header-logo header-logo

08 November 2013 / Dr Rajen Lavingia
Issue: 7583 / Categories: Features , Expert Witness , Profession
printer mail-detail

Standing up

web_construction

Dr Rajen Lavingia identifies the requirements of a forensic engineer

James Amrhein defined structural engineering as: “The art and science of moulding materials we do not fully understand; into shapes we cannot precisely analyse; to resist forces we cannot accurately predict; all in such a way that the society at large is given no reason to suspect the extent of our ignorance” (Forensic Engineering, Kenneth L Carper).

Consulting structural engineers have been educated and trained largely for the design and construction of new works. Therefore, their focus is on how to make things work. They are often responsible for innovative design and researching and implementing daring new ideas. Good designers generally have a creative mind to develop simple and efficient solutions. As a result they have familiarity with industry standards and practices, codes and specifications.

Consulting engineers generally consider a number of design solutions during the initial design stages and then focus on one for the detailed design. They normally follow the design process based on well published and established design

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

DAC Beachcroft—Paul Brehony

DAC Beachcroft—Paul Brehony

Commercial disputes practice expands with partner hire in London

Ward Hadaway—Maria Coster

Ward Hadaway—Maria Coster

Partner appointed to lead family and matrimonial department in Leeds

Slater Heelis—Helen Marsh

Slater Heelis—Helen Marsh

Commercial property team expands in Manchester with partner appointment

NEWS
SRM Recruitment has been announced as the headline sponsor of the Law Society RFC Festival of Sport 2026, which will take place on 20 September at Richmond Athletic Association. The specialist legal search firm joins the event as organisers prepare to welcome more than 110 teams across five sports, including rugby sevens, netball and five-a-side football
The civil justice landscape could be heading for a shake-up, with reform of the Solicitors Act 1974 gathering pace
Global mobility is transforming family law, creating new challenges around jurisdiction, assets and child arrangements
A series of procedural developments could have significant practical consequences for litigators. Writing in NLJ this week, columnist Stephen Gold highlights important updates ranging from digital court reforms to family procedure and admissions of liability
As family structures evolve, the law may face difficult questions about inheritance rights for those in polyamorous relationships
back-to-top-scroll