BS EN 1991-1-3:2003+A1:2015 Eurocode 1. Actions on structures. General actions. Snow loads
Heavy snowfalls are rare in most of the UK. However, structural engineers still need to factor snow loads into building design calculations.
What does the standard cover?
BS EN 1991-1-3 provides guidance on determining the snow load to be used for the structural design of buildings and civil engineering works for sites at altitudes below 1,500m.
BS EN 1991-1-3:2003+A1:2015 gives information on different design situations and load arrangements that should be used for different locations. BS EN 1991-1-3 defines various parameters including the characteristic values of snow loading on the ground and the shape coefficients that should be used for roof treatments for both undrafted and drifted snow as well as for exceptional snow drifts.
The standard is accompanied by a National Annex, which contains parameters that are left open for national choice, known as Nationally Determined Parameters (NDPs).
How has the standard changed?
BS EN 1991-1-3 has been amended to:
- Include UK modified snow load shape coefficients for mono-pitch roofs
- Introduce new NDPs dealing with alternative drifting load arrangements and
- Change Annex B from a Normative into an Informative Annex
Who is the standard for?
The standard is essential for:
- Civil engineers
- Structural engineers
- Health and safety managers
- Risk assessors
- The Met Office
- Structural design software producers
- Rail design software users