The integration of Eurocodes will pave the way for ‘greater design innovation’ and a more efficient use of resources, but could cause problems for smaller councils, according to the County Surveyors’ Society (CSS).
Eurocodes are the new set of European structural design codes for building and civil engineering works. They were conceived and developed over the course of the past 30 years and, according to the Institute of Civil Engineers, are arguably the most advanced structural codes in the world.
Matthew Lugg, chair of the CSS engineering committee, said the need to familiarise with such a large number of new documents could be problematic for smaller local authorities.
Lugg said the CSS was in discussions to establish how it could promote training for aspects of the codes’ implementation, in addition to a major launch conference it will support next March.
‘As the most recent structural design documents to be produced, Eurocodes incorporate the latest research and are technically up to date. ‘They are less prescriptive than BS5400, giving bridge designers greater discretion to apply engineering principles.’
Dr Steve Denton, director of bridge and structural engineering at Parsons Brinckerhoff, told delegates at the Surveyor Bridges conference: ‘The implementation of the structural codes is the biggest change to codified structural design ever experienced in the UK.’ Denton offered a reminder that the clock was ticking and there were just 52 weeks left to prepare for the codes’ March 2010 introduction.
Thomas Telford Training is offering a range of new courses to prepare the engineering and construction industry for the introduction. The four courses offer in-depth training for designers competent with current British standards looking to develop their Eurocodes design capability.
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