Choice of design method for reinforced concrete flat slabs should be based on what is appropriate for the structure, the designer's experience, and what will benefit the client most. This report gives pointers to how existing design guidance and methods could be developed and made more user-friendly, particularly with the introduction of Eurocode 2. It also points out issues for the permanent works designer to consider as a result of the desire to strike slabs earlier and speed up construction.

Contents

• Summary
  • Key messages
  • Best practice
• Using flat slab construction
  • Advantages
  • Disadvantages
• Choice of design method
• Rationalisation of reinforcement
• Optimising slab thickness
• Designing for the ultimate limit state
  • Loadings
  • Designing for flexure
  • Designing for punching shear
• Designing for serviceability
  • Deflections
  • Cracking
• Conclusions and recommendations
• Acknowledgements
• References
• Annex 1: List of currently available RCC spreadsheets