Building failures are topic of new forensics handbook

Real Estate Weekly, Jan 10, 2001

Antranig M. Ouzoonian, P.E., a principal of Weidlinger Associates Inc., and Joseph Zelazny, C.E., president of Kreisler Borg Florman Construction Company, have written the first chapter of "The Forensic Structural Engineering Handbook."

Their work provides the experienced engineer a refresher account of the design and construction process and reviews the responsibilities of the design disciplines of the project. The book, edited by Robert T. Ratay, includes numerous detailed procedures and provides a meticulous framework from which to conduct a comprehensive, indepth investigation.

Weidlinger Associates was one of the first forensic engineers called in to investigate the roof collapses at the Hartford Civic Center, the Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Hyatt Regency structure in Kansas City and the C.W. Post College domed auditorium wherein Ouzoonian has taken an active roll in the investigations.

Structural failures happen and much like detectives on a crime scene, the role of forensic engineers is to methodically review every aspect of the case examming every clue and witness and to arrive at the cause of the problem. These specialized structural engineers observe present conditions, interview parties involved and examine all aspects of evidence including construction drawings, reports and test results.

The Forensic Structural Engineering Handbook, published by McGraw-Hill Companies, is available for $89.95.