PART7HOUSINGANDSMALLBUILDINGS

TableofContents

Page
2

7.2 Material,SystemsandEquipment

7.3

Loads

7.4

RoomandSpaceDimensions

12

7.5

Doors

15

7.6

Windows

18

7.7

Stairs,Ramps,HandrailsandGuards

20

7.8

MeansofEgress

7.9

FireProtection

35

7.10 PreparationofSite

35

7.11 WaterproofingandDampproofing

36

7.12 Drainage

7.1

General

28

36

7.13 Footingsandfoundations

37

7.14 SlabsonGround

39

7.15 Columns

41

7.16 Masonry(Bricks,BlocksorSandcrete)

43

7.17 WoodFrameConstruction

7.18 Post,BeamandPlankConstruction

53

7.19 Roofing

55

7.20 InteriorwallandCeilingFinishes

59

7.21 Flooring

47

61

7.22 PlumbingFacilities

62

7.23 Ventilation

63

7.24 ElectricalFacilities

65

PART7HOUSING,SMALLANDRURALBUILDINGS

7.1

GENERAL

7.1.1

Scope

This part applies to buildings of two (2) storeys or less in building height having a building area not
exceeding 220m2 and which are used or intended to be used for residential (Group R), business and
personal services (Group B), Mercantile (Group M) and medium and low hazard industrial occupancy
(Group S). This part applies both to site assembled and factory made buildings. Occupancy group
classificationsareasdescribedinSection3.2ofPart3ofthisCode.

7.1.2 Buildings other than those described in Subsection 7.1.1 are regulated by the appropriate
requirementsinParts2,3,5and6forthisCode.

7.1.3Whereabuildingorcomponentofabuildingisassembledoffthebuildingsiteinsuchamanner
thatitcannotbeinspectedonsite,approvedoffsiteinspectionshallbeprovided,whenrequiredbythe
authorityhavingjurisdictiontoensurecompliancewiththisCode.

7.2MATERIALS,SYSTEMSANDEQUIPMENT

7.2.1 General
7.2.1.1 Performance
Materials, systems and equipment shall possess the essential properties necessary to perform their
intendedfunctions.

7.2.1.2RequiredTests
Whenrequiredbytheauthorityhavingjurisdiction,materials,systemsorequipmentshallbetestedto
determinethesuitabilityfortheirintendeduse.

7.2.1.3 PublishedTestMethods
Except as provided in Article 7.2.1.5, the test method used to determine the suitability of materials,
systemsorequipmentshallbeonethatispublishedbyagovernmentrecognizedagency.

7.2.1.4 AssessmentofMaterials,SystemsandEquipment
Materials, systems and equipment not specifically described herein, or which vary from specific
requirementsinthisPart,orforwhichnorecognizedtestprocedurehasbeenestablished,maybeused
ifitcanbeshownthatthematerial,systemorequipmentissuitableonthebasisofpastperformanceor
goodengineeringpracticeoronthebasisoftestsdescribedinArticle7.2.1.5.

7.2.1.5 AbsenceofPublishedTestMethods
Where no published test method exists, the tests shall be designed to simulate or exceed anticipated
service conditions or shall be designed to compare the performance of the material, system or
equipmentwithsimilarmaterial,systemorequipmentthatisknowntobeacceptable.


7.2.1.6 TestingLaboratories
Every test shall be carried out by a testing laboratory acceptable to the government recognized
authorityhavingjurisdiction.

7.2.1.7 ConflictwithReferenceDocuments
When a specification or reference document listed herein contains requirements that conflict with
specificrequirementsinthisPart,therequirementsinthisPartshallgovern.

7.2.1.8 ShortlivedorOtherwiseUnsuitableMaterials
Where plans of a building show that it is proposed to use shortlived materials, the authority having
jurisdictionmay,notwithstandingthattheplansconformwiththeregulations:

(1)
(i)rejecttheplans;or
(ii)inpassingtheplans,fixaperiodontheexpirationofwhichthebuildingmustberemoved
andimposesuchreasonableconditionswhich,havingregardtothenatureofthematerialsare
appropriate.

(2)
the authority having jurisdiction may extend any period fixed if they find at the end of this
periodthattheconditionofthestructureisstillinasuitablecondition.

7.2.2Concrete

7.2.2.1 Classificationofconcretemixes
Concretemixesshallbeclassifiedasdesignedmixesorprescribedmixes.

7.2.2.1.2Designedmix
Foradesignedmix,thebuilderormanufacturershallberesponsibleforselectingthemixproportionsto
achieve the required strength and workability but an engineer shall be responsible for specifying the
minimum cement content and other properties required to ensure durability. Concrete cubes or
cylindersaretestedinparallelwiththeconstructiontocheckthemixcomplianceandconsistency.

