Verulam

This paper aims to describe the role that testing of masonry has played in the development of Code of Practice guidance for the structural design of masonry structures. It focuses on design to resist compressive and lateral loading. It describes two projects briefly which have utilised testing to develop designs beyond the scope of the guidance in current Codes. The role of testing in supporting guidance in our Approved Document to the Building Regulations is explained as this cannot be done by calculation. The way in which testing can support a Code of Practice approach to the appraisal of existing structures is llustrated. Prof. G. J. Edgell, BSc, PhD, CEng, MICE, FBMS CERAM