How Do Metal Structures Meet Safety Standards in Major Projects?

Metal structures are a fundamental component of major projects, including commercial buildings, bridges, factories, and industrial facilities. These structures are known for their ability to withstand heavy loads, their high resistance to environmental factors, and their faster installation compared to traditional concrete. However, ensuring safety standards in the design and implementation of metal structures is crucial to guaranteeing the longevity of projects and the safety of users and workers. In this article, we will explore how metal structures meet the highest safety standards in major projects and the technologies and regulations that ensure their reliability and quality.

1. Selecting the Right Materials According to Global Standards

The quality of metal structures depends on the type of materials used in their fabrication. These materials must comply with international standards such as ISO, ASTM, and EN to ensure durability and sustainability. Key factors considered when selecting metal materials include:

• Tensile and compressive strength to ensure the structures can bear heavy loads.
• Corrosion resistance, especially in humid or industrial environments.
• Weldability and formability to ensure precise and efficient construction.
• Strength-to-weight ratio to select materials that provide maximum strength with minimal weight.

2. Design According to Building Codes and Safety Requirements

Metal structures are designed according to local and international building codes that define the necessary requirements to ensure safety and sustainability. Some of the most important codes include:

• Saudi Building Code (SBC), which mandates the use of materials and technologies suitable for the region’s climate to ensure resistance to loads and environmental conditions.
• American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Code, which specializes in metal structure design and load resistance analysis.
• European Standard EN 1993, which sets strict regulations for steel structures used in major projects.

These codes are based on detailed engineering studies that specify how to distribute loads, seismic-resistant design standards, and methods to protect structures from fire and corrosion.

3. Corrosion and Environmental Protection Systems

Corrosion resistance is one of the most critical aspects of safety in metal structures, as corrosion can lead to structural integrity loss over time. Key solutions used to protect metal structures from corrosion include:

• Hot-dip galvanization, where metal structures are coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rust.
• Weather-resistant coatings that prevent direct exposure to moisture and water.
• Using corrosion-resistant alloys, such as stainless steel, which has a high ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

4. Safe Welding and Connection Techniques

Welding and fastening methods significantly impact the strength and safety of metal structures. The AWS D1.1 standard is followed in welding to ensure high-quality connections between structural components. Advanced welding techniques include:

• Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) to create strong joints.
• Utilizing robotic welding systems for higher precision and reduced human error.
• Non-destructive testing (NDT) to inspect welds and detect invisible defects.

5. Resistance to Heavy Loads and Natural Disasters

Metal structures must be designed to withstand high loads and natural disasters such as strong winds and earthquakes. Techniques used to achieve this include:

• Dynamic stabilization systems, such as seismic dampers, which absorb vibrations and enhance structural stability.
• Balanced load distribution design to prevent unexpected bending or deformations.
• Using high-strength steel in earthquake-prone areas to absorb shocks without structural failure.

6. Fire Protection for Metal Structures

Although steel does not burn, exposure to high temperatures from fires can cause the metal to lose its structural strength, potentially leading to building collapse. Several strategies are employed for fire protection, including:

• Applying fire-resistant coatings, such as intumescent coatings, which expand when exposed to heat and form an insulating barrier.
• Using fire-resistant panels to cover metal structures and minimize heat exposure.
• Designing wide and accessible emergency exits to ensure quick evacuation in case of emergencies.

7. Regular Inspections and Preventive Maintenance for Safety

Safety is not limited to the design and construction phase but must continue throughout the project’s lifespan through regular inspections and preventive maintenance. Maintenance activities include:

• Routine visual inspections to detect cracks or corrosion in the structure.
• Engineering tests, such as vibration and load tests, to ensure structural stability.
• Immediate repair of damaged components to prevent large-scale structural failures.

8. The Role of Modern Technology in Enhancing Safety Standards

Modern technologies have significantly improved the quality and safety of metal structures. Key advancements include:

• Building Information Modeling (BIM) to simulate structural performance before implementation, helping to detect errors early.
• Smart sensors (IoT sensors) that enable real-time monitoring of structural performance and detect any unusual changes in strength or vibrations.
• 3D printing technology to create more precise and efficient metal components.

Metal structures are a fundamental element in major projects, and safety standards play a critical role in ensuring their durability and efficiency. By selecting high-quality materials, adhering to building codes, and applying corrosion and fire protection systems, metal structures can achieve high levels of safety and durability. With the advancement of technology, design and construction processes have become more efficient, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for developing a strong and sustainable infrastructure.