Communications Failure in Hyatt Regency Disaster
Publication: Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering
Volume 115, Issue 3
Abstract
In July, 1981, two suspended walkways overlooking the lobby of the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Kansas City, Mo., collapsed, killing 114 people and injuring 200 more. The immediate cause of the accident was a structural design flaw in the box beam‐hanger rod connections supporting the walkways. However, a more fundamental cause was a series of communication failures between the structural engineer and the steel fabricator. Confusion developed about whether the fabricator was to assume the professional role of “designer” or “developer,” design drawings failed to clearly communicate important design information to indicate that the box beam‐hanger rod connection shown was an “incomplete” design, and ambiguities in communicating intent were never resolved—all contributing to the ultimate tragedy. Specific areas of miscommunication that led to the inadequate box beam‐hanger rod design that made the structural collapse inevitable are examined. The purpose is twofold: (1) To provide some insight into the complexities of communication systems in the construction industry; and (2) to encourage engineers to develop more effective foresight as a result of the communication lessons that emerge in hindsight from the tragedy.
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References
1.
Birchfield, J. R. (1982). “Welding clear in collapse of Hyatt walkways.” Welding Design and Fabrication, June, 64–67.
2.
Deutsch, J. B. (1985). “Report of the Administrative Hearing Commission, State of Missouri.” Case No. AR‐84‐0239, Missouri Board for Arch., Professional Engrs., and Land Surveyors vs. Daniel M. Duncan, Jack D. Gillum, and G.C.E. Int., Inc., Jefferson City, Mo.
3.
Hensey, M. (1987). “Communication lessons from structural problems.” J. Mgmt. Engrg., 3(1), 20–27.
4.
“Hyatt walkway design switched.” (1981). Engrg. News Record, July 30, 11–13.
5.
Pfrang, E. O., and Marshall, R. M. (1982). “Collapse of the Kansas City Hyatt Regency walkways.” Civ. Engrg., July, 65–68.
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Walter, C. R. (1987). “Liability and quality control impacts of defining scope of service.” J. Prof. Issues Engrg., ASCE, 113(3), 211–215.
Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering
Volume 115 • Issue 3 • July 1989
Pages: 273 - 288
Copyright
Copyright © 1989 ASCE.
History
Published online: Jul 1, 1989
Published in print: Jul 1989
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