evolutionMay 2010

sharing knowledge, building best practice

Celebrating50 Years

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Editorial

Contents

The UN climate change talks in Aprilended with agreement to intensifythe meeting schedule and achieve astrong outcome in Mexico at the endof 2010. The UNFCCC processrecognises that the only way toovercome complex issues is throughdialogue and collaboration.

Collaboration has formed the basisof CIRIA’s work for 50 years. To markour anniversary we have included inthis issue a quick tour of some of thehighlights of CIRIA’s past, presentand future.

Climate change also provides acommon thread for three of thearticles in this issue of Evolution.Brian McDonald of Natural Englandexamines the role of greeninfrastructure in creating sustainablecommunities that can help societyadapt to the effects of climatechange and improve people’s healthand quality of life through regularcontact with nature. Greeninfrastructure includes green roofs,which are increasingly popular. Tointroduce the topic, Louise Clarkedescribes the different types of greenroofs and their benefits. This will befollowed in September by the secondWorld Green Roof Congress beingorganised in London by CIRIA andLivingroofs.org

Our third article looks at the loss ofessential services during extreme

© CIRIA 2010

Evolution is published by

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ISSN No. 01402817

� 3

Members update

� 4

Green infrastructure

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Benefits of green roofs

� 8

Climate change effects on ageinginfrastructure

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CIRIA turns 50

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CEEQUAL Scheme

� 14

Getting “design for movement”right

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Keeping up-to-date

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Latest CIRIA courses

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New and forthcoming titles

� 19

Getting on top of “top events”

Bill HealyChief Executive

Evolution is printed with vegetable inks onpaper comprising 75 per cent post-consumerwaste and 25 per cent ECF recycled paper.

Photograph acknowledgements

Front cover M1 J6A-10 widening gantryinstallation, Matthew Walter,Balfour Beatty SKANSKA

Page 4–5 Chris Gibson and Natural England

Page 6–7 Dusty Gedge, Livingroofs.org

Page 9 Stephen Hird, Reuters

Page 15 Reuters

Box 3, Stuart Alexander

Page 19 London Fire Brigade

weather events such as the floodingof summer 2007 and the snowfallbetween December 2009 andJanuary 2010. Ben Kidd explainshow the experience of these eventstogether with acceptance ofpredicted climate change have raisedthe profile of the need for greaterstakeholder collaboration andprioritised investment to bring aboutimproved infrastructure resilience.

Change sometimes needs a helpinghand. CEEQUAL is an assessmentand awards scheme for civilengineering projects that go beyondminimum requirements forenvironmental and socialperformance. Philip Charles explainshow it works.

The final articles in this issue inviteyou to get involved. We revisit one ofCIRIA’s structural engineering guides:Design for movement in buildings.Stuart Alexander makes the case forupdating and invites contributionsand case studies. In Viewpoint, MikeCross (HSE) argues for betterunderstanding of major incidents. Dowe need a new approach to riskmanagement? Contact us tocontribute to the debate.

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CIRIA NewsThe International LeveeHandbook

International collaboration involvingGermany, France, Ireland, theNetherlands, UK and the USA hasalready resulted in an extensiveexchange of knowledge on this topicand this will be consolidated into ahandbook. Work on the projectstarted with an investigating study.This involved several internationalworkshops as well as site visits toillustrate both the devastation andthe remedial works undertakenfollowing hurricane Katrina (USA) andXynthia (France). Contact:kristina.gamst@ciria.org

Lean construction

Increased interest is being shown inlean principles, accentuated partly bythe current economic climate andthe appreciation of the need to domore with less. This project willgenerate industry consensus andmomentum for the application oflean in construction. Contact:owen.jenkins@ciria.org

Slips and trips – update

The popularity of CIRIA’s guide,including its adoption by thetransport sector, together with rapidprogress being made in materialsand applications led CIRIA to producethis supplement. Key messages areidentified and issues for clients,manufacturers and otherstakeholders are highlighted.Contact: alan.gilbertson@ciria.org

Alternative views onradiological risk estimation

CIRIA’s nuclear networks exemplifyour role in bringing together differentstakeholders. This position paperaims to provide a balanced viewtaking into account the perspectivesof campaigning organisations,government organisations, and thoseof site licensed companies, regulatorsand other industry professionals.Contact: rajnika.patel@ciria.org

SuDS National Standards

CIRIA’s involvement in sustainabledrainage spans over a decade, andhas been selected to lead theconsortium providing technicaladvice to DEFRA and CLG on thedevelopment of these standards.Contact: paul.shaffer@ciria.org

Designing against crimeand disorder

The design of urban areas can affectthe rate of crime and by improvingthe urban environment it can act asa deterrent and create greaterownership of places that helpsreduce crime. CIRIA is developingguidance exploring how planners anddesigners of the built environmentcan respond to the issues arisingfrom threats to social well-being andinfrastructure. Contact:louise.clarke@ciria.org

Transport infrastructuredrainage: conditionappraisal and remedialtreatment (RP941)

CIRIA are well placed to highlight thelink between poorly maintaineddrainage systems and the incidenceof earthwork and pavement failures.This research project will developgood practice guidance on the whole-life management of drainage assets.Contact: ben.kidd@ciria.org

Under the sea – Geo-Seas

CIRIA is involved with an EU FP7project that combines 26 marinegeological and geophysical datacentres across 17 Europeanmaritime countries. The surveycovered topics such as requirementson geological/geophysical seabeddata products, the needs forstandardisation and harmonisationand also the requirements forviewing and access services.Contact: kristina.gamst@ciria.org

Sound foundations –geotechnical issues inconstruction

At this second annual workshop,delegates discussed a series oftopics ranging from pile headsnapping to electronic data formats.The papers, prepared by a range ofindustry professionals, have nowbeen published. Contact:chris.chiverrell@ciria.org

Online training –contaminated land

CIRIA’s extensive range of work oncontaminated land now includes arecently launched online course. Thecourse is aimed at graduates andmore experienced professionalsworking in contaminated land for thefirst time. Contact:joanne.kwan@ciria.org

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This selection of recent projects illustrates the breadth and relevance of CIRIA’s work. Itunderlines the continuing importance of CIRIA’s research process involving collaboratively-funded projects, with specialist industry teams commissioned to produce the guidance:

� Update of construction over abandoned mine workings

� Mitigation and remediation of volatile organic compounds

� Sustainable procurement in construction

� Design for movement in structures – update (scoping)

� Design against crime and disorder

� Lean construction

� Update of environmental good practice site guide

� Conservation and enhancement of biodiversity in civil engineering projects

� Large trees in the urban landscape – design and management guide

� Infrastructure drainage: condition appraisal and remedial treatment

� International levee handbook – scoping study

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Natural developments thatinspire our livesBrian McDonald fromNatural England discussestheir new greeninfrastructure projectThe beauty and wonder of thenatural environment inspires andenriches our lives. It plays animportant role in creatingsustainable communities, can helpus adapt to the effects of climatechange and improve people’s healthand quality of life through regularcontact with nature.

