For and Against European Certification

The millennium computer ‘time bomb’ potentially creates an enormous problem for all businesses. Many consultants, contractors and clients are already working closely together to address this issue and to consider solutions. It is important that the dangers facing consultants are recognised and that appropriate steps are taken to ensure that their practices are fully protected. Stephen Bamforth

Glulam The Glued Laminated Timber Association (GLTA) is described on the cover of its general brochure as ‘The voice of the glulam industry’, and its aim is to preach the gospel of the philosophy of glued laminated timber and the total timber engineering concept. The Association comprises principal members from manufacturing companies and also professional members. These latter are architects, engineers, lecturers, etc., who have an interest in timber engineering and in glulam in particular. ‘Glulam’ is the popular name for glued laminated timber whereby aesthetically attractive structural timber components of large cross-section and long lengths can be fabricated from small cross-section boards (laminates) in commercial sizes. F.A. Hall

This paper describes research into the provision and behaviour of stability bracing for non-domestic timber trussed rafter roofs. Testing of a full-scale roof of 11m span is detailed. The comparative effect of difSerent bracing arrangements under lateral load is presented in terms of the influence upon the overall stlfiess of the structure. The contribution of plasterboard ceilings and roof tiles to the overall load-resisting capability of the roof is also considered. Findings are discussed in the light of the requirements of Eurocode 5: Part1.l and the latest edition of BS 5268: Part 3. R.J. Bainbridge, C.J. Mettem, J.A. Gordon, A. Reffold and T. Studer