The approach to the design of steel frame structures is considered, taking into account the potential risk of occurrence of emergencies associated with their mechanical local damage, and possible material losses. It is proposed to classify these systems according to the safety level of the solution. In accordance with the introduced classification, methods for finding solutions are proposed based on the use of evolutionary modeling with subsequent risk assessment from the onset of an emergency. These methods include a combination of two-level stochastic optimization procedures. At the first level, a search is performed on discrete sets of design parameters of a design variant with a minimum cost. As constraints in the absence of emergencies, regulatory requirements of limit states are accepted, and the strength ratio is regulated. In a possible emergency for the construction is considered a limitation on survivability. At the second level, a heuristic search is performed for the design variant for which the risks of receiving material damage from an accident are minimal while ensuring a minimum of capital investments on the considered stages at building life cycle. Examples of the steel frame design with different levels of safety are given, which demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed approach.