Natural England, the government’sadvisor on natural environment,aims to deliver these benefits closeto where people live and workthrough a new project thatencapsulates the concept of “greeninfrastructure”.

A “natural development” project,already supported by Arup, BarkingRiverside, Land Securities andCountryside Properties, will highlightbest practice and raise the standardof design and delivery for greeninfrastructure across the country.

The project aims to ensure thatgreen infrastructure is woven intourban development. This will eitherbe by incorporating it into newdevelopments or by adapting existingbuildings or areas, to deliver locallydistinctive places that work withnature.

Green infrastructure provides theenvironmental foundation thatsupports the function, health, wealthand identity of our communities. Setwithin, between and beyond oururban areas, it provides a structurednetwork of multi-functional openspaces and natural assets thatinclude trees, parks, gardens,allotments, cemeteries, living roofs,woodlands, green corridors, riversand waterways.

Natural England believes that thesegreen places need to be integratedinto the planning, design andmanagement of our towns and citiesfor the many benefits they present tosociety. For example, greeninfrastructure can help reducecarbon, generate renewable energy,raise air quality, enhance biodiversityand water management, increaselocal food production and promotehealthy communities. Theseecosystem services are essentialingredients for successful places,and research states:

� a wooded park can filter out 85per cent of air pollutants and astreet lined with trees by up to 70per cent

� people who live within 500 m of aquality greenspace are 24 percent more active. Increasingexercise levels of just one percent of the UK’s population wouldsave lives and deliver nearly£1.5bn in health care savings

� in heat waves urban greeningcan cool the city by as much as4°C, while green roofs slow downthe runoff of stormwater into ouralready overburdened drainagesystem.

The natural development projectcondenses the benefits of greeninfrastructure into four key areas:

1 Natural signature: distinctivelandscapes with more wildlifeand ecological connectionsshaped by peoples’ needs.

2 Natural resilience: the greeningof towns and cities thatcontribute to climate changeadaptation through floodmanagement and urban cooling.

3 Natural health service:accessible natural green spacesclose to where people live andwork, providing opportunities forhealthy living.

4 Natural connections: childrenplay in wildlife rich spaces andadults are involved inenvironmental activities,reinforcing a sense of place andownership.

Poul Christensen, Chair of NaturalEngland said:

“A ‘natural development’presents a great opportunity forthe development andenvironment sectors to workclosely together in greeningurban development. Greenspaces transform urban life bycooling our cities, filtering outpollutants, improving people’shealth, supporting wildlife andcreating attractive places to liveand work in. Incorporating greeninfrastructure into the very core

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of spatial planning and urbandesign would deliver countlessbenefits for our cities and theirinhabitants.”

Peter Head, Director at Arup andchampion for innovation andenterprise in the Thames Gatewaysaid:

“I am very supportive ofdeveloping understanding of howimportant green infrastructure isfor economic vitality, good healthand happiness. We can bringthese benefits to existingcommunities as part of improvedlow carbon place making andenable people to live in harmonywith and enjoy the natural world.This should be central to all lowcarbon housing retrofit.”

Brian McDonald from NaturalEngland said:

“Our aim, through projects suchas natural development, is towork with partners to help deliverlocally distinctive places that workwith nature to deliver a widerange of benefits: for health andwell-being, climate changeadaptation and reconnectingpeople with nature.”

Natural England views greeninfrastructure as critical toregeneration projects and is involvedin the delivery of 95 greeninfrastructure projects across thecountry, from Plymouth and Bristol inthe south-west, to the urban fringe ofDarlington and Newcastle in thenorth-east. They are also workingwith their partners within the growthareas, growth points and proposedecotowns to prepare and adoptgreen infrastructure strategies anddemonstrate good practice on theground.

The organisation has also recentlypublished guidance to outline itsposition in relation to greeninfrastructure, planning and delivery(Natural England, 2009). Aimed atlocal authorities and developers, itarticulates the importance of earlyplanning for green infrastructure andintegrating green infrastructurestrategies within spatial planning.

Sustainable drainage

Using sustainable drainage systems(SuDS) to manage surface water candramatically improve the urbanenvironment through the use oflandscaped SuDS components andinteraction with nature and water.SuDS should include landscapeintegrated into the local communityproviding a valued and attractivecontribution to green infrastructure aswell as managing flood risk and waterquality.

CIRA’s new guidance Planning forSuDS – making it happen will bepublished in 2010. This guide willfocus on the delivery of SuDS withinthe planning and developmentprocess ensuring successfulsustainable drainage is effectivelyspecified by planners and delivered bydevelopers.

Recognising the vital contribution thatspatial planning and urban designmake to the delivery of SuDs, CIRIA isin the early stages of developing aproposal to produce an urban designtoolkit for SuDs. This toolkit willidentify and explain the principles ofSuDs, and demonstrate theirsuitability for a variety of new buildand retrofit applications. The proposalwill highlight their multi-functionalityincluding how they add to local placemaking and place shaping as well asgreen infrastructure.

For further information on theseinitiatives please contact Paul Shaffer,CIRIA, at: paul.shaffer@ciria.org

Conservation and enhancingbiodiversity within civilengineering projects

The delivery of infrastructure providesvaluable opportunities to deliver greeninfrastructure including habitats forwildlife and areas of open space foramenity and recreation. This givesattractive natural corridors throughwhat otherwise would be unattractiveoften intensively developed areas.

CIRIA is currently developing guidanceto combine information available onthe multiple opportunities presentedby infrastructure assets and theirsurrounding landscape. The guidancewill go beyond regulatory complianceexploring imaginative opportunities fororganisations to contribute to localbiodiversity and green infrastructurethrough the delivery and managementof infrastructure assets.

For further information on thisproposal please contact Philip Charles,CIRIA, at: philip.charles@ciria.org

Clapton Park Estate Flowers

To find out more and sign up to thenatural development project pleasevisit:

www.naturalengland.org.uk

Natural England’s Greeninfrastructure guidance (NE176) canbe downloaded from:

www.naturalengland.org.uk

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Louise Clarke explores thebenefits of this increasinglypopular form ofconstruction and theforthcoming London WorldGreen Roof CongressLondon’s parks have long beenrecognised as having a range ofecological, recreational and otherbenefits. In terms of scale, thebenefits of a green roof may not beclear until you consider thatLondon’s green roofs cover an areaequivalent to Hyde Park.

Green roofs use vegetation and soilto provide a sustainable roofingsolution. They have multiple benefitsand are steadily becoming amainstream technology, and areincreasingly being recognised as animportant resource that can helpadapt and mitigate the effects ofclimate change.

Green roofs are a useful way to addvegetation to otherwise wastedspace. Conventional roofs add littlebenefit to the surroundingenvironment and are often amissed opportunity. Space in urbanareas is limited especially greenopen space so there is theopportunity to use roof space togain multiple benefits. Roofs canhave substantial benefits if they areused as a resource to create greenspaces providing environmental andamenity benefits.

