For building structures, I suggest the fall arrest load should be treated as an extreme case of live load with a load factor of 1.0 (no add'l safety factor). For the connection of the fall arrest system and the building element, the load shall be an individual load case with OSHA specified...
I agree. Because it always lies in between fixed and pinned conditions, and is very difficult to evaluate, if possible. So, mechanically "fix" the footing pad is a good idea.
I agree with your senior engineer on his claim that the repair is a simple matter - cutting and replacing the damaged portion to restore it to the original shape, however, I won't claim this is a "non-issue", which might get your company into the "liability trap". Tell the owner that while the...
Due to its relatively small size, I doubt the effectiveness of the micro piles if placed too far apart. Can you provide the floor plan and mark the proposed shear wall location?
I would send an RFI or RFC to the designer to clear up the inconsistency between the drawings and the note, though a fully developed straight bar is as good as a standard hook.
ASTM C150 and C595 are two specifications of the cement. Per PCA article:
"To ensure a level of consistency between cement-producing plants, certain chemical and physical limits are placed on cements. These chemical limits are defined by a variety of standards and specifications. For instance...
"The D85 (root zone) is defined as the particle diameter below which 85% of the soil particles (by weight) are smaller. The D15 (gravel) is defined as the particle diameter below which 15% of the gravel particles (by weight) are smaller. For bridging to occur, the D15 (gravel) must be less than...
I would design a steel plate composite with the timber wall plate to help resist the tensile stress. The trick is how to make the connection to ensure composite action.
For an existing building, the "bearing capacity" should be a "known" from 1) the previous design or 2) evaluating the soil pressure under the existing wall. I don't think there is a need for Geotech involvement at this stage, but the interpretation by a structural engineer (you) to clear the air...
Slightly overstressed, by how much, 5%, 10%? It is not wise to disregard code requirements, but write-off by "engineering judgment" was a frequently used strategy. I've seen the write-offs up to 15% with ASD as the design method. You should clearly state your "justification" in your report though.