❌ “Only high-rise buildings need robustness checks.” ✅ Buildings as low as 4 storeys in consequence class CC2a still require robust detailing.
With the rise of BIM and parametric design, CIRIA’s methodology is increasingly being automated. Some engineering firms now script notional removal checks into their analysis software. However, the —why a building is robust—still comes from the principles in C577.
❌ “Robustness means designing for a bomb blast.” ✅ No—it means preventing disproportionate collapse, which is usually achieved with simple tying.
❌ “My software does all this automatically.” ✅ No software can interpret tie forces and notional removal logic—engineering judgement is required.
Published in 2005 (with updates and related guidance since), CIRIA C577 – Robustness of structures provides a comprehensive methodology for designing and assessing structural robustness. It bridges the gap between the high-level principles of Eurocodes (BS EN 1991-1-7) and real-world construction practice.
If you design buildings, manage risk, or construct multi-storey structures, understanding CIRIA C577 isn’t optional—it’s critical.
CIRIA C577: The Essential Guide to Structural Robustness for Builders and Engineers