The term green roofs refers toseveral different types of roofs thathave vegetation on them includingliving roofs, brown roofs, terracesand balconies. Green roofs can beincluded in new buildings andretrofitted on existing roofs.Retrofitting green roofs can beparticularly beneficial when space islimited.

The main types of green roofs areextensive, simple intensive andintensive:

� extensive roofs have thin soilsthat consist of drought and windtolerant plants including sedums,other succulents and wildflowers.They have minimal maintenanceand are not normally designed tobe accessible

� simple intensive often consists oflawns or ground covering plantsthat need regular maintenance

� intensive roofs are gardens andparks or even semi naturalwoodland at roof level and areusually accessible to people.Here vegetation includes scrubs,trees, beds and lawns andrequires regular maintenance.

Benefits of green roofs

Green roofs have multiple benefitsfor the environment, our health andwell-being. They also add to thegreen infrastructure of urban areas,which is increasingly being seen asan important part of adapting andmitigating the effects of climatechange. They are a practical way ofreducing building running costs,reducing the negative developmentimpacts of climate change andincreasing the quality of the urbanenvironment. These factors areachieved through increased thermalperformance, improved waterquantity and quality, enhancingbiodiversity and improving amenity.

Thermal performance

The inclusion of green roofs in urbanareas can help reduce the urban

heat island effect (UHI). UHI iscreated by surfaces such aspavement and conventional roofsthat absorb solar energy, which thenradiates as heat. This raises thetemperature of urban areas byseveral degrees compared to thesurrounding rural areas. Hightemperatures in urban areas causesmore air conditioning units to beused resulting in increased energy.

Green roofs can help reduce theeffects of UHI as less heat isradiated in the atmosphere, and thethermal performance of buildingsincreases by reducing the need forair conditioning and providinginsulation in winter. This helpsreduce the daily range oftemperatures in buildings.

Water

Green roofs can provide significantbenefits through surface watermanagement. They help reduce thepeak rate of runoff and areimportant components ofsustainable drainage systems(SuDS). Also, they are major source

Gardens in the sky

Green roof at Roman Fort, Plochingen, Stuttgart

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control mechanism in the SuDSmanagement train.

Green roofs can help reduce thepollution from rainfall runoff.Pollutants on roof surfaces caninclude dust or contaminantsdissolved in rainwater. Green roofscan retain and bind these pollutantsimproving the water quality of runoffto the receiving watercourse.

Biodiversity

Green roofs have considerablebiodiversity benefits by providingliving space for plants and animals.They can help provide new habitatareas supporting a variety of plantsand more habitat for rare speciesespecially those associated withbrownfield land and open space.

Green roofs are particularlysignificant in urban areas as theygive valuable habitats in areas thatare often lacking in biodiversity. Theycan also play an important role ofproviding links and connectionsbetween existing habitats helping toprovide corridors for wildlife throughurban areas.

Amenity

Amenity provides both tangible andintangible benefits to a developmentor property. The amenity of an areacan increases its attractiveness andvalue while adding to the comfortand convenience of the community.

Green roofs give amenity to places byincreasing open space, adding to thegreen infrastructure and providingvisual benefits to developments andthe community.

World Green Roof Congress

The World Green Roof Congress(WGRC) will be held on 15–16September 2010 in London. It is anopportunity for experts from acrossthe world to showcase green roofsand walls. The idea of the Congressis to bring together the latestresearch from around the world andleading international figures in thegreen roof world, to continue tostimulate innovation and uptake ofthis important element within thesustainability agenda.

Green roofs are common throughoutGermany, Switzerland and Austria. Inthe UK they have slowly evolved intothe mainstream in the last 10 years.In London there are examples of alltypes of green roofs including thehighest in Europe, if not the world, atBarclays Headquarters in CanaryWharf. Others include a park/gardenat the top of Canon Street stationand the famous Kensington Gardens.

In London there is now estimated tobe in the region of 500 000 m² ofgreen roofs. Although this is quite alarge area and demonstrates thatgreen roofs have joined themainstream, this is relatively smallwhen compared to other leadinggreen roofs cities in the world suchas Stuttgart and Basel. The WGRC isan opportunity to discuss how their

delivery can be progressed andachieve mainstream inclusion inbuildings.

This Congress will be the third suchevent. The first WGRC was held inBasel, Switzerland followed byLondon in 2008. The previous eventin London attracted over 300delegates from around 15 countries.The Congress in 2008 was aresounding success both in thenumbers of people attending, andthe satisfaction of sponsors,speakers and delegates. The eventwas a great opportunity for learningabout research and gave plenty oftime for networking and promotionalactivities.

Dusty Gedge, president of the EFBand director of Livingroofs.orgcommented on the WGRC:

“I am really excited thatLivingroofs.org and CIRIA areagain bringing the latest in greenroofs to London in 2010. TheWGRC 2010 should ensure thatnot only green roofs continue todevelop and to be used in the UKbut will ensure that London isrecognised as pushing theboundaries of green roofs in theworld.”

The Congress will provide a platformfor communication in the latestresearch, case studies and policyinitiatives. It will focus on what canbe done to fully exploit the multiplebenefits of green roofs in adapting toclimate change and strive to createinnovation, encouraging the use andadoption of green roofs.

There are many benefits of greenroofs for the built environmentincluding helping achieve climatechange adaptation and mitigation.They also offer wider social benefitsand their inclusion is becoming moremainstream. The WGRC provides anopportunity to raise their profile andincrease their use.

There are several ways to get involvedwith the Congress. Opportunitiesrange from speaking, arranging agreen roof tour, to sponsoring theconference and related events. Forfurther information please visit:

www.worldgreenroofcongress.com

Green roof at Canary Wharf, London

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Infrastructure resilience foran uncertain futureBen Kidd highlights thedifficulties facing ageinginfrastructure in becomingmore resilient andadaptable to future climatescenarios

Introduction

The loss of essential services, suchas power, water, transport andtelecommunications during the floodevents of summer 2007 highlightedthat disruption to service of thiscritical infrastructure can have directeffects on both society and theeconomy. Other high consequenceevents such as the disruption causedby large snowfall between December2009 and January 2010, wheresignificant strain was put on road gritresources, add weight to the need forfurther research into methods andtechnologies. This will help toimprove the resilience of our nation’scritical legacy infrastructure.

The experience of such large scaleextreme weather events, togetherwith acceptance of predicted climatechange effects, have raised theprofile of the need for greaterstakeholder collaboration andprioritised investment to bring aboutimproved resilience.

The challenge

The UK has a large stock of legacyinfrastructure. Much of this datesback to Victorian times whenengineering designs were good, buthave since fallen into disrepairthrough lack of maintenance or nowrequire enhancement to cope withincreased incidents of extremeweather.

Devolution and privatisation of theutilities sector has introduced newchallenges with a significantly

increased number of stakeholdersand geographical/legislativeboundaries requiring increasedknowledge sharing and co-ordination.

The difficulty in co-ordinating theprioritisation of investment, witheach infrastructure sector havingdifferent funding sources andregulatory regimes, increases thescale of the challenge.

