtually
all stadiums, and in particular newer designs, are susceptible to
excessive vibrations due to crowd behaviour. These vibrations are in
some cases harmless, in others can cause discomfort, in major
situations can cause crowd panic and in extreme situations can have
the potential to cause catastrophic failure of the stadium. The
effects are worsened by crowds responding in unison to music and
Mexican waves etc. Stadium use may also be an important factor.
Alternative uses of these stadiums
include concerts, especially rock music concerts, where a large
portion of the crowd will participate in synchronised movement
co-ordinated by the audible and visual stimulation being provided. The
problems associated with excessive vibrations are further heightened
by the current construction trends which favour stronger and lighter
materials. The phenomenon has only recently been recognised and can
apply to both old and newly designed stadiums. In the United Kingdom
only the most recent British Standards and Guides to Crowd Safety have
addressed the effect of synchronised movement of crowds and the
associated dynamic loads.
LUSAS consultancy services is able to
carry out detailed analysis of stadiums and integrate with testing
programs in conjunction with organisations such as the Building
Research Establishment. In this way unforeseen problems can be
recognised in advance of a potential catastrophe and remedial action
taken.
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Consultancy Information
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