Fabric Structures Association developing standards in structural design

By Barb Ernster

The Fabric Structures Association (FSA) is working on a document that promotes design standards that its members (and nonmembers) can voluntarily agree to adhere to. The standards are outlined in a paper with concentration on structural design parameters. It encourages members to follow International Building Code (IBC) and American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) codes that are already in place, according to FSA division manager Beth Hungiville.

“The paper defines the codes specifically related to fabric as a structural element, snow load, roof live load, wind loads and material design properties,” Hungiville says. “It’s something that members can use to give to local code officials.”

Barb Ernster is a freelance writer based in Fridley, Minn.