Discussion on The Versatility of Glued-Laminated Timber by Mr. C.J. Mettem

‘Quality Assurance’ - benefits for the consultant? Robert De’Ath, of Forest Row, Sussex, has raised afresh the question of to what extent the formal pursuit of ‘QA ’ is capable of bringing tangible advantages to consulting civil and structural engineers: As the partner responsible for making the ‘QA’ preparations for our practice, I would welcome all the constructive advice fellow members are able to offer. So far I have familiarised myself with the general principles of what ‘QA’ involves, and my first impression is that it involves formal systems and records covering those usual activities which have always been part and parcel of my working life, in whatever practice or design office I have been working. Therefore, I am searching to discover what are the real benefits to ourselves, for embarking on ‘QA’, and what are the real benefits to our clients? I am reliably informed ‘QA’ saves contractors’ money. Does it do the same for consultants? Verulam

The London Ark stands on a triangular site defined by the A4 Hammersmith flyover and the adjacent underground cutting that carries the Piccadilly and District lines. In such a harsh environment the building was designed to take a defensive stance, forming an internal ‘oasis’ in the shape of a full-height atrium. R.H. Jackson and B. Leidner

This feature is a summary of ideas about preparation for the Part 3 examination. The examination is noted for its difficulty and high failure-rate. Having failed in 1989, I thought it through and passed in 1990. This is written in the hope that it will prove useful to those preparing for it. K.G. Armstrong