Deadly Engineering Season 1 Episode 10 Catastrophic Collapse
- TV-PG
- December 18, 2019
- 42 min
Catastrophic Collapse, the tenth and final episode of Deadly Engineering's first season, takes an in-depth look at some of the most devastating structural collapses in modern history and the engineering mishaps that led to them. The episode explores events such as the Hyatt Regency walkway collapse in Kansas City, which killed 114 people due to a flawed design and construction, and the collapse of the World Trade Center towers on September 11th, 2001, which resulted from a combination of design flaws, damage from the impact of the airplanes, and the intense heat generated by the burning jet fuel.
Through interviews with experts in the fields of engineering and construction, Catastrophic Collapse reveals the many factors that can contribute to a catastrophic failure of a building or other structure. These include flaws in the original design or engineering, errors made during construction or maintenance, and unexpected events such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Viewers will gain a new appreciation for the complex and interrelated factors that must be considered in order to create safe and resilient structures.
In addition to exploring specific disasters, the episode takes a broader look at how engineering failures can have wider social and economic impacts. For example, the Hyatt Regency disaster caused significant harm to the local community and brought about major changes in the legal liability of design-build contractors. Similarly, the collapse of the World Trade Center had profound effects on everything from national security policy to the field of structural engineering.
Throughout the episode, experts offer insights into the ways that engineering practices have evolved over the years in response to these kinds of disasters. From the introduction of new materials to the use of sophisticated computer modeling and simulation tools, engineers are constantly striving to make structures safer and more resilient. At the same time, the episode highlights the need for continued vigilance and oversight in the construction and maintenance of buildings and other structures.
Overall, Catastrophic Collapse provides a sobering reminder of the importance of engineering in our lives, and the many ways that things can go wrong when engineers and builders fail to take a comprehensive and careful approach to their work. Whether you're a professional engineer or simply someone with an interest in the built environment, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights and thought-provoking discussion.