PROJECT. COLLABORATION. INNOVATION.

This project addresses a critical need in the construction industry: updating wind load standards to match the modern Irish cityscape.The current wind load standards, known as Eurocodes, are being revised, and it’s essential to ensure these new standards accurately reflect today’s building types and environmental conditions in Ireland.

The primary objective is to compare wind loading values from the existing and new Eurocodes across various building types andlocations in Ireland. This involves studying various structures, including high-rise buildings, residential homes, and industrial units, todetermine any significant differences in wind loading values.

A Research Masters student will conduct this 18-month study, guided by experts from UCD and Arup. The expected outcomes include adetailed comparison of wind loading values, and recommendations for the new code of practice.

The significance of this research lies in its potential to enhance building safety and efficiency. By ensuring accurate wind loadspecifications, the project aims to prevent over-conservative designs that waste materials and avoid under-conservative designs that could compromise safety. The findings will contribute to economic savings, environmental sustainability, andthe overall improvement of construction practices in Ireland. The results will be disseminated through reports, presentations, and aproject video, ensuring that the knowledge gained benefits industry professionals, policy makers, and the public.