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REMEMBERING SURFSIDE: In 2021, a 12-story condominium building in Surfside, Florida, collapsed, killing 98 people. COLLAPSE of Champlain Towers South in Surfside ⚠️‼️ •24 June 2021• 🏢So-called "creeping collapse," the gradual propagation of faults could have occurred for a variety of reasons, including design flaws or less robust construction remaining under building codes from four decades ago when the complex was built. But that progression couldn't have happened without a first critical failure. “It was standing for 40 years and it collapsed relatively suddenly,” said Glenn R. Bell, director of Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures, a program of the Institute for Structural Engineering of the American Society of Civil Engineers. “ But why did it collapse at that time? The 2018 report by the consultancy, an engineer hired by the homeowners' association to examine the building, where the building's owners were warned, revealed that corrosion of reinforcing steel was a critical problem. But other structural engineers said some level of corrosion was common in older buildings and a building was unlikely to collapse on its own. ⚠️ One of the primary causes of the building failure was the deteriorated waterproofing, allowing water to infiltrate the structure and accelerate the deterioration. Source: https://www.nytimes.com/ We can help! To ensure aging structures are safe, Florida legislators signed into law Senate Bill 4D on May 26, 2022, which as signed is section 553.899, Florida Statute. This new law requires multi-story residential buildings and condominiums over three (3) stories tall to receive mandatory structural inspections called Historic Inspections. The law also requires that Structural Integrity Reserve Studies be completed every ten years. At Smyth Engineering, Ensuring your safety, along with the safety of all families, is our highest priority. We are committed to implementing the necessary measures and protocols to protect everyone's well-being, recognizing the importance of creating a secure environment for all.

Has the board of directors of a property ever stated they didn’t have the funds to perform a necessary project? Have you been the 3 rd or 4 th engineer that has been reached out to state their structurally deficient building is safe. The board of directors of any given association is tasked with creating and communicating a vision for the community, for its directions and goals; however, they have a much greater responsibility than that. The board must protect the interests of the association, especially financial, but you cannot put a price on a human life. Trying to save money while sacrificing life safety is doing a disservice to the residents. I wouldn’t want to price put on my life similar to the early days of construction in the 1930s where the accepted rule of thumb was “1 death for every $1 million spent on a project”. I was working with a board in Boynton Beach earlier this year. They had cracks in the 1 st level cantilever catwalks in which they were concerned. This was when I purchased my Superdroids GPK-32 inspection robot. I used the robot to inspect the crawl space under the entirety of cantilevered 1 st level slab. There was significant spalling, exposed rebar, and the problem was only going to get worse. I developed a highly detailed set of plans to perform full depth repairs at the locations as determined by inspection robot, even drawing the entire property from scratch with all elevations, including sketching the precise dimensions of the side mounted rail and other details that were far from copy/paste. After getting (3) quotes from different contractors that were within 5% of each other, the response I received was that it was outrageous and why couldn’t a contractor just use “cement and paint” to fix the issue, whatever that means. In any case, I respectfully walked away as I could not risk my license I worked so hard for. Once the slab finally gives, and a poor resident breaks their leg or worse, it will create bigger issues. Mind you the high bid was roughly $200,000, which included painting the entire building. As an engineer, I am keen on doing what is right. I will never cut corners, nor will I go overboard and overdesign or recommend a full replacement of any building component that can be adequately repaired with sharp engineering and diligently going through the Florida building codes and all the resources to my disposal. I will never be the engineer to look the other way and state a building is “fine” when I can see there are structural deficiencies. I feel this is a disservice as yes, money will be saved, but will need to be paid in a much greater amount in the future.

