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CROSS: Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures

About CROSS

CROSS is the unique safety reporting scheme jointly owned by the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Since 2005, it has shared knowledge to help create a safer built environment. 

Primarily, the scheme allows professionals to confidentially report any concerns, near-misses, and safety problems they’ve noticed. These may be at any stage of a structure’s life - from design, through construction, to occupation, and until the end of its use.

These reports are anonymised, commented upon by experts, and then shared to disseminate knowledge and help prevent future safety incidents. Each report contains key learning outcomes, including some for homeowners and domestic clients, and members of the public may find them useful.  

Originally focused on structural safety, in 2021 CROSS was expanded to cover fire as well as structural safety. This was in response to the Grenfell Fire and recommendations made by Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety.

Since then, CROSS has received additional support from the Institution of Fire Engineers and now receives and processes fire safety reports in addition to those on structural safety.

Press on the individual tiles to find out more.

CROSS reports

Report 1274 details a failed basement excavation

Dangerous alteration work results in two terraced houses being demolished.

Report 1153 assesses possible impact of scaffolding on fire safety

The potential impact of scaffolding on fire safety.

Report 1088 shows how poor management led to a failed loft conversion

Poor quality design leads to failure for a small design and build contract.

Report 1001 discusses the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.

Risks associated with historic stone balconies.

Report 1063 discusses the importance of temporary works during a build.

Basement excavation under a semi-detached house causes collapse.

Report 1173 assesses the potential danger to neighbours during renovations.

Apparently simple home improvement work leads to dangerous situation.

Report 1062 focuses the failure of temporary supporting structures.

Dangerous building work on domestic project.

Report 1119 discusses the importance of qualified professionals.

Boundary retaining wall collapse.

Report 589 discusses adding loads to existing structures.

PV Panels and structural adequacy of roofs.

Report 1236 addresses the importance of qualified professionals making design changes.

'Design' for alterations to a dwelling carried out by an unsuitable person.

You can find more reports by visiting the CROSS website and searching for "residential reports". 

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