Collapse of Metal Building System during Erection

Metal building systems are a common method of providing covered, enclosed space quickly at a competitive cost. Because of the system design approach, all components of the structure interact with each other to provide the required level of structural safety. Metal building systems are most vulnerable to collapse during erection, when all components are not yet installed. It is most important at this time to ensure that all bracing called for by the building manufacturer is properly installed. This paper reports on the collapse of a metal building system consisting of a 206 ft (62.8 m) span rigid frame during erection due to inadequately installed bracing, and explains proper erection procedure with regard to lateral bracing of the rigid frames. The circumstances of the collapse are discussed and recommendations are provided.