In recent years the refractories industry has undergone significant change. The role of the consultant has also changed in step with market requirements. Although the consultant still provides the same expert services as before, for example: forensic analysis of failures, help with selection of materials, advice on installation, he has found some new roles. Amongst these new roles is that of trainer and adviser on OHS. Many of the changes in the industry, caused by the repeated 're-engineering' of companies, have resulted in a severe lack of refractories experience/ expertise within individual organisations, both user and even supplier. This is evident in both the trade and professional areas. More reliance is now placed on outside resources. The consultant is now often required to fill these gaps, not only in providing his expertise on a project basis, but also, to be prepared to pass on some of his expertise into the user's organisation, by the provision of tailored training courses, and mentoring of younger engineers.
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