UK Casino Closes Due to Structural Stability Fears: Genting
A casino in Westcliff-on-Sea, UK, called the Genting Casino, has been temporarily shut down due to the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) being used in its construction. This prompted safety concerns and fears about its potential structural integrity. The UK branch of Resorts World Genting ordered the closure "with immediate effect" after finding the RAAC during routine maintenance checks. The casino's website states that the material has been found in the roof, which presents a serious safety hazard and possible severe structural problems.
The corporation is conducting a full assessment to evaluate the issue's extent and determine the safety of the casino. The closure is a preventive measure, as there appears to be no imminent danger of roof collapse. However, no estimated date for reopening has been provided. Although the closure could stretch for a while, Genting urges Westcliff gamblers to seek other locations. They will continue to update the public through social media channels as more information becomes available.
RAAC and Its Vulnerabilities
RAAC is a versatile type of concrete created through autoclaving – a process involving high-pressure steam curing – which makes it lightweight and energy-efficient. But its use in load-bearing construction has received criticism. In the UK, RAAC was predominantly used in building projects from the 1950s and onward. Despite warnings that the material wouldn't last longer than 30 years, no measures were taken to address the potential issues.
While not all RAAC structures display problems, there have been instances where weaknesses have become apparent. For example, it's been a cause for concern in residential properties. These issues lead to discussions about the appropriateness of RAAC – celebrated for its lightweight and energy-efficient qualities – as a load-bearing material in residential construction.
Furthermore, structural failures have been seen in RAAC-containing buildings. A commercial building in Manchester experienced a partial collapse, with RAAC cited as a factor in the incident. It motivated a reevaluation of RAAC's use in similar structures.
The High Cost of RAAC in UK Schools
The biggest issue revolves around UK schools. RAAC played a major role in helping the nation save money on school construction but is now leading to additional expenses in maintenance and repairs. Over 174 schools were built using the material.
In September, just as students were getting ready for the fall term, more than 100 schools were temporarily closed. Previous inspections suggested they were safe, but further checks revealed otherwise. Temporary and online classrooms have replaced these structures while a comprehensive inspection is in progress. The goal is to replace the RAAC. However, resolving this issue may take years.
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Source: www.casino.org
