The achievement of structural adequacy in buildings (1990)

The report provides an overview of the basic factors to be considered in achieving structural adequacy and establishes a framework and principles to be followed in design.
It replaces Criteria for structural adequacy of buildings published in 1976.

Compared with its predecessor, the emphasis in the report has changed, with more consideration being given to serviceability, durability and maintenance. This reflects experience in the intervening years.

The lessons since 1976 have conveyed one dominant message.
There is a need to consider adequacy in a broad context that goes beyond structural considerations, to embrace the performance of the building as a whole - while making judgementson issues raised by the time-factor, possibly changes in function, deterioration, maintenance, etc.

The report provides a sensible canvas on which the detail can be filled in - not only by structural engineers, but by every member of the design team together with the client.