Structural Evaluation of a Low-Rise Steel Building in Jakarta

Abstract

Due to increasing awareness of human safety, Indonesia has mandated that all operational buildings obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. Consequently, existing structures must undergo a structural assessment before being granted this certificate. Evaluating older buildings poses significant challenges, especially when comprehensive records are lacking, and budgets do not allow for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). This study presents the structural evaluation findings of a three-story steel building in Jakarta. Using visual inspections, field measurements, and limited available data, an analytical model representing the building's actual condition was developed. The evaluation followed three procedures: Tier 1 and Tier 2 evaluations of ASCE 41-17 and proportional seismic forces. These procedures aimed to gauge the structural integrity and identify areas vulnerable to failure during a severe earthquake. The assessment focused on the ductility of the seismic force-resisting system components and the strength of beam-column joint connections against specified acceptance criteria. The findings highlight critical insights into the building’s structural performance, informing decisions on necessary measures such as structural reinforcement, occupancy restrictions, or demolition. This study underscores the importance of thorough structural assessments in ensuring the safety and resilience of older buildings in earthquake-prone regions.