Profound and fundamental changes in our method of design and construction will come about as a result of the attacks on America on Sept. 11, 2001.

One of many changes that will be incorporated in our thinking relates to the height of buildings as it pertains to the possible necessity for quick evacuation. This will also affect the design of buildings with regard to the number of stairs and the width of stairs that are used.

Another fundamental change that is to be expected is the provision for prevention of chemical and bacteriological attacks on the outside and in the inside of our buildings. Steps must be taken, such as the location of air intakes out of reach of anyone unauthorized, the method of pressurizing the air conditioning and ventilation systems of parts of the building and the isolation of various parts of the building so that they can be cut off in the event of such an attack.

The application of these solutions and other solutions will make our industry and our buildings safer and more able to cope with those individuals and groups that may be attempting to destroy us.

Robert Borg
Chairman
Kreisler Borg Florman, Scarsdale, N.Y.

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