Strategic level resilience

Increasing awareness ofinterdependencies betweeninfrastructure assets and the needfor a co-ordinated effort to buildlevels of resilience led to theformation of the Natural HazardsTeam (NHT) within the Cabinet Officein 2009, which sits as part of theexisting Civil ContingenciesSecretariat.

Given the co-ordination challengesdescribed before, the NHT is wellplaced to affect change right acrossthe UK, since the Civil ContingenciesAct (CCA) provides a commonframework for all stakeholders anddevolved powers. For example,measures to mitigate one of themost prominent hazards to UKinfrastructure – flooding – are oftenconstrained by a raft of differentlegislation and guidance acrossgeographical boundaries. The CCA isalso clear on roles andresponsibilities, something that isaltogether more complex on theissue of flood risk management,although this is due to be clarified viathe Flood and Water ManagementBill.

The NHT has recently published theirStrategic framework and policystatement (Cabinet Office, 2009),which gives details of the process,timetable and expectations for theircritical infrastructure resilience

programme (CIRP). During 2009 thegovernment departmentsresponsible for each of the ninesectors of national infrastructure(communications, emergencyservices, energy, finance, food,government, health, transport andwater) assessed the currentvulnerability of their sector fromflooding. A summary of the findings,produced as Sector resilience plans(Cabinet Office, 2010a), waspublished in March 2010, two yearsafter being recommended in The PittReview: learning lessons from the2007 floods (Cabinet Office, 2008).The Cabinet Office have alsopublished Interim guidance for theeconomic regulated sectors (CabinetOffice 2010b), identifyingconsiderations for industry on howthey may be able to supportresilience building.

There are also several other cross-government initiatives that relate tothe resilience agenda, none more sothan the Climate Change Adaptationprogramme. This programme isbringing about a transition inadaptation, and so resilience, toclimate change through therequirement for formal reportingunder the Climate Change Act 2008.This will require a significant culturalchange for most infrastructure assetowner organisations.

Emergency service personnel attend the flooded Castlemeads power station, Gloucester

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Resilience to flooding

A cultural change is alreadyunderway, which should improve theresilience of new-built infrastructureto flooding. This is by the setting upof Infrastructure UK and theInfrastructure Planning Commission,the latter suitably chaired by SirMichael Pitt, author of the review ofthe summer 2007 floods (CabinetOffice, 2008). Linking with existingplanning guidance we can beconfident that the new generation ofinfrastructure projects willincorporate appropriate levels offlood resilience.

However, the implementation of floodresistance and resilience measuresis most challenging, when appliedretrospectively to existing stocks oflegacy infrastructure in the UK. Theexisting regulatory context is highlycomplex and is further complicatedby different sectors having differingplanning and investment periods. Arecent CIRIA publication, Floodresilience and resistance for criticalinfrastructure (McBain et al, 2010),presents an evidence base of thework that has been undertaken todate to improve the flood resilienceof the UK’s critical infrastructureasset stock. The publication issupported by case studies on currentflood risk management approachesand investment prioritisation forcritical infrastructure, from bothwithin the UK and internationally.

Building in resilience for anuncertain future

The most effective way to build inresilience is for improvementmeasures to be included as anintegral part of individualorganisations’ business continuitymanagement processes, whole-lifeasset management plans and climatechange adaptation strategies.

Co-ordination of collective individualeffort and prioritisation of the overallspend on resilience measures in theUK could be supported by theadoption of a National InfrastructureBank, as proposed by the Institutionof Civil Engineers in May 2009 (NewCivil Engineer, 2009). This is likely tobe a topic of discussion in the leadup to the forthcoming generalelection. The idea of a NationalInfrastructure Bank would be toleverage public funds with privatecapital. This approach will beessential if the UK is to progress withthe implementation of increasedresilience for our criticalinfrastructure in the currenteconomic climate.

In December 2009 Hilary Benn MPand Secretary of State forEnvironment, Food and Rural Affairs

called on the engineering sector tolead the design and build of a“climate change resilient Britain”(Defra, 2009). With climate changecomes an increased level ofuncertainty. This then adds a furtherdimension to sustainableconstruction, requiring a project tonot only satisfy economic, social andenvironmental requirements, butalso to be adaptable to take accountof different future conditions thatmay exist over the considerablelifetime of such infrastructure.

The first step required will be thedevelopment of a common approachfor all involved. Through the inceptionof cross-government initiatives onclimate change adaptation andcritical infrastructure resilience wemay see the development of aclimate change resilient Britain.

References

CABINET OFFICE (2008) The Pitt Review: learning lessons from the 2007 floods. Go to:www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

CABINET OFFICE (2009) Strategic framework and policy statement. Go to:www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

CABINET OFFICE (2010a) Sector resilience plans. Go to: www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

CABINET OFFICE (2010b) Interim guidance for the economic regulated sectors. Go to:www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

DEFRA (2009) Hilary Benn calls on engineering sector to lead the design and build of aclimate change resilient Britain. Ref 281/09. Go to: www.defra.gov.uk

MCBAIN, W, WILKES, D and RETTER, M (2010) Flood resilience and resistance for criticalinfrastructure. C688, CIRIA, London (ISBN: 978-086017-688-6). Go to:www.ciria.org/service/c688

NCE (2009) ICE calls for national infrastructure bank. Go to: www.nce.co.uk

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50 years of engagingwith industry

CERC was set up in 1960 with aCouncil including the Institution ofCivil Engineers, the Federation ofCivil Engineering Contractors, theAssociation of Consulting Engineersand the Department of Scientific andIndustrial Research. Advisorycommittees – the forerunners of thecurrent advisory panels – were put inplace to provide access to specialistindustrial knowledge.

By 1963, 15 projects were underwayand CERC produced its firstpublication Interim Research Report 1Research into the design of archdams. The price was 10/-. In 1968,CIRIA produced its first TechnicalNote Factors influencing the erosionof concrete by cavitation (TN1) formembers only.

Towards the end of the 1960s theUnderwater Engineering Group (UEG)was formed. Reports produced by theUEG are still being sold by Amazon.

CIRIA became recognised as a bridgebetween research and practice,leading to collaboration with otherresearchers and industryassociations. In 1974 theDepartment of the Environmentplaced a contract with CIRIA to lead amajor co-operative programme onR&D into piling problems. Theguidance produced became anindustry standard for the next 25years.

“I sat on CIRIA’s GeotechnicalAdvisory Board in the early 1970swhen we suggested that CIRIAshould focus on producingpractical guidance. I was not theonly voice expressing this view –but how right it has proved! Theguides CIRIA produces areexcellent.”

John Burland, Emeritus Professor andSenior Research Investigator,

Imperial College, London

“Arup and CIRIA have collaboratedclosely on numerous projects.CIRIA doesn’t just engage keystakeholders, but gets them toparticipate actively in research.Our recent work together on theflood resilience of the UK’s criticalinfrastructure is a great exampleof the value added by CIRIA’s trulycollaborative approach.”

Will McBain, Associate, Arup

At the start of the 1980s CIRIAorganised a national forum on qualityassurance in construction, leading toa suite of publications and a video onthis important new topic.

