IStructE & ICE consult on structural engineers' certification scheme
The following proposal to allow structural engineers to certify that their own work complies with the building regulations has been devised by the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). The aim of the scheme is to provide an alternative to the existing process of obtaining building control approval, which will benefit developers, structural engineers and building control officers alike.
Under the scheme structural engineers who are Chartered members of IStructE or ICE will, subject to approval, be able to register as an Approved Person. This will allow them to certify the compliance of a building control submission with the structural requirements of the Building Regulations in England and Wales.
The use of certification is expected to speed up the processing of applications by local authorities, benefiting developers. The proposals will also reduce the regulatory burden on those planning authorities allowing them to target their resources more effectively.
IStructE and ICE drew up the details of the Approved Persons scheme in conjunction with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Local Government Association. The consultation period for the proposal ended on 31st March 2003. The working group is currently considering the comments received.
Related files:
For further information contact Dr Susan Doran.
|
