Contemporary Issues in Building Failure and Collapse as an Environmental Challenge and Concerns for Developing World
Keywords:
Building Collapse, Contemporary Issue, Global Environmental Challenge, Structural Collapse Developing World, NigeriaAbstract
The occurrence of building collapse and failure has become a major issue of concern in the development of this nation as the magnitudes of this incident are becoming very alarming and does not show any sign of abating. This paper examines contemporary issues in building collapse as a global environmental challenge and concerns for the developing world (Nigeria). Structural collapse occurs all over the world, but the rate of occurrence in Nigeria is more rampant and devastating in recent times. It remains a major challenge in developing countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Structural collapse occurs all over the world, but the rate of occurrence in Nigeria is more rampant and devastating. Building collapse remains a major challenge in Nigeria and the causes can be traced to abnormal factors not obtainable in many other developing nations. Apart from the generally known causes of collapse such as design flaws, ageing, material fatigue, extreme operational and environmental conditions, accidents, terrorist attacks and natural hazards, the Nigerian factor becomes a prominent issue to contend with. Relevant books, seminar papers, workshop papers, articles, etc. were reviewed so as to examine the general view of individuals that have worked on similar study. Data for the study were obtained through historical data of past building collapse in Nigeria. Against this backdrop, this paper examines contemporary issues in building collapse and posits that stakeholders in the building development have great roles to play to reduce and avert this ugly trend. To this end, this study contextually explores the remote causes of building collapse in Nigeria. This literature discourse will go a long way in reducing the building collapse phenomenon. Some recommendations (remedial measures) were made as part of lasting solutions to tackle the challenges. The paper in conclusion makes a case for strategies that could serve as a way forward for ameliorating the trend.
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