Extreme conditions:
Some structural engineers specialise in designing structures to withstand unusual weather, like heavy snow, high winds and coastal storms.
Seismic:
Other specialists design structures for earthquake zones, helping to save lives by designing buildings that won’t fall down when they shake and twist in earthquake conditions.
Humanitarian:
Many structural engineers help respond to natural disasters: assisting rescue efforts, and designing improvements to make more resilient communities in future. They also help improve the lives of the world’s poorest people.
Heritage:
There are engineers who have particular skill in renovating old buildings, adapting them for re-use to modern standards and breathing new life into old structures.
Forensic:
Other engineers investigate the reasons why structures fail - sharing their knowledge to help prevent incidents in the future.
Domestic:
Many structural engineers work exclusively on people’s homes: designing safe, efficient works like chimney removals, extensions and loft conversions and assessing and repairing issues like subsidence and damaged walls.