Investigators from the federal government have been working hard to find the cause of the tragic fall at the Champlain Towers, in Surfside, FL. This disaster claimed 98 lives in 2021. The investigation focuses on the failures of the pool deck two years after the incident.
NIST says pool deck may have contributed to tower collapse in Surfside
The National Institute of Standards and Technology, the federal agency that is leading the investigation has determined that the concrete columns and pool area of the condo were improperly built and did not meet building codes. The preliminary findings were the result of thousands hours of research over the last two years. This included interviews of witnesses and examination of design documentation.
Glenn Bell is one of the leading investigators. He has stated that evidence examined by NIST makes it clear that both the support columns and pool deck of the 12-story condominium tower were not built properly. Bell said, “The structure at Champlain Towers South did not meet the codes or standards that were applicable during the original construction. It also does not meet the current codes and standard.”
The federal team conducted a further investigation and found that the cast concrete had serious problems. The concrete was permeable due to the method of casting, which led to corrosion in the steel reinforcement. This compromises the strength of the deck. The rebar in the concrete slabs was also improperly placed, resulting in sections of the pool deck that were weaker than necessary. Over the 40-year lifespan of the building, heavy items such as large planters with palm trees were placed on the weakest sections of the pool deck. This accelerated its degradation and increased stress.
Jack Moehle, an investigator at NIST’s headquarters, presented the leading hypotheses of his team, indicating that the collapse was likely caused by the failure the pool deck. He noted that the pool deck had been lightly reinforced and displayed design flaws and construction mistakes. Moehle said, “It showed signs of deterioration and was under heavy stress.” It’s very likely that the failure could have been caused by a failure of punching. Concrete structural engineers call this failure “punching shear.”
The final report of the NIST team is expected in two years. However, recent developments highlight the need to reevaluate construction practices and ensure adherence to building standards and codes. Last year, the families of those who tragically died and the survivors of the collapse settled the case for $1 billion. They acknowledged the severity of the tragedy and needed compensation.
A developer has also submitted plans to Surfside, for a 12-story condo tower at the beachfront on the former site of the Champlain Towers. It is important that, as the investigation continues, the lessons from this tragedy are used to guide future construction and give priority to the safety of structures including pool decks. This will help prevent similar incidents. Pool Magazine will follow the investigation closely and update our readers on the latest developments. We want to emphasize the importance of maintaining the highest standards in the pool industry.
Featured photo credit: CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP
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