This team Unleash a New Era of Efficiency in Smyth Engineering, Revolutionizing Our Building Inspections. With a growing emphasis on safety and efficiency, inspection companies are harnessing the power of robotics, IA, and technology to transform their worksites. Gone are the days when jobsite trailers lacked Wi-Fi connectivity, and tablets were an unusual sight in the field. While IA has undoubtedly played a significant role in project management, scheduling, and risk mitigation, the Engineering inspection sector often underestimates the profound impact those innovation, in the form of robots, can have on their bottom line. Traditional building inspections and their challenges, often involve time-consuming and risky processes, requiring engineer to physically access various parts of a structure, including rooftops and facades. Safety concerns, accessibility issues, and the need for comprehensive data collection have spurred the adoption of innovative technologies to address these challenges. This realm of building inspections, is undergoing a technological revolution, with the convergence of drones and ground-based robotics, such as the GPK-32 4WD Robot. This powerful combination is reshaping how inspections are conducted, offering unprecedented efficiency, accuracy, and safety in assessing structures. The synergy between IA and the GPK 32 4WD robot is evident in its ability to autonomously navigate complex environments, accessing areas traditionally inaccessible to human inspectors. Equipped with an array of sensors and cameras, this robot provides real-time data acquisition, enabling comprehensive visual inspections of building structures with unprecedented precision. IA algorithms empower the robot to interpret and analyze this data swiftly, identifying potential issues such as structural weaknesses, leaks, or hazards. Moreover, IA algorithms embedded within the GPK 32 facilitate adaptive decision-making, allowing the robot to dynamically adjust its inspection route and priorities based on the detected anomalies or evolving environmental conditions. This proactive approach enhances inspection efficacy while minimizing the risk of oversight or omission. Our Drones, with their aerial capabilities, provide a bird's-eye view of the environment, allowing for rapid and comprehensive data collection over large areas. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal sensors, LiDAR systems, and other specialized equipment, drones can capture detailed imagery and data from above, including inaccessible or hazardous locations. This collaboration leverages the unique strengths of each platform to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and safety in various scenarios: For example, in infrastructure inspections, drones can conduct aerial surveys of bridges, pipelines, or power lines to identify signs of damage, corrosion, or vegetation encroachment. Once potential issues are detected, the GPK-32 can be deployed to perform close-up inspections, assess structural integrity, and collect additional data with greater precision. And so, the GPK 32 4WD robot and drones have became a trusted ally and offers a holistic solution in the quest for safer, more resilient buildings in Florida and beyond, proving that when technology, robotic, IA and human ingenuity come together, anything is possible.

In recent years, the integration of drone technology has revolutionized various industries, and inspections are no exception. Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have become invaluable tools for conducting inspections with unprecedented efficiency and accuracy. In this blog post, we'll explore how drones are elevating the standards of our inspections across differents aspects. Aerial Perspective: Drones provide a unique vantage point, allowing inspectors to access areas that are challenging or dangerous for humans. Whether it's inspecting rooftops or other potentially hard to access areas, drones offer a bird's-eye view that enhances the overall assessment process. Efficiency and Time-Saving: Traditional inspection methods often involve significant time and resources. Drones, on the other hand, can swiftly navigate through diverse environments, capturing high-resolution images or video footage. This efficiency translates to quicker inspections and, consequently, reduced downtime for the business. Cost-Effective Solutions: Drone inspections are not only time-saving but also cost-effective. The expenses associated with traditional methods, such as scaffolding or specialized equipment, can be significantly reduced. Drones offer a more economical alternative without compromising on the quality and comprehensiveness of the inspection. Enhanced Data Collection: Drones are equipped with advanced sensors and cameras that capture detailed images and data. This wealth of information allows for more thorough analyses, helping inspectors identify potential issues that might go unnoticed in traditional inspections. The ability to capture real-time data enhances decision-making processes. Safety First: Safety is a top priority in any inspection process. Drones mitigate risks associated with sending humans into hazardous environments. They can access confined spaces, remote locations, or areas with potential structural instability without endangering human lives. This promotes a safer working environment for both inspectors and workers on the ground. Environmental Impact: With a reduced need for physical presence and fewer resources required, drone inspections have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional methods. This aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices in various industries. As technology continues to advance, the use of drones in Smyth Engineering inspections is even more prevalent. The benefits of increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, safety, and environmental considerations position drones as indispensable assets in maintaining and enhancing inspection standards across industries. Embracing this technology not only streamlines processes but also sets a new standard for thorough and innovative inspections in the 21st century for us. Our Inspection service allows property administrators to understand if there is a potential issue that could affect the lives of residents. We provide crucial insights to take corrective actions before it's too late. Contact the specialists in the Gold Coast.

