New Publication - Serviceability Design Criteria for Low Rise Steel Building Systems

Serviceability is an important aspect of design. It is only eclipsed by design for strength which is paramount. Design for serviceability addresses the performance of the structure with respect to its use, its interaction with non-structural elements and maintenance.

According to NBC 2010, Part 4, Structural Design, Sentence 4.1.3.4. (1), a building and its structural components shall be checked for serviceability limit states (SLS) as defined in Clause 4.1.3.1. (1)(a) under the effect of service loads for serviceability criteria specified or recommended in Articles 4.1.3.5. and 4.1.3.6. and in the standards listed in Section 4.3.

The National Building Code lists four areas of consideration when sizing structural members for serviceability limit states (SLS):

1. the intended use of the building or member;
2. limiting damage to non-structural members made of materials whose physical properties are known at the time of design;
3. limiting damage to the structure itself;
4. creep, shrinkage, temperature changes and pre-stress.

Download our CSSBI B15B-15 Serviceability Design Criteria for Low Rise Steel Building Systems to learn more about how to design for serviceability using a steel building system.