ABSTRACT
In the decade from 1978 to 1987, the US experienced an unprecedented rash of catastrophic structural collapses, many resulting in tragic loss of life. This paper reviews nine of these, identifying similarities and differences in their causes, and exploring possible reasons why such a concentration of failures occurred then. Furthermore, these failures caused professional and public outcry, motivating continuous efforts and progress to improve public safety. Our diligence in learning from failures and keeping public safety at the forefront of our work must be never ending. The CROSS system plays a vital role in this pursuit. By sustained learning from failures of all consequence, as well as incidents, and safety concerns, we can avert catastrophes.
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Forensic Engineering 2022
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Published online: Nov 2, 2022
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