In recent years, Florida has faced several tragic incidents related to building collapses and structural failures. These devastating events not only result in loss of lives but also leave communities shattered and raise questions about the safety of buildings across the state. As such, there's a pressing need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring again. Being an Engineer as well as a local resident, I undesrstand the Florida's unique geographical and environmental factors, including hurricanes, high humidity, and saltwater exposure, pose significant challenges to the structural integrity of buildings. Over time, these factors contribute to corrosion, erosion, and other forms of damage, compromising the safety of structures. The inadequate maintenance, substandard construction practices, and the lack of rigorous inspection protocols have consequences of such failures are dire, affecting not only the occupants of the buildings but also neighboring properties and communities at large. "Awareness" Building repair awareness is crucial for identifying potential issues early on and taking timely corrective actions. My job, Its involves educating property owners, tenants, building managers, and construction professionals about the signs of structural deterioration, the importance of regular inspections, and the significance of prompt repairs. I would like to leave you a guide to take into account when being part of buildings in Florida, either as part of the board of directors or as an inhabitant of it, since preventing tragedies related to building collapses requires a multi-faceted approach that combines proactive maintenance, robust inspection protocols, and adherence to building codes and standards. 1. Regular Inspections: Implement a schedule for routine inspections conducted by qualified professionals to assess the structural integrity of buildings and identify any signs of deterioration or damage. 2. Timely Repairs: Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major structural problems. Establish protocols for reporting and addressing repair needs promptly. 3.Structural Upgrades: Consider investing in structural upgrades, reinforcement measures, or retrofitting to enhance the resilience of buildings, especially in areas prone with our "Structural Integrity Reserve Study (S.I.R.S.)" 4. Education and Training: Provide training and educational resources to property owners, tenants, and maintenance staff on recognizing signs of structural issues, emergency signs, and best practices for building maintenance. 5. Community Engagement: Foster collaboration among residents, community organizations, local authorities, to collectively address building safety concerns and advocate for necessary reforms or improvements. As an Engineer deeply engaged in ensuring structural integrity and safety, I'm pleased to reflect on the progress made in 2024 within my company, Smyth Engineering. Our involvement in various milestone inspections and S.I.R.S., has been instrumental in fostering a culture of proactive maintenance and preventive measures among property managers and building owners. This first quarter of the year, it has been gratifying to witness the commitment of property managers and building owners to address repair needs promptly and implement preventive measures aimed at safeguarding the lives of occupants. This dedication reflects a significant shift in mindset, one that prioritizes safety and resilience in the built environment. Central to our efforts has been the implementation of awareness campaigns and corporate events aimed at educating stakeholders about the importance of building safety. Through these initiatives, we have seen a marked improvement in awareness across the Gold Coast region. By offering FREE CONSULTATIONS, we have been able to extend our contacts and empower individuals with knowledge about structural integrity and preventive maintenance best practices. As a result, there's a palpable sense of satisfaction and confidence among residents, knowing that their homes and workplaces are being diligently monitored and maintained. Looking ahead, I am optimistic about the significant impact we can make in enhancing building safety awareness. By remaining committed to our mission and leveraging innovative approaches, we can further elevate standards and ensure that safety remains paramount in every aspect of construction and maintenance. I am proud of the strides we've made in 2024, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of building safety practices in the Gold Coast community. Together, we can build a future where every structure stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to safety and resilience. Thank you for choosing us.

