Approved Persons: Insurance Aspects

Dr P. A. Jackson (F) (Gifford & Partners) Having been responsible for the assessment, testing and analysis of a number of similar bridges, I was very interested in this paper. I have a few comments and would like to hear the authors’ views.

This paper considers where over-design may exist in current engineering practice and, in particulal; traces the history of imposed load allowances and the relevance of current values, as designated in the current British Standard, to today’s commercial ofice buildings. Independent research into actual loading conditions is considered and compared with the normally adopted values of imposed loads. Anomalies with other western European countries are noted, and areas where a review of the current relevant British Standards may be appropriate are identfied. J.A. Austin

Mr D. K. Doran (F) It has been my privilege for the past 7 years to chair the two Institution task groups working on this topic. One of the benefits of being Chairman is that one does not have to do too much work. What cannot be delegated, of course, is responsibility, and I accept that. Tonight I should like to pay public tribute to the hard work of the two task groups which have valiantly laboured to produce these reports, and in particular tonight’s speakers for putting together, in fairly short order, our papers for this evening. Mr. D.K. Doran