Statistical Analysis Of NYC Buildings And Wind Damages

TL;DR

This study analyzes the risk factors of wind-generated debris from NYC buildings, identifying key building elements prone to causing hazards during high wind events, based on inspection data from Manhattan.

Contribution

It provides a detailed statistical analysis of building features associated with wind debris risk, highlighting specific elements that inspectors should focus on.

Findings

Windows are the most likely to produce wind-generated debris.

Exterior fixtures and roof elements also pose significant hazards.

Inspection priorities should target these vulnerable building components.

Abstract

The objective of this study is to determine the types of existing buildings that are at risk of falling debris based on height, age, construction classification, construction methods and materials and occupancy. This study focuses on elements that could become debris under high wind action and present a hazard to pedestrians, vehicles, and nearby structures. This study evaluated the particular building elements that might become Wind Generated Debris (WGD). This was accomplished by inspecting 500 buildings located in Manhattan that experienced wind-related incidents. The results illustrate that the building elements most likely to produce WGD are windows, followed by exterior fixtures, roof elements, stairs/sidewalk shed, and balcony elements, respectively. Consequently, FISP inspectors should pay particular attention to these elements, which have higher probabilities in causing incidents.