ABSTRACT
Dr Chapman referred to the uncertainties concerning the durability of marine structures due to fatigue, the environmental conditions, undetectable defects in the materials as used and workmanship. Such structures are usually expected to perform for a defined period. He emphasized that potential problems can be overlooked in working methods which are taken for granted. Whilst the explosion in the Ronan Point flats was unforeseen, the possibility for a gas explosion existed by the presence of the gas supply, but there was no guidance available to the designer as to any necessary action for him to take. It is well known that most Middle East aggregates are unsatisfactory, but this is largely ignored in current competitive design and construction practices, which therefore overshadow design life and durability considerations.
