Eurocode 2 (EC2) and BS 8110 are both concrete design codes, but they differ in their approach to load

combinations. EC2 is generally considered to be more comprehensive and up-to-date in this regard.

**Load combinations in EC2**

EC2 uses a limit state design approach, which means that the load combinations are designed to ensure
that the structure will not fail under any of the expected load conditions. The load combinations in EC2
are divided into two categories:

* **Ultimate limit state (ULS) load combinations:** These load combinations are designed to ensure
that the structure will not collapse under any of the expected load conditions.

* **Serviceability limit state (SLS) load combinations:** These load combinations are designed to ensure
that the structure will perform satisfactorily under normal operating conditions.

The ULS load combinations in EC2 are more complex than the ULS load combinations in BS 8110. This is
because EC2 takes into account a wider range of factors, such as the variability of the loads and the
resistance of the structure. The SLS load combinations in EC2 are also more complex than the SLS load
combinations in BS 8110. This is because EC2 considers a wider range of serviceability criteria, such as
cracking and deflection.

**Load combinations in BS 8110**

BS 8110 uses a working stress design approach, which means that the load combinations are designed to
ensure that the stresses in the structure do not exceed certain limits under any of the expected load
conditions. The load combinations in BS 8110 are divided into two categories:

* **Ultimate limit state (ULS) load combinations:** These load combinations are designed to ensure
that the structure will not collapse under any of the expected load conditions.

* **Serviceability limit state (SLS) load combinations:** These load combinations are designed to ensure
that the structure will perform satisfactorily under normal operating conditions.

The ULS load combinations in BS 8110 are less complex than the ULS load combinations in EC2. This is
because BS 8110 does not take into account the variability of the loads and the resistance of the
structure to the same extent as EC2. The SLS load combinations in BS 8110 are also less complex than
the SLS load combinations in EC2. This is because BS 8110 considers a narrower range of serviceability
criteria, such as cracking.

**Pros and cons of the load combinations in EC2 and BS 8110**

**Pros of the load combinations in EC2:**

* More comprehensive and up-to-date

* Takes into account a wider range of factors

* Provides a more reliable basis for design

**Cons of the load combinations in EC2:**

* More complex and time-consuming to apply

**Pros of the load combinations in BS 8110:**

* Less complex and time-consuming to apply

**Cons of the load combinations in BS 8110:**

* Less comprehensive and up-to-date

* Does not take into account the variability of the loads and the resistance of the structure to the same
extent as EC2

* May not provide as reliable a basis for design as EC2

Overall, the load combinations in EC2 are more comprehensive and up-to-date than the load
combinations in BS 8110. However, the load combinations in EC2 are also more complex and time-
consuming to apply.
The choice of which code to use depends on a number of factors, including the complexity of the
structure, the experience of the engineer, and the requirements of the client. For complex structures, or
where a high level of reliability is required, EC2 is the preferred choice. For simpler structures, or where
cost is a major factor, BS 8110 may be a more suitable choice.