Release of data following a serious incident in the uk construction industry

Abstract

A fundamental part of the professional engineer’s duty is to keep abreast of contemporary information that is relevant to their particular area of work. In an industry where labour input (in its widest sense) predominates, despite all our software and sophisticated construction equipment, this is essential as scope for error is ever present. The nature of the construction industry is such that catastrophic failure, with the potential for multiple fatalities and other concerns, is a plausible scenario. Hence, in order for the forensic engineer to operate, and industry generally to learn from the misfortunes of others, the requisite data from serious incidents must be made available to the industry at large, comprehensively and timeously. As things stand in the UK, it is frequently not so available. This aim, namely to learn, is distinct from apportioning blame. This paper examines why this lack of data exists, touches on the practice in some other countries, and considers what might be done to alleviate the situation.