Trenching practice was published tohelp improve safe design andworking. The guide is still in print.

Work began on Scope for control ofurban runoff – the start of CIRIA’sinfluential work on sustainable urbandrainage. Also in the 1980s, CIRIAran projects on the use of vegetationin civil engineering, protection of riverand canal banks and the design ofreinforced grass waterways –marking the start of a programme ofactivities relating to biodiversity inbuildings and infrastructure.

CIRIA also began an internationalcollaborative project on quarried rockslope protection.

“BAM Nuttall is very proud to be along standing CIRIA member. Weare currently involved in CIRIA’swork on sustainable procurement,lean construction andenvironmental good practice.

Our staff place enormous valueon CIRIA guides and thenetworking opportunitiespresented by CIRIA events.”

Derek Ross, Director Business Processand Sustainability, BAM Nuttall Ltd

1960sCivil Engineering Research Council(CERC) formed to raise money fromindustry and plan research. In 1967the name is changed to CIRIAreflecting a broader constructionremit

1970sCIRIA’s committee structurereorganised to focus on membershipand research management. Thesuccessful model of collaborationwith specialists was born. CIRIANews introduced

1980sNew formats and media for CIRIApublications, including a video onQuality assurance in constructionand the first site guide Setting-outprocedures. The guide was designedto fit in a donkey jacket pocket

When the constructioncommunity supports anindependent researchassociation for 50 years,it’s a sure sign of a goodthing. Here’s a quick tour ofsome of the highlights ofCIRIA’s past, present andfuture – in our own words,and in the words of someof our stakeholders.

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CIRIA’s Building on derelict land waspublished, leading to a suite ofguidance on contaminated land. TheSite safety handbook was publishedin 1992, adding to the successfulsite guide series. Other best sellingpublications launched in the 1990swere the first Beach managementmanual and further publications onSuDS.

“If you were to ask anyoneinvolved in the remediation ofcontaminated land in the UKabout valuable publications, theywould almost certainly nameCIRIA’s publications. I value myrelationship with CIRIA. It is aprivilege to participate in thepreparation of CIRIA guides.”

Valerie Fogleman, Consultant,Stevens & Bolton LLP and

Professor of Law, Cardiff University

CIRIA made its first moves intotraining with the launch of a CDMtraining pack for designers -- the firstof several such publications.

“Balfour Beatty Civil Engineeringhas been a CIRIA member formany years. We actively encourageour young professionals to use theCIRIA website for practicalsolutions to site problems and forCPD.”

John Hodgkins, Head of Technicaland Engineering Development,

Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering

The contaminated land programmetook a step forward in 2002 with theestablishment of the Local AuthorityContaminated Land (LACL) network.

In 2005 Environmental goodpractice on site was launched. Thehandbook is CIRIA’s best sellingpublication. A third edition will belaunched in 2010.

“HSE has worked closely withCIRIA on many projects. Webenefit from contributing toinformative, authoritative guidesthat are widely used by industry.For example, the UXO guide is onethat HSE could never haveproduced in on its own.”

Donald Lamont, HM Principal SpecialistInspector, Health and Safety Executive

Also in this decade CIRIA won aconsortium bid to set up the ScottishConstruction Centre and published asecond edition of The Rock manual –an example of internationalcollaboration. Other publicationsincluded Unexploded ordnance(UXO).

“Crossrail has collaboratedsuccessfully with CIRIA on therecent UXO project. Ourdiscussions led to expansion ofthe report brief to cover the risk toconstruction of UXOs.”

Rob Paris, Head of Planning, Environment and Transport,

Crossrail Ltd

CIRIA was established as an industryresearch and informationorganisation developing andchampioning performanceimprovement across all areas of theconstruction industry and builtenvironment. It has remained true toits origins, and in 2010 we are stilldelivering a broad programme ofresearch projects, networks,publications, training and events.

The need for collaborative researchcontinues to grow. Economicpressures demand ever moreefficient solutions, and policy andregulatory pressures drive towardsmore sustainable, low carbon,solutions. The increasing pace ofchange in technology, materials andprocesses creates an increasingarray of new opportunities.

CIRIA will remain an independentand impartial organisation that isguided by its members and seniorfigures from a wide range of industrystakeholders. We will continue tomaintain and develop our activitiesto reflect the increasingly demandingrequirements placed on the builtenvironment. We will also continue todevelop and apply new approachesand technology to help support bothcollaboration and promotion ofbusiness and delivery improvement.

The future holds significantchallenges. I have no doubt thatCIRIA’s members and supporters willwork together to meet thosechallenges.

1990sCIRIA Core Programme launched in1991, closely followed by twonetworks: the CIEF and the CPN.CIRIA’s first corporate websitelaunched

2000sCIRIA training launched to helpindustry implement guidance. After37 years in Westminster, CIRIAmoved to offices in Old Street

The futureChief Executive Bill Healy sets out hisvision for CIRIA’s future. The focuscontinues on independence,collaboration, membership andengagement with industry

www.ciria.org 12

Environmental projects getthe thumbs upPhilip Charles discussesthe CEEQUAL Schemeassessing theenvironmental and socialperformance of civilengineering and publicrealm projectsCivil engineering and public realmprojects are vital to supporting theindustrial, economic and societalfabric of the UK. However, how canyou ensure such projects performwell from environmental and socialviewpoints?

Since its inception 10 years ago,CEEQUAL has become the acceptedUK industry assessment scheme formajor civil engineering clients,designers and contractors, beingapplied to over £13bn worth ofprojects. CEEQUAL is the assessmentand awards scheme for improvingsustainability in civil engineering andthe public realm.

CEEQUAL aims to deliver improvedproject specification, design andconstruction by acknowledgingcommitment to go beyond minimumlegal and environmentalrequirements. Project teamsundertake a verified, self-assessmentprocess for their projects, whichinvolves considering 12 areas:

� overarching project management� environmental issues: use of

water, energy and carbon, land-use, ecology, landscape, noiseand dust, cultural heritage, wasteminimisation and management

� social issues: effects onneighbours and communityrelations.

Becoming a CEEQUAL assessorinvolves attending a training course.The course equips assessors withthe skill to assess projects againstthe questions set out in the CEEQUALmanual. Assessment scores arebased on supporting evidence (egsite environmental managementplan) rather than assertion.Submitted project assessments arethen independently verified before aformal award being presented to theproject team.

Several award types can be appliedfor, depending on which members ofthe project team agree to be involved:

� whole project award – client,designer and principalcontractor(s)

� design award – principaldesigner(s)

� construction award – principalcontractor(s)

� design and build award for designand build and other partnershipcontracts

� client and design award.

For the type of award selected, thereare four possible levels ofachievement based on the degree towhich minimum requirements havebeen exceeded:

� exceeded by 25% – pass� exceeded by 40% – good� exceeded by 60% – very good� exceeded by 75% – excellent

(with the actual score being givenon the award certificate).

