Developing and adopting the structural Eurocodes

After some 40 years of activity the structural Eurocodes are now a reality throughout Europe, where they form the replacement for all national codes relating to structural design. Something of their history – especially the processes used to secure their production – is reported herein. Attention is also given to the consequences for the structural engineering community in terms of needing to change some of its practices, to master some new skills and to expect to enjoy at least the level of support associated with the previous design environment based on their national codes. The need to recognise, to plan for and to support the transition is emphasised, and illustrations of the varying nature of that support are provided.