Designedmixesshallbeinconformitywith:
(i) BSEN2061:2000Specification,performance,productionandconformity;
(ii) BS85001:2002Methodofspecifyingandguidanceforthespecifier;
(iii) BS85002:2002Specificationforconstituentmaterialsandconcrete;or
(iv) anyrelevantstandardapprovedbythegovernmentauthorityhavingjurisdiction.
7.2.2.1.3Prescribedmix
Foraprescribedmix,theengineershallspecifythemixproportionsandisresponsibleforensuring(by
testing)thattheseproportionsproduceasuitablemix.Thebuilderormanufacturershallundertaketo
provideaproperlymixedconcretecontainingtheconstituentsinthespecifiedproportions.

7.2.2.2 Cements
Cementshallmeettherequirementsof:
(i) BS12:1996Portlandcement;
3

(ii) BS4248:1996Supersulphatedcement;
(iii) BS6588:1996Portlandpulverizedfuelashcement;
(iv) BS7583:1996Portlandlimestonecement;
(v) BS EN 1971:2000 Composition, specification and conformity criteria for common cements

replaced(i),(ii),(iii)and(iv);

(vi)BS146:1996Portlandblastfurnacecement;
(vii)BS915:1972Highaluminacement;
(viii)BS1370:1979LowheatPortlandcement;
(ix)BS4027:1996SulphateresistingPortlandcement;
(x)BS4246:1996Highslagblastfurnacecement;
(xi)BS6610:1996Pozzolanicpulverizedfuelashcement.

7.2.2.3 Aggregates
Aggregatesshallconsistofsand,gravel,crushedrock,expandedshaleorexpandedclayconformingto:
(i) BS882:1992Aggregatesfromnaturalsourcesforconcrete;
(ii) BS1047:1983Aircooledblastfurnaceslagaggregateforuseinconstruction;
(iii) BSEN126202000:Normalandheavyweightaggregates.
(iv) Allinaggregateforoversightconcrete.

Aggregatesshallbeclean,wellgradedandfreeofinjuriousamountsoforganicandotherdeleterious
materials.

7.2.2.4Water
Water shall be clean and free of injurious amounts of oil, organic matter, sediment or any other
deleteriousmaterials.

7.2.2.5 Gradesofconcrete
Concreteshallbeclassifiedintogrades,wherethegradenumberisthecharacteristiccubestrengthas
listedinTable7.2.2.A.Thestrengthoftheconcreteshallbebasedontestsmadeon150mmcubesand
150mmdiameterby300mmcylindersatanageoftwentyeight(28)days,unlessthereissatisfactory
evidencethataparticulartestingregimeiscapableofpredictingthe28daysstrengthatanearlierage.

7.2.2.6 Durability
Theminimumcementcontentkg/m3requiredinPortlandcementconcretetoensuredurabilityshallbe
aslistedinTable7.2.2.BandTable7.2.2.CandnominalcovertoreinforcementshallbeaslistedinTable
7.2.2.D.

Table7.2.2.AGradesofconcrete
(FormingpartofArticle7.2.2.5)

Grade

10
15

20

CharacteristicStrength
(N/mm2)

7.0

10.0
15.0

20.0

25

30

25.0

30.0

40
50

40.0
50.0

Lowestgradeforcompliancewith
appropriateuse

Plainconcrete

Reinforced concrete with lightweight

aggregate

Reinforced concrete with dense

aggregate

Concretewithposttensionedtendons

Concretewithpretensionedtendons

60

60.0

Table7.2.2.BMinimumcementcontent(kg/m3)requiredinPortlandcementconcrete
toensuredurability
(FormingPartofArticle7.2.2.6)

Exposure

Reinforcedconcretenominal
maximumsizeofagg.(mm)
40
20
14
10

Mild for example, completely protected against

weather or aggressive conditions, except for a brief period of

290
270
250
220
exposuretonormalweatherconditionsduringconstruction.

Moderateforexample,shelteredfromsevererain.Buried
340
320
290
260
concreteandconcretecontinuouslyunderwater.

Severeforexample,exposedtoseawater,drivingrain,
410
390
360
320
alternatewettinganddryingandsubjecttoheavycondensationor
corrosivefumes.

Table7.2.2.CMinimumcementcontentfordesignatedmixestoBS8500andBSEN206
(FormingpartofArticle7.2.2.6)

Compressive
strength
(N/mm2)

Strength
class

Typicalapplication

7.5

C6/7.5

Kerbbeddingandbacking

10

C8/10

Blindingandmassconcrete
fill
Drainageworks
Oversite below suspended
slabs
Massconcretefoundations
Trenchfillfoundations

