News & Resources
With more than 140 years in business, F&R is excited to share the insights we’ve gained relating to effective strategies in code compliance, industrial hygiene, select specialty services, and many other relevant topics. We’ll help you stay informed about current regulations, significant industry trends, best practices, and F&R news.
Speaking in Code
“Speaking in Code” is a series of articles that aims to demystify various building codes and construction standards. Written by our resident code expert, Alan Tuck, these articles cover a wide range of topics, including concrete, structural steel, masonry, soils, and special inspections, breaking down complex technical language into more understandable terms. The articles often highlight crucial aspects of codes like ASTM, ACI, IBC, and AISC, emphasizing their practical implications for architects, engineers, contractors, and building officials to ensure project compliance and quality.
Practice Good Industrial Hygiene
The “Practice Good Industrial Hygiene” series offers valuable insights and guidance on maintaining safe and healthy workplace environments. These articles delve into various aspects of industrial hygiene, including understanding and controlling exposure to hazards like respirable crystalline silica and mercury, as well as general practices for preventing the spread of contaminants like viruses. F&R’s industrial hygienists share their expertise on topics such as OSHA compliance, personal monitoring, proper cleaning and disinfection protocols, and the historical and evolving landscape of occupational exposure limits, aiming to help businesses protect their employees and meet regulatory requirements.
Digging Deeper
“Digging Deeper” articles provide more in-depth explorations of various subjects related to F&R’s expertise in geotechnical engineering and environmental consulting. From articles about environmental career searches and integrating hydraulic and geologic models, to exploring the historical context of certain engineering challenges, these articles provide a more comprehensive look at specific issues.
Company Updates
The “Company Updates” section serves as a central hub for all official announcements and general updates about F&R. Here, readers can find press releases detailing new projects, significant achievements, and corporate milestones. Additionally, the section features general news covering various aspects of the firm, including community involvement, employee spotlights, industry recognition, and other relevant happenings that showcase F&R’s ongoing work and contributions.

Concrete Mix Design Code Compliance Criteria
Many project concrete mix designs submitted for use on new construction projects do not comply with the code-required acceptance criteria but are approved anyway. Why

F&R’s Larry Day Appointed to Christiansburg Planning Commission
F&R is proud to share the appointment of Larry Day, F&R Business Development Director, to the Christiansburg Town Planning Commission. Larry’s four-year term, effective July

F&R Welcomes Abby DiGennaro, Business Development Director
We are pleased to announce that Abby DiGennaro has joined F&R as our new Business Development Director in Charlotte. In her new role, Abby will

Developing a “Near-Perfect” Statement of Special Inspections
The International Building Code (IBC) requires that every new construction project have a project-specific “Statement of Special Inspections” (SSI) prepared by the registered design professional

F&R’s Lucas Powell is a 2025 Richmond’s Finest Honoree
Congratulations to F&R Environmental Scientist Lucas Powell, who was named a 2025 Richmond’s Finest Honoree by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) Virginia Chapter. This prestigious

Placement and Inspection of Rebar – CRSI is the Bible
Project contract documents for concrete reinforcing steel compliance during construction rely on criteria outlined in the CRSI (Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute) “Manual of Standard Practice”