In the intricate dance of project management, the journey from inception to completion is akin to a carefully choreographed ballet. Each step has significance, but it is at the milestones where performance truly takes shape. Enter the unsung hero of project progression - milestone inspections. In the dynamic realm of project execution, staying on course and within parameters is a constant challenge. It is in the essence of these challenges that the importance of milestone inspections comes to the forefront. Far from being routine checkmarks on a timeline, these inspections serve as pivotal moments, wielding the power to shape project outcomes, mitigate risks, and ultimately steer the trajectory towards success. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the 10 keys for milestone inspections: 1.Quality Assurance: Milestone inspections serve as checkpoints during a project, ensuring that each phase meets predetermined quality standards. This helps in identifying and rectifying any issues before they escalate. 2.Risk Mitigation: Conducting inspections at key milestones allows project managers to identify potential risks early on. This proactive approach enables teams to develop mitigation strategies and prevent potential problems before they impact the project. 3.Timely Problem Resolution: By catching issues at milestones, teams can address and resolve problems promptly. This helps in maintaining the project timeline and prevents delays that might arise from unresolved issues. 4.Client Satisfaction: Regular milestone inspections provide an opportunity to showcase progress to clients. This transparency fosters trust and confidence as clients can see that their project is progressing as planned, and any concerns are being addressed proactively. 5.Resource Optimization: Milestone inspections allow for an evaluation of resource allocation. If there are any inefficiencies or bottlenecks, they can be identified and addressed, optimizing the use of resources and improving overall project efficiency. 6.Continuous Improvement: Milestone inspections contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. By analyzing the results of each inspection, teams can learn from past experiences, refine their processes, and enhance overall project management practices. 7.Communication and Collaboration: Milestone inspections facilitate communication and collaboration among team members. It provides a structured forum for discussion, allowing team members to share insights, address challenges, and work together towards common goals. 8.Regulatory Compliance: In Florida, milestone inspections are essential for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and requirements. Regular checks help organizations adhere to guidelines and avoid potential legal or regulatory issues. 9.Cost Control: Identifying issues early on through milestone inspections can help control costs. Addressing problems in their early stages is typically less expensive than fixing them later in the project timeline. 10.Project Visibility: Milestone inspections offer project stakeholders, including sponsors and upper management, a clear view of project progress. This visibility is crucial for making informed decisions, allocating resources effectively, and supporting the overall success of the project. Choose Smyth Engineering with confidence, backed by a proven track record of successful milestone inspections that have consistently met and exceeded client expectations. https://www.smythengineering.com/blank/projects

Welcome to our blog, where we delve into the critical topic of building safety in the state of Florida. While the Sunshine State boasts beautiful landscapes and vibrant communities, it also faces unique challenges that demand our attention. In this post, we'll explore the potential dangers in buildings across Florida and discuss ways to address and mitigate these risks. Flood Risk and Water Intrusion: Coastal areas in Florida are susceptible to flooding, and rising sea levels amplify this threat. We'll examine the risks associated with water intrusion, the impact on building foundations, and strategies for effective drainage systems and waterproofing to protect structures. Building Codes and Enforcement: A strong focus on building codes is essential for enhancing safety. We'll explore how Florida's building codes have evolved to address the state's unique challenges and the importance of strict enforcement to ensure compliance and reduce risks. Aging Infrastructure: As time passes, buildings can deteriorate, presenting safety hazards. We'll discuss the challenges associated with aging infrastructure in Florida, emphasizing the need for regular inspections, maintenance, and potential retrofitting to enhance resilience. Electrical Safety: Given the high humidity and storm activity, electrical safety is a crucial aspect of building management in Florida. We'll cover best practices for electrical installations, maintenance, and the importance of surge protection. Sinkholes: Certain regions in Florida are prone to sinkholes, geological phenomena that can cause sudden and significant structural damage. We'll delve into the science behind sinkholes, risk assessment, and potential preventive measures. Hurricane Vulnerability: Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, making it crucial for buildings to withstand powerful winds and heavy rainfall. We'll discuss the importance of proper construction techniques, storm-resistant materials, and the role of building codes in ensuring structural integrity during extreme weather events. Wildlife and Pest Concerns: Florida's warm climate makes it an attractive environment for various pests and wildlife. We'll explore the risks associated with termites, invasive species, and other pests that can compromise building structures, and discuss preventive measures. Conclusion: In this blog, we've scratched the surface of the dangers buildings in Florida may face. It's essential for homeowners, engineer, and policymakers we will work collaboratively to address these challenges, ensuring that structures not only meet the current safety standards but also we prepare for future risks. By staying informed and proactive, we can create a safer and more resilient built environment in the face of Florida's unique challenges. Transparency is at the core of our operations. When you choose our company Smyth Engineering, expect clear and transparent processes, ensuring you're well-informed and confident in our services.

