Introduction to Building Codes

Building codes are legal requirements that establish minimum standards for the design, construction, and occupancy of buildings to protect public health, safety, and welfare. They evolved from catastrophic events: the Great Fire of London (1666) led to mandates for masonry construction; the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire (1911) drove modern fire egress requirements; and earthquake disasters prompted seismic design codes. In the United States, the International Building Code (IBC) serves as the model code adopted and amended by each state and municipality. Architects must know which edition of the code is locally adopted and any jurisdictional amendments that modify it.