Structural engineers understand the behavior of structures. They have knowledge about design codes, building regulations and applied loads. Structural engineers in Australia can provide advice on the strength of materials, and can specify steel, reinforced concrete, masonry, timber or other materials. A structural engineer in Australia can also usually determine easily structural form and document structural systems. Such issues impact on the affordability, constructability, compliance with codes of practice and aesthetics of the structure. They usually act as independent consultants who are part of a collaborative effort involving the owner, other engineering disciplines, builders and architects.
A structural engineer can check the design compliance of a structure with Australian Standards and the Building Code of Australia. Most building approval authorities in Australia require an engineer to certify the structural adequacy of a project.
A structural engineer in Australia can also help to design most structures including houses, theatres, sports venues, hospitals, office blocks, bridges, oil rigs, space satellites, ships and aircrafts. They work in close partnership with architects. Structural engineers also have to choose appropriate materials, such as bricks, concrete, wood and metal, to meet design specifications. They also examine existing buildings and other structures to test if they are structurally sound and still fit for purpose. Furthermore, a structural engineer in Australia has to make efficient use of funds and materials in order to achieve structural goals. Tasks may vary depending on the structure being worked on and size of the team, but typically include:
• analyzing configurations of the basic structural components of a building or other structure;
• calculating the pressures, stresses and strains that each component, such as a beam or lintel, will experience from other parts of the structure due to human use or environmental pressures such as weather or earthquakes;
• considering the strength of various materials, e.g. timber, concrete, steel and brick, to see how their inclusion may necessitate a change of structural design;
• liaising with other designers, including architects, to agree on safe designs and their fit with the aesthetic concept of the construction;
• examining structures at risk of collapse and advising how to improve their structural integrity, such as recommending removal or repair of defective parts or rebuilding the entire structure;
Building Engineers are responsible for heading construction crews. Their work role requires a mix of both engineering and construction skills. Building engineers work behind the scenes when it comes to constructing buildings. They are involved in designing structures, hiring contractors, managing the budget and handling the building schedule. Building engineers must also be up to date with codes and by-laws. Part of their role is to make sure the work site is in compliance with local ordinances and laws. Building engineers are also concerned with safety at the work site and must have strong communication skills since they convey information to construction workers and architects both verbally and in writing.
A building engineer is a professional who designs, constructs, evaluates and/or maintains buildings whose work includes both technical and management processes by which buildings are designed, constructed, renewed and maintained.
Building Engineers also provide professional services in:
• Design and preparation of plans
• Remedial works
• Site inspections and certification of works
• The repair and maintenance of buildings
• Energy auditing and energy performance certificates
• Measured survey of land and buildings
• Advice on energy-saving designs
• Access audits
• Rehabilitation of properties
• Construction management
• Quantity surveying
• Fire safety and health and safety
• Demolition
• Negotiating, obtaining and implementing grants and claims
• Building variations
• Building inspections and surveys
• Advice on building law/party wall issues
• making drawings, specifications and computer models of structures for building contractors
Structural Engineer Australia
