The Colombian Experience in Adopting ACI 318 through Revision and Harmonization

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Title: The Colombian Experience in Adopting ACI 318 through Revision and Harmonization

Author(s): Juan Correal Daza

Publication: Web Session

Volume: ws_S26_JuanCorrealDaza.pdf

Issue:

Appears on pages(s):

Keywords:

DOI:

Date: 3/29/2026

Abstract:
This presentation describes The Colombian Experience in Adopting ACI 318 through Revision and Harmonization. Over four decades, Colombia has progressively aligned its national structural code (NSR) with ACI 318 while adapting it to local seismic, material, and construction conditions. The process, led by the Colombian Association of Seismic Engineering (AIS), integrated global standards with national practices through a revision-based approach. Key outcomes include provisions for intermediate seismic zones, reinforced concrete wall systems, and local inspection and material standards. The experience highlights the benefits of unifying regulations under a single, coherent framework, as well as the challenges of maintaining expert collaboration, institutional continuity, and periodic updates to remain consistent with ACI 318’s evolution.