Concerns about safety in buildings are elevating ASHRAE's visibility as the public looks for knowledgeable answers and help. Examples include recent articles in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Sun-Times and major news magazines. ASHRAE President Bill Coad, P.E., Fellow/Life Member ASHRAE, says this visibility also brings new responsibilities. This point was made during the interview presented here. Coad also discusses how ASHRAE is responding to concerns about biological and chemical terrorism, and how the role of the engineer is being affected. concern, the risk factor changes from comfort to life safety.