Multiple hazards, such as earthquake, wind, fire and progressive collapse triggered by accidental local failure, impose enormous technical challenges to building structures throughout their service lives. With rapid development of construction materials and innovative techniques, the load-carrying mechanisms and structural performance against various loadings are being investigated at Griffith on a wide range of construction systems and structural types, including concrete flat plate structures, cold-formed steel structural members, aluminium structural members and tall timber structures. Large-scale experimental testing facilities have been developed and numerical simulation approaches have also been established for these investigations. Based on our research outcomes, relevant design guidelines and recommendations will also be derived.

All these research projects will ultimately improve the integrity, robustness and safety of various building structures popularly used in construction industry. Ultimately relevant design standards will be enhanced so that injury and loss of life can be prevented in both new and existing buildings.