Topic outline

  • Failure Mechanisms in Modern Construction

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides an in-depth exploration of the causes, identification, and prevention of structural failures in modern construction. It examines a variety of failure mechanisms including material degradation, design flaws, construction errors, and external loading conditions. 

    Through analysis of real-world case studies and engineering principles, this course equips licensed engineers with the knowledge to evaluate and improve structural integrity. The course emphasizes the application of modern construction techniques, forensic engineering methods, and evolving building codes to enhance resilience and safety in built environments. 

    Topics:

    Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the primary types of structural failures and their root causes. 
    • Analyze failure mechanisms in various construction materials including steel, concrete, timber, and composites. 
    • Evaluate the roles of design, workmanship, and environmental loading in structural deterioration. 
    • Learn how to perform forensic assessments following structural collapse or distress. 
    • Apply principles of durability and lifecycle analysis to ensure long-term structural integrity. 
    • Examine case studies of notable structural failures to identify lessons learned and prevention strategies. 
    • Understand the role of building codes and standards in mitigating structural failure risk. 
    • Explore innovations in monitoring technologies and predictive maintenance for modern structures. 

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, structural, geotechnical, mechanical, materials, forensic, and construction engineers. It also supports continuing professional competency requirements for licensed engineers across disciplines involved in the design, inspection, or analysis of structures. 

    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1