Masonry Magazine April 1997 Page. 9
In the year 2000 a new building code system will be in place throughout the United States.
by Jeffrey H. Greenwald, P.E.
Codes Engineer,
National Concrete Masonry Association
how codes affect the masonry construction industry. This will be followed by a discussion of the current building codes and the process of changing them. Finally, the new building code model and the masonry industry's activities in response to this changing environment will be presented.
Building Codes
Impact Masonry Markets
Jurisdictions adopt building codes that are often based on one of the three model codes mentioned above. Jurisdiction may, and often do, amend the model code provisions. Additionally, jurisdictions may not be required to update their code based on new versions of the model code. In effect, the local jurisdiction has complete authority over a particular construction project. This means that the jurisdiction has control over construction materials, construction practices, and construction inspection.
Each jurisdiction enforces building code requirements and consequently, the building codes have immense impact on the building markets. Because of there importance, the masonry industry continuously monitors the code development process. When required, responses can either be proactive, to
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