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. Stay informed about current regulations, significant industry trends, best practices, and F&R news below.
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.

Steel Plant Fabricator Approval and IBC Section 1704.2.5.1
Before you read this one-page BLAST about steel fabricator approval, please read the International Building Code (IBC) Section 1704.2.5.1 at the bottom of the page.

Things You Ought to Know About the Building Official
A recent project, which was about 50% complete and had a fair degree of discrepancies, had a serious approved agency (special inspections) reporting problem. The

Alvin Rivera-Bermudez Joins F&R as New Safety Manager
F&R is thrilled to announce a key addition to our leadership team with Alvin Rivera-Bermudez joining us as our new Safety Manager in the Corporate

F&R Wins ACEC-VA EEA Grand Award
We are proud to share the news that F&R has been honored with a Grand Award in the American Council of Engineering Companies of Virginia

Cold-Weather Masonry – Special Inspections
Many geographic areas in the United States are subject to unpredictable weather. Masonry under construction needs to be protected from detrimental moisture intrusion and other

F&R Opens New Virginia Branch, Names Craig Melton, P.E., as Branch Manager
We’re thrilled to announce a major milestone for F&R: the opening of our newest branch location in Danville, VA! The new Danville branch marks a