A consequence class is a classification under the Eurocode that indicates how serious the effects would be if a structure or structural element fails. The class ranges from CC1 (limited consequences) through CC2 (medium consequences) to CC3 (major consequences), and it determines the depth of calculation, checking and supervision required.
Application
The consequence class is based on the number of people at risk and on the economic, social and environmental damage in the event of failure. A garden shed falls under CC1, a home or office building typically under CC2, and a stadium, grandstand or high-rise under CC3. The higher the class, the stricter the requirements: a CC3 structure calls for more extensive calculations, additional design checking and more intensive supervision of the construction work.
Characteristics
The consequence class flows through into the safety factors and into the level of quality assurance. In construction law the consequence class is linked to a risk class that determines which independent quality inspector must check the building. In this way structural safety and legal oversight are directly connected, ensuring that riskier buildings receive proportionally more scrutiny.
Related terms
- structure
- building regulations
- foundation
- beam
- column
- steel
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