Question

What is serviceability?

(a) It refers to condition when structure is not usable

(b) It refers to services offered in the structure

(c) It means that the structure should perform satisfactorily under different loads, without discomfort to user

(d) It means that structure should be economically viable

This question was addressed to me in final exam.

My enquiry is from Design Considerations, Analysis & Methods in chapter Basics of Structural Design of Design of Steel Structures

Answer 1

The correct choice is (c) It means that the structure should perform satisfactorily under different loads, without discomfort to user

For explanation I would say: Serviceability is related to utility of structure. The structure should perform satisfactorily under service loads, without discomfort to user due to excessive deflection, cracking, vibration, etc. Other considerations of serviceability are durability, impermeability, acoustic and thermal insulation etc.