CEEQUAL realises that althoughconcern for environmental and socialperformance on civil engineeringprojects remains high, there isincreasing focus on sustainabilityand sustainable development.

In response, CEEQUAL has beenworking to set the scheme within thiscontext and to assist potentialapplicants to connect CEEQUAL totheir own sustainability-driven policies.

Currently, CEEQUAL is not a fullsustainability assessment tool as itdoes not assess a project client’sfinancial decisions, the socialacceptability of the project, or thewisdom of planning authorities inallowing projects to proceed.However, it acts as a significantinfluence for project teams and theirdecisions, enabling improvements tothe sustainability of civil engineeringand public realm projects.

CEEQUAL can be applied to a widevariety of projects (eg roads, railways,airports, coast and river works, watersupply and wastewater treatment,and power stations). It has beenapplied to projects of varying scales,ranging from less than £75 000 to£3bn and beyond as illustrated in thefollowing case study.

Taking this into account, participantsin a CEEQUAL assessment report arange of benefits from usingCEEQUAL as a driver for

Case study: Moneymore floodprotection scheme

Moneymore is a small village locatedon the outskirts of Magherafelt inCounty Londonderry, Northern Ireland.Within the village there are two housingdevelopments that are bordered by theColtrim and Ballymully Rivers. Throughrecent years the Ballymully River hasovertopped its banks on severaloccasions during periods of prolongedand heavy rainfall. This, combined withupstream runoff from Slieve Gallion,poses the potential risk of seriousflooding to some 100 dwellings.

Project achievements included:

� substantial energy savings throughboth material choice andconstruction methods adopted

� all 1500 tonnes of rock armourused for toe protection wasrecycled material

� all felled trees were logged andstacked along the river-banks oncompletion to create habitats forinvertebrates

� all plant and equipment used bio-degradable oils in case ofaccidental spillages

� 98 per cent of inert and non-hazardous waste material was sentfor recovery in a waste to energyplant

� all labour, sub-contractors andmaterial suppliers were sourcedwithin an 18 mile radius tominimise the carbon footprint ofthe site

� extensive silt control mechanismswere installed within the river toprevent migration of siltdownstream while installing the toeprotection and fishery measures.

www.ciria.org 13

Type of awardConstruction-only award

Level of achievementExcellent – 83%

Project team

ClientDARD Rivers Agency

DesignersDARD Rivers Agency/DAWSON-WAM Ltd

ContractorDAWSON-WAM Ltd

Further information

To find out more about CEEQUAL,please email Philip Charles at:philip.charles@ceequal.com or visit:

www.ceequal.com

CEEQUAL’s development was led bythe Institution of Civil Engineers(ICE), with support from the UKGovernment and industry, includingthe Association for Consultancy andEngineering (ACE) and the CivilEngineering Contractors Association(CECA). CEEQUAL is co-managed byCIRIA and Crane Environmental.

Moneymore flood protection scheme

improvement and having theirproject assessed including:

� building reputation and good PRincluding delivery of theorganisations’ environmental,sustainability and/or corporatesocial responsibility policies.

� improvements to projects andbest practice, ranging fromwhole-life costing, wasteminimisation, resource efficiency(materials, water, energy), toreducing complaints andenvironmental incidents

� demonstrating commitment tothe environmental agenda toclients, within the team and theorganisations involved, and to theindustry as a whole

� improved team spirit bydeveloping a positive “we mustscore well here” attitude andrewarding teams that have gonethe extra mile.

Since its launch, the cumulativevalue of projects that have or arebeing assessed using CEEQUALexceeds £13bn.

www.ciria.org 14

Stuart Alexander anIndependent Consultantdiscusses the issues thatcause havoc with designer/client relationships andclaims against insurance

Introduction

Getting “design for movement” rightshould be of concern to all seniordesign managers to reduce the riskof problems arising later on.

Most of the emphasis in structuralcodes of practice and teachingmaterial is on design for axial load,bending movement and shear force.However, the most commonproblems in practice are different:excessive deflection, unsightlycracking, leaks in basements anddifferential settlement. Also, whilethe understanding of topics such ascrack widths and tension stiffening inconcrete has improved, defects andfailures arising from movement stillregularly occur.

It is tempting to categorise all theseshortfalls as serviceability failures,but failure to appreciate the power oftemperature fluctuations appears tohave triggered the collapse of theterminal roof at Charles de Gaulleairport in 2004, which killed sixpeople (see Box 2). This was one ofthe most newsworthy constructionincidents of the decade, and servesto underline the importance ofmovement as an integral aspect ofstructural engineering.

CIRIA’s Design for movement inbuildings (TN107) was published in1981, and has proved remarkablydurable. But the world – and theindustry – has moved on, and thisarticle discusses the topic ofmovement and identifies changes anddevelopments over the past 30 years.

Movement in buildings –time for an update?

Often, accommodating movementcan affect basic design concepts.Multi-storey car parks areparticularly susceptible to thisproblem (see Box 3).

There are six principal sources ofmovement:

1 Temperature and radiationeffects.

2 Elastic and creep deformation.3 Shrinkage and moisture

movement.4 Early-age thermal contractions in

concrete.5 Foundation movement.6 Dynamic movement.

Occasionally, these can lead toabsolute deflections of a structure,but more often they lead to relativemovement between different parts ofa building, structural elements andother building elements. Unpredictedcombinations of these movementscan lead to serious damage. Theoverall philosophy of design formovement may be expressed in thefollowing stages:

� assess the potential forunrestrained movements,combining different types andtime-scales of movement asappropriate

� evaluate the restraints tofreedom of movement, in eachcase estimating the final balancebetween restraining forces andnet movement

� decide whether the restrainingforces (in conjunction with otherco-acting forces) and netmovements are acceptable

� come to an acceptable solutionby reducing the movements,modifying the elements or formto accept greater movementjoints, or introduce movementjoints.

Movement in perspective

There are many examples of largebuildings where there is no apparentprovision for movement and yet theydo not appear to exhibit anyproblems. There are three mainreasons for this:

1 The buildings often use massiveconstruction with high thermalinertia so that the internaltemperature is fairly constantand large thermal movements donot occur.

2 They are constructed of, or atleast jointed with relatively softmaterials so that movements arespread imperceptibly over manypoints.

3 Traditional materials (brick,stone, concrete, mortar andsteel) all expand in similarpredictable ways, whereas woodhas been detailed to allowdifferential movement.

An example of a traditional buildingthat has suffered severe differentialsettlement is the Tower of Pisa (seeBox 1), which has survivedremarkably well. However asbuildings have departed fromtraditional patterns they havebecome lighter and more vulnerableto temperature variations,structurally more flexible often withindependent skeletal frame andcladding, and comprise a range ofdifferent material that exhibitdifferent temperature and loadingbehaviours. The design of manymodern buildings has to takeaccount of movements as well asforces and stresses.

