News in Brief – April 2008

The following National Annexes have been approved for publication subject to minor amendment: EC3 Part 1.1 – General rules and rules for buildings; EC3 Part 1.2 – Structural fire design; EC3 Part 1.8 – Design of joints; EC3 Part 1.9 – Fatigue strength of structures; EC3 Part 1.10 – Selection of steel for fracture toughness and through thickness properties. Meanwhile, EC3 Part 1.3 – Cold formed, thin gauge members and sheeting and EC4 Part 1.4 – Stainless steels have been approved for public comment.

A competition draft for the 3rd International Architecture Competition for Sustainable Housing is available via download from www.livingsteel.org

An independent report by Building Sciences Consultancy has been commissioned by Architectural Profiles Limited. Entitled ‘Evaluation and Audit of Energy Savings for Non-Domestic Buildings using improved metal cladding systems’ the report is in response to the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates due to followed up by Display Energy Certificates later this year. An abbreviated version of the report is available from www.archprof.co.uk

SCI is heading up a partially European funded project to develop a quality online Eurocode training resource for steel design and construction. The project will also review frameworks in partner countries and explore opportunities to standardise professional engineering qualifications and training materials. The project will culminate in the delivery of 12 e-training modules ready for autumn 2009.

The BCSA’s Sustainability Group held its first meeting at Billington Structures’ headquarters on 26 February. The event was well attended by member steelwork contractors and chaired by Dr Derek Tordoff, BCSA Director General. A delegation from the BCSA’s sister organisation, the American Institute of Steel Construction, also attended.