AbstractAn overview of methods of blast load quantification and aspects of building design intended to reduce the damaging effects of explosions by increasing robustness is presented. Possible blast loading scenarios range from simple free‐air bursts, loading essentially isolated buildings, to complex urban environments, with road junctions and side streets, etc., where buildings have varying amounts of frangible facade. The blast loads resulting in these scenarios are radically different, with different aspects of the pressure load dominating the type and extent of building damage. Means of calculating these time‐varying pressure loads are described.Achieving stand‐off between a vulnerable building and the source of an explosion is the single most important factor in reducing the blast load experienced by the building. Methods of achieving stand‐off in building design are discussed. The creation of adequate stand‐off may often not be possible, and the need for robust glazing systems is also essential if blast is to be keep out of buildings and contamination of the work‐place by broken glass is to be prevented. The use of laminated glass, anti‐shatter film and other measures is discussed.Existing buildings pose particular problems to engineers concerned with their protection. Several methods of strengthening or increasing the effective mass of existing buildings are described.