Problem Based Assignment (25 Marks) Dateline: One week

Question 1:
CO3: Analyse, design and detail reinforced concrete staircase in accordance to the relevant
codes of practice in building design.

a) Figure 1 shows a 3-dimensional view of reinforced concrete staircase for an office

building. The flight of the staircase will be supported by a beam at upper floor and lower
floor. As the staircase is in an open space, no support can be provided at the landing. The
goings and landings on the stairs are required to use 2.5 cm thick marble finish on cement
mortar. The stair is located inside a building with low air humidity and is to be designed
for a variable action of 3.5 kN/m2. Design the staircase by providing the most economical
reinforcement. Check the shear, deflection, and crack and illustrate the detailing of the
staircase.
All missing data assumed must be clearly stated.

Figure 1: 3-dimensional view of reinforced concrete staircase

b) Referring to Figure 1, would reinforced concrete staircase be the most economical type of
staircase in comparison to steel and timber? Discuss your answer.