The biggest misconception going around is that a Structural Engineer (S.E.) or Threshold Inspector/Special Inspector (S.I.) is required to perform Milestone Inspections. Per a Condo Industry Webinar on November 21 st , 2023, it was stated by Vicki Lopez, Florida House Representative, and Jennifer Bradley, Florida Senator, that the qualifications for a Milestone Inspection included a “Registered Architect or Engineer”. I am completely on board with getting a well detailed milestone inspection phase I, and subsequently phase II inspection; however, you are hiring an individual, not a designation. The quality of work and the diligent effort of an individual can never be measured. Per the direct qualifications as indicated by the Community Association Institute (C.A.I.) reserve study standards, a professional with construction, engineering, and subject matter expertise can perform acceptable reserve studies. In this way, a complete package can be developed that is cohesive in that the milestone inspection will reference the reserve study and vice versa. Let’s work together on making your building safe and develop an accurate budget for your building that I will always stand by and reasonably tailor to your needs without you incurring additional costs.

Do you know how to predict an asset’s remaining life, life when new, and estimated replacement cost of an asset? A reserve study is the key to save money in the long run but also protects the value of your properties in the following ways: 1. Helps prepare the budget with industry standard current costs per the Marshall & Swift Valuation Service. 2. Ensures the proper funding is available to make repairs and replacements, maintaining a positive image of your community and keep property values up. 3. Keeps your association running smoothly and a thorough plan is put in plan moving forward. 4. Helps eliminate or minimize unexpected special assessments 5. It’s unbiased and objective and puts the board of directors, homeowners, and property managers on the same page. Literally, it's a road map for the community to have an idea of what capital items to replaced/restored, when to replace them, an estimate of how much the replacement will cost, and how much annual funding to set aside each year over 30 years; but it requires a professional with construction, engineering, and subject matter expertise to perform this reserve studies per the Community Association Institute (CAÍ), in which we are a member of the Good Coast Chapter. Planning ahead for building inspections, not only saves money in the long run, but also protects the value of your properties. In this way, with Smyth Engineering, a complete package can be developed that is cohesive in that the milestone inspection will reference the reserve study and vice versa. At Smyth Engineering, we understand the importance of smart savings. Thank you for trusting us to secure the future of your investments! Investing with us, is investing in peace of mind. 💼💡

At Smyth Engineering, we are honored to welcome you to our new online space, the Smyth Engineering Blog. In this blog, we will explore critical topics related to civil engineering and construction in Florida, with a focus on providing valuable information and tips that contribute to a safer and more robust future for our communities. Our Passion for Civil Engineering Civil engineering goes beyond the construction of structures; it is the foundation upon which our society is built. At Smyth Engineering, we are passionate about this discipline and committed to structural integrity, safety, and quality in every project we undertake. Why We Created This Blog This blog is an extension of our commitment to sharing knowledge and promoting safety in the construction and civil engineering industry. Here, you will find up-to-date information on a wide range of topics, from preventive maintenance to trends in structural design and real-world case studies of successful projects. What You Can Expect In the Smyth Engineering Blog, we strive to provide valuable content for property owners, construction professionals, and anyone interested in civil engineering. Some of the topics we will explore in future posts include: Preventive Maintenance: Practical tips to maintain the integrity of your properties and structures. Advanced Structural Design: Exploring the latest trends in sustainable design and construction. Case Studies: Sharing real-world examples of successful projects and challenges overcome. Regulations and Standards: Key information about industry regulations and their significance. Join the Conversation This blog is an interactive space, and we want to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences. At the end of each post, you will find a comment section where you can share your ideas and engage in discussions with us and other readers.