Examples of relative movementinclude an exposed parapet wallmoving relative to an insulated roof,or non-loadbearing brickwork beingsqueezed by creep-shortening ofloadbearing concrete columns.

www.ciria.org 15

30 years experience

While TN107 was published 30 yearsago, it is still a highly relevantdocument. However, although thecontents in this article may notsurprise any structural engineers,frequently problems still occur. CIRIArecently undertook a review of thedocument identifying the main areasrequiring updating. The followingsections introduce some of theidentified changes in practice sinceTN107 was published.

The most dramatic change over thisperiod is the way designers nowspend a high proportion of their timeacross most design activities usingcomputer software. The automaticgeneration of results that appear toproduce a high degree of accuracy ishowever spurious, and the topic ofmovements remains one wherechecking by hand calculations andmaking estimates is still needed.

The transition from British codes ofpractice to Eurocodes is more recent.Eurocodes contain considerablymore data than the British codes (forexample, thermal actions are nowcovered), but they are presented in amore computer-orientated way andomit much of the general guidancethat appeared in British codes. Sothere is likely to be a greater needthan before for the type of knowledgeand background guidance tosupplement direct experience.

In building construction, all elementsbut particularly cladding andpartitions have got lighter andgenerally more flexible. Also,sustainability targets areencouraging further economy inmaterial content, the use of by-products with lower embodiedenergy, and major reductions inenergy consumption.

Building design has become morecomplex and the number of differentprofessions and experts involved hasmultiplied. It is important tocommunicate decisions on designingfor movement between disciplines sothat, for example, the claddingdesigner knows what deflection thefixings will need to accommodate.Also, these issues will need toinclude appropriate factors of safetyto take account of variability inmaterial properties andenvironmental factors.

View of Terminal 2E after the roof collapsed at Charles de Gaulle airport, Paris

Box 1: Tower of Pisa

High and differential settlements ofthe soft clays have affected thismasonry structure. So far it hassurvived intact despite some of theolder interventions not being helpful.

Box 3: Multi-storey car parks

Some modern reinforced concrete carparks have experienced unsightlycracking due to shrinkage of theconcrete and thermal effects.

Typical movement cracks in a car park column

Box 2: Charles de Gaulle airport terminal

The reason for the collapse of a new passenger walkway structure in 2004 was difficultto understand but thermal movements were implicated by forensic investigators.

(source New Civil Engineer, Article 1, April 2005)

Summary

Following its review, CIRIA isproposing to update TN107 guide.Readers interested in contributing tothe study, in particular by providingcase studies are invited to emailAlan Gilbertson, CIRIA, at:alan.gilbertson@ciria.org

Networks, events andconferences

www.ciria.org 16

� complementing CIRIA’s work inthe coastal and marine sector,CIRIA assists the EuropeanMarine Sand and Gravel Group(EMSAGG), which provides aforum for data exchange betweenresearchers, regulators, policy-makers and contractors. Incommon with the other CIRIAnetworks, EMSAGG supports thedissemination of good practiceand policy change.

Linked to CIRIA’s research andindustry activities these networksbring together innovators,practitioners and the main decisionand policy-makers helping industry torespond to changing agendas. If youwould like to participate, join orsupport any of these networksplease visit: www.ciria.org

The production of CIRIA guidance iscomplemented by the delivery ofseveral learning and businessnetworks, which cover a diverserange of topics for those working inthe construction and builtenvironment sectors.

The networks provide an engagingplatform for sharing experiences,disseminating good practice,providing opportunities to network aswell as developing contacts andvaluable business. Our two mainnetworks are the ConstructionIndustry Environmental Forum (CIEF)and the Construction ProductivityNetwork (CPN). These provide aunique opportunity for professionalsto remain at the forefront of new andcurrent good practice, as well asunderstanding the latest policy,business and technologydevelopments.

The CIEF covers topics in theenvironment and sustainability areasand has held several breakfastbriefings, site visits and seminars.For 2010, CIEF is developing itsprofile and covering issues relating togreen infrastructure, sustainableprocurement and the sustainabledelivery of the 2012 Olympics.

CPN tackles issues related toconstruction process, technology andinfrastructure, and has similarly runa variety of events. For 2010, CPN isfocusing on improving design anddelivery efficiency, skills andcompetence, and the role of theintelligent client. It also provides anopportunity to keep abreast ofadvances in the management ofinfrastructure.

Alongside these establishednetworks, we also develop and assisttheme or sector networks to respondto specific needs as newopportunities arise.

These include:

� the SAFESPUR forum, whichcomplements theSAFEGROUNDS and SD:SPURlearning networks, assists withthe development anddissemination of good practiceon contaminated landmanagement and themanagement of assets anddecommissioning wastes fromdefense and nuclear sites

� CIRIA has developed twonetworks supporting localauthorities in their functions: theLocal Authority ContaminatedLand Network (LACL), which hasbeen running since 2002 helpsofficers fulfill theirresponsibilities relating to landcontamination and theregeneration of brownfield sites.The Local Authority Network onDrainage and Flood RiskManagement (LANDF�RM)supports local authorities withthe challenges of responding toflood risk and surface watermanagement

� CIRIA’s Brownfield RiskManagement Forum (BRMF)aims to promote cross-sectorcommunication and learning forthose involved in brownfieldprojects, encourage sustainableand good practice inprocurement, and improve themanagement of risk and liability

www.ciria.org 17

Training

Supported by 50 years’ experience inproviding authoritative guidance tothe construction and builtenvironment sectors, CIRIA delivers arange of informative, accessible andengaging training courses coveringtopics from construction managementand sustainable drainage toenvironmental good practice.

Training is delivered by industryexperts and course content is basedon recognised good practice, whichis regularly reviewed by CIRIA and itsteam of trainers. This ensures thatthe information given is relevant andup-to-date as well as offeringdelegates plenty of scope forinteraction and active learning.

In-house training

CIRIA training courses can bedelivered in-house, and can be basedon existing programmes or adaptedto develop more bespoke training. Forfull details visit: www.ciria.org

Benefits of in-house training

� CIRIA comes to you� save on time and cost� flexible course times� better interaction and effective

learning� helping personal development� greater relevance to your

organisation.

Forthcoming in 2010

Environment good practice onsite

26 May, London

24 June, Manchester

September, London

Resource use and wastemanagement

15 June, London

SuDS foundation

9 July, London

September, Belfast

September, Bristol

Designing SuDS

22–23 July, London

September, Belfast

September, Bristol

Working with wildlife

15 July 2010, London

Events and conferences

CIRIA events, conferences andnetworks provide a highly effectivemeans to communicate andgenerate new ideas and approachesas well as business to businessopportunities. The eventsprogramme delivers over 120 eventseach year attracting some 3000delegates. The programme includesconferences, workshops and goodpractice seminars. Full details of ourforthcoming programme areavailable on the CIRIA website.

In May, the SD:SPUR learningnetwork will hold a case study drivenevent: Materials management innuclear decommissioning –challenges and opportunities. Thisevent will provide a platform toshowcase up-to-date industry casestudies on sharing good practice,exploring challenges andopportunities in materialmanagement, and lessons learntfrom within the nucleardecommissioning industry, the non-nuclear sector, regulators, localauthorities, NGO’s and othercommunity based organisations.

