 |
|
After local adoption (probably with amendments), this is where it all starts. Currently, there are three national building code agencies and that produce model building codes:
These three organizations are currently working together (with others as well) under the auspices of an organization called the International Code Council (ICC) and have developed a single model building code called the International Building Code. The source document used for development of the seismic portions of the International Building Code is the National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program (NEHRP) Recommended Provisions for Seismic Regulations for New Buildings and Other Structures. With this document simplifying the code development process and serving as the single model building code for each agency, BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI will concentrate their individual efforts more on implementation, education and enforcement.
Independently of this effort, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced plans to write a competing model building code called NFPA 5000. Although drafts will be available sooner, a final version of NFPA 5000 is not expected until 2002.
So just when it seemed that soon we'd all have only one model building code to work, the road is forking. But there is some good news provisions in both for the design and construction of steel buildings will be similar and streamlined to the point that they will fit in about six pages. How could this be? The six pages will simply contain references to the applicable specifications, codes and standards for steel. So even though there may not be total uniformity in the model building codes, you'll still benefit from increased simplicity in steel design and construction.
Now, we all know that not every locality adopts the model building code as it's written. Actually, it may be more accurate to say just try to find one that does! Add to that degree of difficulty the variations in the actual date of the model building code that's adopted and you've probably got Excedrin headache number 5. Here are a few resources that may help you find the code that's applicable in a specific jurisdiction: