The crucial role of specification writing has been so severely downgraded that it is undermining building designs, according to David Fitzpatrick*.

Newcastle University’s multi-award winning Urban Sciences Building (USB) is testament to a combination of advanced engineering, innovative design and energy efficient construction, which are being used for the benefit of the building’s occupants, as much as they are for the environment.

David Mowatt explains why the Smoke Control Association believes that now is the time to change how Building Regulations deal with fire safety, particularly when it comes to controlling the biggest killer – smoke.

Andy Bartlett explains why motorised fire dampers should be regarded as a key part of fire safety systems in buildings, and what the latest technology has to offer.

The culture change called for by the building regulations review following the Grenfell Tower tragedy is already driving demand for more rigorous fire safety testing, according to Andrew Collard