Reliability-based condition assessment and LRFD for existing structures

Safety and serviceability requirements for limit states design in North America have been developed and implemented in codes of practice during the past 20 years. The load and resistance criteria in limit states design are based on probabilistic methods. Statistical data on loads and on strengths are integrated by the reliability analysis to yield criteria that are consistent with a prescribed measure of reliability. The focus of code work to date has been on criteria for design of new buildings. However, professional practice frequently involves evaluation of existing structures. Research to support the development and implementation of probability-based condition assessment procedures for existing buildings is in progress. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.