This was an addition and expansion to the existing Operations Field Centre (OFC) building at the Parkland Refining Plant. The structure was exposed to significant blast loadings. The initial structural design was done by a consulting firm not registered in British Columbia, so it needed an independent review for local code compliance.

My role

I was the Independent Review Engineer, conducting a third-party assessment of the structural design.

What I did:

  • Evaluated the design consultant’s structural plans, calculations, and engineering models for the addition.
  • Analyzed the proposed connections between the new structure and the existing OFC building for load transfer and compatibility.
  • Assessed the existing building and foundation to determine if they could handle the additional loads, particularly under blast conditions.
  • Examined calculation sheets and computer analysis inputs/outputs to validate accuracy and assumptions.
  • Checked all aspects of the design against the British Columbia Building Code and established engineering practices.
  • Identified areas of non-compliance or structural concern and proposed modifications.
  • Worked with the primary design consultant to address concerns, discuss changes, and develop a detailed list of required alterations.

Deliverables

  • A refined structural design that was thoroughly vetted for local code compliance.
  • Confirmed structural capacity to withstand specified blast loadings.
  • A list of agreed-upon alterations that were incorporated into the final design, allowing the project to proceed.