Who Regulates Structural Engineers and What Are the Requirements?

Structural engineering is a highly regulated profession, with different requirements depending on the jurisdiction. In the United States, the practice of professional engineering is strictly controlled and the title of professional engineer is legally protected. Provincial and territorial governments in Canada have delegated their constitutional authority to regulate engineers and engineering to professional licensing bodies that are maintained and governed by the profession, creating a system of self-regulation. In the United Kingdom, the Institution of Structural Engineers is governed by the Royal Charter, statutes, regulations and standing orders. To become a structural engineer, one must obtain a degree in engineering from an accredited university or college.

After graduating, they must pass a licensing exam administered by their respective state or province. In some cases, they may also need to register with the local building authority. For instance, in Ontario, engineers must be licensed by the Professional Engineers Act. Structural engineers work on a wide range of structures, including buildings, bridges, oil platforms, ships and airplanes. They are responsible for providing a technical structural design that guarantees the stability and security of the overall structure.

In some cases, they may also need to adhere to building codes. In order to ensure that structural engineers are qualified to practice their profession, they must adhere to certain standards set by their respective governing bodies. These standards include ethical conduct, professional development and continuing education. Additionally, structural engineers must maintain their license by completing continuing education courses. The regulation of engineering practice is carried out by individual states in the United States and by autonomous professional licensing bodies in Canada. In both countries, engineers are subject to regulation by these bodies and must adhere to certain standards in order to maintain their license.

By ensuring that structural engineers are qualified and adhere to certain standards, these governing bodies help protect public safety.