Snow loading in the UK and Eire: Ground snow load map

This paper describes how values for snow load coefficients have been derived. The motivation for this work arose because the guidance on combination of actions given in the European Pre-standards on Actions differs from that given in the corresponding British Standards. The European Pre-standards use coefficients to reduce the variable action values used in combination design checks. At the time of writing (2000) British Standards do not specifically quote coefficients, but give different partial factors for each load type for different combinations. To produce a consistent approach across Europe a research group has investigated the values of these coefficients in respect of snow loading. This paper presents the analyses performed on UK and Eire meteorological data to determine values of these coefficients for use with snow loads. These values have been proposed for inclusion in the European Standard. Mary E. Brettle, BEng, Centre for Structural Engineering, BRE, Watford, UK Diana M. Currie, BSc(Eng), Formerly of BRE, Watford, UK Nicholas J. Cook, DSc(Eng), PhD, FRMetS, FICE, CEng, FIStructE, EurIng, Wind Engineering Consultant, St. Albans, UK