Structural safety of cantilever structures

This article addresses common defects and causes of failure of vertical cantilever structures. It aims to assist designers and contractors to assess reasons for defects and to avoid failures.

Part 1 of this article aims to highlight safety concerns for various types of cantilever structure in their design, construction, use and maintenance stages. It provides general guidance for designers, contractors and maintenance teams, and clients to avoid failure during these stages.

This month's CROSS report concerns a post-fixed residential balcony and shows the value of third-party checking, which prevented a potentially dangerous structure.