NTA 8790 assessment – Rotterdam Ahoy

Commissioned by PVM, Iv assessed the structural integrity of Rotterdam Ahoy in accordance with NTA 8790.

Rotterdam Ahoy is a multifunctional events venue that has grown since its opening in 1971 into a large complex comprising the Ahoy Arena, several exhibition halls, the Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre (RACC) and RTM Stage. With a capacity of approximately 40,000 visitors, Ahoy fulfils an important public role as a venue for major events, conferences and exhibitions.

For the assessment, Iv carried out technical inspections and reviewed the construction documentation to identify the key structural elements and establish a clear picture of the complex’s structural integrity.

The scale, diversity and intensive use of the complex made this a particularly challenging assignment. Due to the large number of people who may be present at the same time, Ahoy falls within the first phase of the statutory structural integrity assessment under NTA 8790.

In addition, the various building sections are made up of different structural systems. The Ahoy Arena, for example, consists of a reinforced concrete substructure with precast grandstands and a steel roof structure with truss girders spanning up to 82 metres. The exhibition halls are constructed with steel lenticular trusses, while the RACC combines steel structures with precast columns and hollow-core slab floors. RTM Stage features large truss girders, solid concrete walls and cantilevered balcony structures.

This variation meant that an integrated assessment of all relevant structural elements was required. Drawing on Iv’s experience in designing and detailing large public buildings, and applying the NTA 8790 assessment framework, we were able to establish a comprehensive picture of the building’s structural integrity.

By providing a clear and demonstrable assessment of the structural integrity of Rotterdam Ahoy, PVM and the competent authority can effectively evaluate and continue to safeguard the safety of this complex public building.