IT in Structural Engineering (Results of the Members' Survey on IT and Computers)

Are small - and by small I mean 1-25 person-consulting practices making better use of the advantages offered by today’s computer technology and software than their big brothers? In this feature, significant recent and future developments in PC software will be explored and linked to the requirements of the structural engineer. R. Dobson

This paper examines the direct and indirect means by which standards of structural safety are maintained. It discusses the hazards and risks to structural safety in the context of the continuing changes in the technology and management of construction and use of structures: financial risks are not addressed. J.B. Menzies

In recent years, a number of industries have adopted risk assessment as an element in their safety assurance process, in place of a purely prescriptive approach. The general approach can be used to assess various types of risk, including injury to personnel or to the environment or financial losses which have no safety implications but which may threaten business performance. A number of industries already include aspects of structural performance within risk assessments of their plant and operations; this may require only simple analysis or assumptions, but in some instances complex modelling is required. Risk assessment, howeves forms only one element in the overall safety assurance process and must be complemented by effective safety and quality management systems. M.P. Cotton and J.R. Maguire