Abstract
This article addresses the reliability level implicitly required in the Eurocodes. Probabilistic models that
reflect the state of uncertainty associated with the basic variables relevant for structural design are derived
and used to establish the lifetime reliability level inherent in the Eurocodes for a large portfolio of design
situations. While the obtained average reliability indices generally exceed the nominal target value, the
results show a large scatter and non-negligible percentages of design situations do not comply with this
requirement. In addition, annual reliabilities are established, which confirm the conservatism of the
corresponding Eurocode requirement.