Knowledge Level (Eurocodes)

In order to choose the admissible type of analysis and the appropriate confidence factor values, the following three knowledge levels are defined:

KL1: Limited Knowledge
The limited knowledge level corresponds to a state of knowledge where the overall structural geometry and member sizes are known from survey or from original outline construction drawings used for both the original construction and any subsequent modifications, as well as a sufficient sample of dimensions of both overall geometry and member sizes checked on site. In case of significant discrepancies from the outline construction drawings a fuller dimensional survey is performed. The structural details are not known from detailed construction drawings and are assumed based on simulated design in accordance with usual practice at the time of construction. Limited inspections performed in the most critical elements should prove that the assumptions correspond to the actual situation. Information on the mechanical properties of the construction materials isn’t available so default values are assumed in accordance with standards at the time of construction accompanied by limited in-situ testing in the most critical elements.

Structural evaluation based on this state of knowledge is performed through linear analysis methods, either static or dynamic.

KL2: Normal Knowledge
The normal knowledge level corresponds to a state of knowledge where the overall structural geometry and member sizes are known from extended survey or from outline construction drawings used for both the original construction and any subsequent modifications, as well as a sufficient sample of dimensions of both overall geometry and member sizes. The structural details are known from an extended in-situ inspection or from incomplete detailed construction drawings in combination with limited in-situ inspections in the most critical elements, which confirms that the available information corresponds to the actual situation. Information on the mechanical properties of the construction materials is available from extended in-situ testing or from original design specifications and limited in-situ testing.

Structural evaluation based on this state of knowledge is performed through linear or nonlinear analysis methods, either static or dynamic.

KL3: Full Knowledge
The full knowledge level corresponds to a state of knowledge where the overall structural geometry and member sizes are known from a comprehensive survey or from the complete set of outline construction drawings used for both the original construction and subsequent modifications, as well as a sufficient sample of both overall geometry and member sizes checked on site. The structural details are known from comprehensive in-situ inspection or from a complete set of detailed construction drawings in combination with limited in-situ inspections in the most critical elements, which prove that the available information corresponds to the actual situation. Information on the mechanical properties of the construction materials is available from comprehensive in-situ testing or from original test reports and limited in-situ testing.

Structural evaluation based on this state of knowledge is performed through linear or nonlinear analysis methods, either static or dynamic.