Engineering hoaxes
In this lift in the Marriott Hotel in Guam, there is no button for the 13th floor. |
This article presents a list of construction industry traditions, superstitions, pseudoscience, obsolete scientific theories and supernatural occurrences associated with engineering.
Some of the concepts have been superseded by modern research. Others have been discredited based on further investigation, lack of repeatable scientific evidence or inability to provide logical proof. Despite this, some of these methods continue to be used by practitioners who believe in their effectiveness or embrace their theories.
- Broken ceramic statues (in Ancient Rome).
- Calling of an engineer ritual.
- Coins in mortar (dated the year construction began).
- Concealed shoes.
- Cornerstone rites.
- Crop circles.
- Dowsing.
- Feng shui.
- Foundation sacrifices (or ritual offerings).
- Ley lines.
- Mandala.
- Miasma theory.
- Religious building orientation.
- Rule of thumb.
- Pannenbier.
- Tetraphobia.
- Topping off or topping out.
- Triskaidekaphobia.
- Vastu Shastra.
- Walking under ladders.
- Witchmarks in timber (or witch posts).
See also:
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.