Bolted connections are one of the most common points of root‑cause failure in steel structures. Although the overall strength and reliability of a steel structure depend heavily on the performance of its connections, these critical details are often treated as secondary and may receive limited attention during design. 

Lithium ion batteries power everything from everyday electronics to e bikes, electric vehicles, and large scale energy storage systems, but with their increasing use comes a growing fire risk. In this webinar, mechanical engineer and forensic expert David Reid Rowland draws on two decades of investigative experience to demystify how lithium ion batteries work, why they fail, and what makes their fires so destructive and difficult to extinguish.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of:

– Thermal runaway
– The influence of battery chemistry and design
– Common causes of failure (from manufacturing defects to improper charging)
– The challenges firefighters and investigators face when these high energy systems ignite

The session also explores real world examples involving consumer products, marine cargo, and electric vehicles, highlighting the importance of effective regulation, protective systems, and safe handling practices.

John Evans, Senior Planner and Delay Analyst at A. Lamb Associates, will present An Introduction to Delay Analysis. This session will explore the essential information required to carry out a thorough delay analysis and provide an overview of the key methodologies outlined in the Society of Construction Law Delay and Disruption Protocol (2nd Edition, February 2017).

John will also discuss programme expectations within UK contracts and touch on the role of programming software in supporting accurate analysis.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the principles behind delay analysis and the practical considerations involved in applying these techniques in real-world projects.

Understanding the root cause of such incidents is critical for accurately determining liability and, ultimately, claim outcomes.

Join Civil Engineer Jane Cook for insights into failure mechanisms, investigative methodologies, and lessons learned from real-world examples.

In this webinar, Alan Harper, Associate Director at Morham + Brotchie Partnership, will explore why underinsurance remains such a widespread issue and the serious implications it can have for property owners and insurers alike. 

Subsea power cables are the backbone of offshore wind energy, yet their failure can have far-reaching consequences. 

In this presentation, Subsea cable expert, Hugh Martindale will explore the growing demand for offshore wind and the critical role of subsea power cables in supporting this expansion. He will examine the significant consequences of cable failure—such as property damage, business interruption, and the logistical challenges of repair and replacement—and provide a detailed overview of common failure modes, from mechanical damage and environmental stress to manufacturing and installation issues.

Hugh will conclude by outlining industry efforts to reduce these risks through improved design standards, advanced monitoring technologies, and collaborative data sharing. Attendees will gain valuable insight into forensic investigation of cable failures, insurance implications, and proactive measures to enhance reliability and resilience in offshore energy infrastructure.