SEISMIC WORKS
reference was made to existing documentation, visual inspections on site, and experimental investigations. The mechanical strength values of the materials were evaluated based on the tests carried out on the structure and regardless of the discretised classes defined by the standards in force at the time of new constructions.
l Knowledge levels and confidence factors – On the basis of the investigations carried out in the knowledge phases, the ‘knowledge levels’ of the various parameters involved in the model (geometry, construction details, and materials) were identified, and the corresponding confidence factors were defined. These were used as additional partial safety coefficients, accounting for deficiencies in knowledge of the model’s parameters.
Figure 5. University Polyclinic of Modena.
plant sectioning, demolition of structures within active healthcare environments, and installation of external scaffolding for the works). l From €2,100 to €750/m2
for works
related to architectural, systems completion, and fire-prevention upgrading. The amounts considered in the parametric estimates vary depending on the intended use of the areas after intervention (Table 1).
As a consequence of the seismic events of 2012, the type of local strengthening and seismic improvement works already carried out on the structures was positively assessed, and it was necessary to complete these works as soon as possible. For this reason, the Modena University Hospital launched further monitoring activities on the buildings belonging to the entire hospital complex, with the aim of addressing, as far as possible, the structural deficiencies identified. This was pursued through the definition of seismic improvement interventions, involving the insertion of both localised and widespread reinforcements, thereby increasing the service life of the structures and the return period of the most severe earthquake that could be safely withstood. Given that, in existing constructions, the situations encountered are highly heterogeneous, it was impossible to establish specific rules for each case. Consequently, the safety assessment model was defined on a case-by-case basis, in relation to the reliable structural behaviour of each construction, taking into account both general regulatory guidelines and the reference model for analyses:
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l Historical-critical analysis – In order to correctly identify the existing structural system and its stress condition, it was essential to reconstruct the construction process and subsequent modifications made to the building over time, as well as the events that affected it.
l Survey – The geometric-structural survey referred both to the overall geometry of the structure and to that of its construction elements, including the relationship with any adjoining structures. The survey also recorded the modifications that occurred over time, as identified through the historical-critical analysis. The survey identified the load-bearing structure of the building, also considering the quality and state of conservation of the materials and constituent elements. Furthermore, ongoing or stabilised structural damage was surveyed, with particular attention to the identification of crack patterns and damage mechanisms.
l Mechanical characterisation of materials – To achieve an adequate understanding of the characteristics of the materials and their deterioration,
This staged
approach ensures that seismic safety improvements do not compromise hospital functionality
l Actions – The values of actions and their combinations to be considered in the calculations – both for the safety assessment and for the design of interventions – were those defined at the time by the standards for new constructions, unless as otherwise specified. For permanent loads, a detailed geometric-structural and materials survey made it possible to adopt modified partial coefficients, assigning adequately justified values.
The seismic vulnerability analyses conducted aimed to assess the resistance of the buildings against seismic action, highlighting the critical issues encountered, through the following steps: l Description of the main characteristics of each structural element (beams, columns, and slabs).
l Summary of the vulnerabilities identified.
l Description of the improvement interventions, aimed at increasing the remaining service life of the building (Fig 6).
Methodology With regard to the historical Monoblock building, the executive seismic improvement projects generally include the following works: l Removals and demolitions – Complete demolition of screeds, partitions, floors, false ceilings, fixtures, doors, windows, systems, etc., exposing the structures (columns, beams, slabs).
l Foundation strengthening – These works are planned at the base of the structures. The interventions include demolition of floors, subfloors, and slabs, installation of micropiles, and reinforcement of foundations with reinforced concrete works.
l Structural strengthening – For the vertical structures, plates, brackets, tie rods, bolts, and other necessary
IFHE DIGEST 2026
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