Why this course?

Description

SBC 301 — Structural Loading (Comprehensive Technical Training)

Objective:

To provide a deep and practical understanding of structural loading as per SBC 301, covering types of loads, load combinations, and application methods for various structural systems — ensuring safe, economical, and code-compliant design for all types of buildings and infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia.

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Module 1: Introduction to SBC 301 and Structural Loading Principles

1.1 Overview and Scope of SBC 301

• Purpose and structure of SBC 301 within the Saudi Building Code framework

• How it integrates with other SBC codes (concrete, steel, seismic, fire, etc.)

• Applicability for different types of structures (residential, commercial, industrial)

1.2 Fundamental Concepts of Loads

• Definition of loads and their significance in structural design

• Categories: permanent, variable, environmental, and accidental loads

• Basic difference between service loads and factored loads

1.3 Importance of Load Consideration in Design

• Impact of accurate load assessment on safety and serviceability

• Typical failures due to incorrect load assumptions

• Relationship between structural loading and performance criteria

1.4 Key Terminologies and Code Interpretation

• Basic terms: load intensity, tributary area, influence line, load path

• Understanding code notations and terminologies used in SBC 301

• Code interpretation techniques for real projects

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Module 2: Dead Loads (Permanent Loads)

2.1 Definition and Nature of Dead Loads

• Characteristics of permanent loads

• Common examples in buildings and infrastructure

2.2 Determination of Material Weights

• Unit weights of concrete, steel, masonry, and finishes

• Adjustments for moisture and void content

• Use of tabulated code values for standard materials

2.3 Calculation of Structural and Non-Structural Dead Loads

• Estimation for slabs, beams, columns, and walls

• Inclusion of finishes, fixtures, partitions, and equipment

• Considerations for roofing and cladding systems

2.4 Practical Application of Dead Loads in Design

• Load take-off for real building examples

• Typical assumptions for design stages

• Documentation of dead load data in structural drawings

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Module 3: Live Loads (Imposed Loads)

3.1 Classification of Live Loads

• Definition and variability of imposed loads

• Categories as per occupancy (residential, commercial, assembly, etc.)

3.2 Live Load Intensities and Reductions

• Tabulated code values for different occupancies

• Conditions for load reduction based on area and support conditions

• Partial loading conditions

3.3 Special Considerations for Storage, Equipment & Assembly Areas

• Concentrated and uniform load requirements

• Load cases for heavy machinery and moving equipment

• Vehicle and parking deck loads

3.4 Design Integration and Load Application

• How live loads are applied to different structural elements

• Load transfer to supports

• Verification during load combination analysis

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Module 4: Roof Loads and Special Roof Conditions

4.1 Nature of Roof Loads

• Types: dead, live, rain, snow (where applicable), and maintenance loads

• Difference between flat and sloped roofs

4.2 Live Loads on Roofs

• Determining live load based on accessibility

• Load reduction and minimum values per SBC 301

4.3 Rainwater and Ponding Loads

• Accumulated rain load determination

• Requirements for ponding design and roof drainage considerations

4.4 Load Distribution and Design Examples

• Application of roof loads in design models

• Integration with structural framing and support systems

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Module 5: Wind Loads as per SBC 301

5.1 Understanding Wind Actions on Structures

• Nature and effect of wind pressure

• Components: velocity pressure, exposure, topography

5.2 Basic Wind Speed and Exposure Categories

• Determining design wind speed for different Saudi regions

• Exposure classification (B, C, D) and terrain effects

5.3 Pressure Coefficients and Force Application

• External and internal pressure coefficients

• Design of components and cladding under wind action

5.4 Wind Load Combination and Structural Analysis

• Directional effects

• Load combinations with dead and live loads

• Case study on wind analysis for tall buildings

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Module 6: Seismic Loads and Earthquake Considerations

6.1 Fundamentals of Seismic Design Philosophy

• Seismic design approach under SBC 301

• Relationship between ground motion and structural response

6.2 Seismic Zone Classification in Saudi Arabia

• Seismic hazard maps and regional zoning

• Determining seismic design parameters (Ss, S1)

6.3 Structural Response Factors and System Categories

• Importance factor, response modification factor (R)

• Selection of structural system as per code recommendations

6.4 Seismic Load Calculation and Application

• Equivalent lateral force procedure

• Distribution of base shear across height

• Verification of story drift and irregularities

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Module 7: Load Combinations and Design Requirements

7.1 Purpose of Load Combinations

• Ensuring safety under multiple simultaneous load effects

• Strength vs. serviceability combinations

7.2 Code-Specified Load Combinations (Ultimate Limit States)

• Dead + live + wind

• Dead + live + seismic

• Dead + roof + temperature

7.3 Serviceability Limit State Combinations

• Criteria for deflection and vibration

• Long-term load combinations

7.4 Practical Examples and Verification Procedures

• Step-by-step formation of combinations

• Examples for beams, columns, and foundations

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Module 8: Soil, Foundation, and Settlement Loads

8.1 Foundation Load Transmission Concepts

• Role of structural loading in foundation design

• Types of foundation loads (axial, moment, shear)

8.2 Soil Bearing Pressure and SBC 301 Requirements

• Allowable soil bearing capacity

• Load distribution and settlement control

8.3 Uplift, Sliding, and Overturning Stability

• Load cases for retaining structures, tanks, and basements

• Methods to verify stability under various load actions

8.4 Load Transfer from Superstructure to Substructure

• Typical load path in framed and load-bearing systems

• Load estimation at footing level

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Module 9: Special Loads — Temperature, Impact, and Miscellaneous

9.1 Temperature and Shrinkage Loads

• Thermal expansion and contraction effects

• Temperature differentials in large structures

9.2 Impact and Vibration Loads

• Dynamic effects of moving equipment, cranes, or vehicles

• Load allowances for industrial and transport structures

9.3 Construction and Erection Loads

• Temporary loading during construction stages

• Scaffolding, staging, and formwork load estimation

9.4 Load Considerations for Non-Building Structures

• Chimneys, towers, silos, and tanks

• Horizontal and vertical load behavior

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Module 10: Documentation, Verification, and Compliance Review

10.1 Load Data Documentation in Design Reports

• How to present load summaries and calculations

• Tabulated representation of load assumptions

10.2 Quality Control and Independent Verification

• Cross-checking load data between disciplines

• Design peer review and approval protocols

10.3 Coordination with Other SBC Codes

• Interaction between SBC 301 and other design codes (302, 303, 304)

• Consistency in load factors and parameters

10.4 Case Studies and Common Field Mistakes

• Real-world examples of incorrect load application

• Lessons learned and best practices for compliance

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Outcome of the Course:

After completing all 10 modules, participants will be able to:

• Interpret and apply SBC 301 clauses confidently.

• Determine and apply all relevant load types in structural design.

• Form accurate load combinations for different design cases.

• Ensure compliance, safety, and economy in design documentation.

• Review and verify loading calculations as per Saudi building standards.