The second World Green RoofCongress (WGRC) Green roofs for achanging climate in (see page 7)brings together leading green roofexperts from across the world,providing a platform forcommunicating the latest casestudies, research and policyinitiatives. The focus will be on theirapplication and delivery coveringaspects such as climate changeadaptation, stormwatermanagement, biodiversity, and thepotential for a higher quality of urbanliving, within a challenging regulatoryand competitive financial framework.

To find out more on how to getinvolved or to book visit: www.ciria.org To find out more about CIRIA training

and to book please visit: www.ciria.org

www.ciria.org 18

WaND Guidance on water cyclemanagement for new developments(C690)

This publication provides guidanceon how to achieve improvedsustainable water cycle managementin new developments. This documentprovides practitioners with animproved understanding of the toolsand techniques necessary forachieving, delivering and adoptingsustainable water cycle managementin new developments.

Price: £60 (£30)ISBN 978-0-86017-690-9

Also due to be published in 2010

Culvert design and operation guide(C689)

This guide replaces CIRIA’s Culvertdesign manual (R168) published in1997. It adopts a whole-life approachto the design and operation ofculverts, with a focus on assetmanagement, reflecting thesignificant changes that haveoccurred in the field over the last 10to 15 years.

This is a comprehensive guidecovering a wide range of subjectmatter relevant to the design andoperation of culverts. Users can readthe guide in its entirety or dip in andout of sections that are the mostrelevant to their needs. Inevitablythere is some repetition but this is toreduce the risk of users missing vitalinformation by selective reading.

Price: £120 (£60)ISBN 978-0-86017-689-3

The Concrete Manual (C674)

Concrete is a highly versatileconstruction material. It is cost-effective and a relatively smallcontributor to greenhouse gasemissions – with the potential toincreasingly make use of recycledmaterials and low carbontechnologies in the future.

This good practice guide for use inmaritime engineering builds oncurrent information combined withnew material authored bycontributors from HR Wallingford,Halcrow and CETMEF.

This guide aims to distil conclusionsfrom existing UK, French andinternational research and practicalexperience on the use of concrete inthe marine environment.

Price: TBCISBN 978-0-86017-674-9

Forthcoming in 2010

Update of the beach managementmanual (C685)

Planning for SuDs – making ithappen (C687)

Working with wildlife update (RP915)

Environmental good practice siteguide (version 3) (RP928)

To order any of these publicationsplease visit: www.ciria.org

With more than 600 titles in thecurrent publications catalogue,CIRIA’s research has given rise to ahuge variety of publications in 2009with several planned for the first halfof 2010. Many of CIRIA’s olderpublications are still regarded as thebest available in the industry.

Recently published outputs in early2010 include three importantindustry guides:

Tunnels: condition appraisal andremedial treatment (C671)

This guide provides information onthe management, conditionappraisal, maintenance and repair ofthe structural elements of existinginfrastructure tunnels, focusingprimarily on older infrastructure andcertain tunnel types.

Price: £120 (£60)ISBN 978-0-86017-671-8

Flood resilience and resistance forcritical infrastructure (C688)

This publication provides an overviewof the regulatory framework andoutlines the main issues now facedby the industry in this area. It statesthat flood resilience measuresshould be adopted as an integralpart of individual organisations’business continuity managementprocesses, whole-life assetmanagement plans and climatechange adaptation strategies.

Price: £70 (£35)ISBN 978-0-86017-688-6

Publications

www.ciria.org 19

Getting on topof “top events”Leading industry figuresshare their viewsThe UK construction industry enjoysthe unfortunate reputation of beingone of the most dangerous to work innot least because it has the largestnumber of fatal injuries of the mainindustry groups. In 2008–2009there were 53 fatal injuries giving arate of 2.5 per 100 000 workers.This is the third highest rate of fatalinjuries, behind agriculture andextractive industries. Most incidentsaffect only one worker butoccasionally two or more may bekilled or injured by a single event.And even more infrequently amember of the public may beinvolved.

What is so remarkable in theaftermath of many of these incidentsis how often the words “luckily” or“miraculously” spring to people’s lips– a reflection that the outcome interms of on- and off-site fatalities,injuries and damage could havebeen so much worse. Incidents suchas those listed here all have thepotential to kill or injure severalpeople in a single episode:

� collapses of buildings andstructures

� major fires� underground services strikes� collapses of temporary works� collapse or overturn of large

plant such as cranes and pilingrigs.

Often it seems that luck rather thangood accident preventionmanagement minimised the numberof casualties.

Defining this type of incident is notnecessarily straightforward. Termssuch as “major hazard” or “majoraccident potential” run the risk ofassociating the construction industrywith more recognised hazardousindustries such as nuclear,chemicals and offshore. They canalso be described as “high hazard,low probability” incidents, whichgives some indication of theirunpredictability. One label that mightbe used is “top event” or: what is theworst that could happen shouldsomething go wrong?

Whatever term is used, when one ofthese (thankfully) rare events doesoccur the consequences can be farreaching. Apart from the high humancost, the financial costs can beenormous. The site might be takenover by the police and HSE for daysor weeks as evidence is collected.Time and cost will also arise from thework to make the site safe again andclear away materials and equipment.And these are often dwarfed by theimpact on project completion and, inthe long-term, damage to reputationleading to potential loss of futurebusiness.

There can also be wider implications.The public and media are muchmore exercised by single,catastrophic events, than by a steadytoll of “routine” incidents, which canlead to an outcry for something to bedone including demand for morelegislation.

Conventional risk managementapproaches might not be entirelyappropriate to the effectiveprevention of top events.Examination of lagging indicatorssuch as historical data and trendsprovides few clues as to when thenext event will occur – by their verynature they are highly unpredictableand the past provides little guaranteethat the next incident isn’t just

around the corner. However, there isa role for near miss reporting andensuring companies adopt a positiveculture of learning from near missesand incidents rather than seeking toblame those involved.

One important measure seniormanagers can use to gain greaterassurance that the potential for topevents to occur is under control isthrough the development ofmeaningful leading key performanceindicators. These can be identified bydetermining the critical elements ofthe risk control measures needed toprevent top events then devisingindicators that can provideassurance that the control measuresare working in practice. Examplesmight include gaining assurance onthe competence of staff or the rigourof design processes.

To ensure HSE and the constructionindustry has a clearer understandingof the nature of top events HSE isworking with CIRIA andLoughborough University on aresearch project designed to gaingreater insight into their nature andcauses. This will help HSE identifywhether further work is needed onthe development of appropriate riskmanagement strategies and onaction needed to deal with specifichazards. It is hoped the research willstimulate the construction industry toconsider whether they are taking theright action to minimise the potentialof top events occurring. The guidewill be published in summer 2010.

ViewpointMike Cross, Head of Construction

Engineering Specialists, Health and Safety Executive

There is a great deal of scope forindustry professionals to get involved.

For more information, please emailAlan Gilbertson, CIRIA, at:alan.gilbertson@ciria.org

membership matters...

www.ciria.org