ABSTRACT

Since ancient times U1e wise said "Prevention is better than cure". The same could be applied to the development of civilized nations who always depended on the early care of generations. Similarly a structure can be better cured and avaiJable for longer periods of service by fo!Jowing the recommended standards and specifications starting from initial steps. Nevertheless, in early time of structure's l ife span which is estimated at ninety nine years, structures may expose to aggressive environmental changes leads to deteriorations and catastrophic damages.
Earthquakes and Fires are the most disasters which have big impacts on structures which affect all of structural members /elements. In Pakistan, most of the existing structures will soon approach their service l ife which makes out a need for assessment and estimate the current condition of most of these strnctures in order to determine the losses in bearing capacity and applies the suitable maintenance work. At the same time, aggressive natural disasters occur which lead to great deteriorations such as an earthquake in Kashmir's region (2005), and recently flood




•ea out at two buildings exposed to a heavy fire in 2007 in the city of
Textile Factory , and Pakistan National Shipping Corporation



lYestigations, and detailed investigations. Primary investigations tions were not sufficient to assess the damage extent, but in 'gations were recommended. Schmidt hanuner test (NDT),
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