Brussels, 21/01/2004 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has recently adopted a recommendation on the building sector (Official Journal L332 of 19 December 2003, p.62 and http: //europa.eu.int/eur-lex/pri/en/oj/dat/2003/l_332/l_33220031219en00620063.pdf). In it, it calls upon Member States to make general use of a range of 56 standards known as Eurocodes, which allows building strength to be measured and thus increase their security. These standards, the application of which is voluntary, describe the rules for calculating components making up the framework of buildings (load-bearing components) and other works (bridges etc). The use of Eurocodes, based on calculations of the strength of materials, helps to increase the stability and safety of buildings, taking particular account of earthquake and fire resistance aspects. Recent disasters in various countries have shown the importance of these new tools in ensuring people's safety. In addition to safety and stability objectives, the Commission has two other goals: standardising the services market in the area of construction engineering and promoting the free movement of certain building products.