Minimum Maximumfree
cement
water/cement
content
ratio

(kg/m3)
120
Notcritical

Typical
slump
(mm)
10

180

Notcritical

1075

220

Notcritical

75125

20

C16/20

25

C20/25

240

0.70

75125

30

C25/30

260

0.65

50100

35

C28/35

280

0.60

50100

40

C32/40

300

0.55

50100

50

C40/50

340

0.45

50100

35

C28/35

320380

0.500.35

75

Reinforcedconcrete

Foundations in sulphate
conditions

Note: Strength class C28/35 indicates that the minimum characteristic cylinder strength is 28N/mm2 and cube strength
35N/mm2

Table7.2.2.DNominalcovertoreinforcement
(Formingpartofarticle7.2.2.6)

Nominalcover(mm)forConcretegrade
Conditionofexposure

20

Mildforexample,completelyprotected
againstweather,oraggressiveconditions,exceptfor
briefperiodofexposuretonormalweather
conditionsduringconstruction

Moderateforexample,shelteredfromsevererain.
Buriedconcreteandconcretecontinuouslyunderwater

25

N/A

Severeforexampleexposedtodrivingrain,alternated
N/A
wettinganddrying.Subjecttoheavycondensationor

corrosion

Verysevereexposedtoseawaterandwithabrasion N/A
NoteonTable7.2.2.D

25

30

40

50andover

20

40

15

30

15

25

15

20

50

N/A

40

N/A

30

25

50

60

N/Anotapplicable

7.2.2.7 Prescribedmixes
The prescribed mixes described in Table 7.2.2.E shall be considered acceptable for the slump and
maximumsizeofaggregateindicated.

7.2.2.8 Reinforcedconcretedesign
ReinforcedconcreteshallbedesignedtoconformtotherequirementofPart5ofthisCode.

7.2.3 Timberandwoodproducts

7.2.3.1 Moisturecontent
Moisturecontentoftimbershallnotbegreaterthan18percentatthetimeofinstallation.

7.2.3.2Timberdimensions
Timberdimensionsoflessthan25mmreferredtointhisPartareactualdimensions.Timberdimensions
of25mmormorereferredtointhisPartarenominaldimensions.

Table7.2.2EPrescribedmixedbasedonabagofcement(nominal50kg)
(FormingpartofArticle7.2.2.7)
Grade

10

15

Maximumsizeofaggregate

Slump(mm)
Material

Totalaggregate(kg)

Finescontent(%)

Totalaggregate(kg)

Finescontent(%)

Totalaggregate(kg)

Finescontent(%)

40mm
medium
high
work.
work.

50100
100150

medium
work.

20mm
high
work.

25750

75125

14mm
medium
high
work.
work.

1050
50100

535

3045

465

3045

450

3550

395

3550

455

3045

400

3045

385

3550

345

3550

375

3045

335

3045

325

3550

10mm
medium
high
work.
work.
1025

2550

280

3550

20

Totalaggregate(kg)

Sand(%)
Zone1
Zone2
Zone3

305

35
30
30

275

40
35
30

280

40
35
30

245

45
40
35

260

45
40
35

225

50
45
40

240

50
45
40

200

55
50
45

25

Totalaggregate(kg)
Sand(%)
Zone1
Zone2
Zone3

265

35
30
30

240

40
35
30

245

40
35
30

215

45
40
35

225

45
40
35

200

50
45
40

210

50
45
40

180

55
50
45

30

Totalaggregate(kg)
Sand(%)
Zone1
Zone2
Zone3

240

35
30
30

220

40
35
30

215

40
35
30

190

45
40
35

195

45
40
35

175

50
45
40

180

50
45
40

150

55
50
45

7.2.3.3 Joist,rafter,lintelandbeammembersupto5percentlessthantheactualGhanastandardsizes
maybeusedprovidedtheallowablespansforthegradeandspeciesoftimberunderconsiderationare
reducedby5percentfromthoseshowninthespantablesforfullsizemembers.

7.2.4Metal

7.2.4.1MinimumthicknessforsheetmaterialgiveninthisPartrefertotheactualminimumthicknesses
measured at any point of the material, and in the case of galvanized steel includes coating unless
otherwiseindicated.

7.3LOADS

7.3.1General
7.3.1.1 When the size of structural members and their connections are not given in this Part, the
members and their connections shall conform to Part 5 of this Code, except that design imposed
(live)loadsanddeflectionlimitsshallconformtosubsections7.3.2to7.3.6.

7.3.2Floorloads
Theminimumdesignliveloadsonafloorareashallbetakenasbeingequaltoauniformlyappliedload
over the entire area or a concentrated load whichever produces greater and shall be based on the
intendeduseandoccupancyassetoutinTable7.3.2.A

Table7.3.2.AMinimumdesignimposed(live)floorloads
(FormingPartofArticle7.3.2)
UseofAreaofFloor

Minimum design Minimum concentrated design

liveload(kN/m2)
load over any square with a
300mmside(kN)

Corridors,lobbiesandaislesover1.2mwidth,

except for public corridors above first storey

4.0
4.5
inresidentialoccupancies

Corridors,lobbiesandaislesnotover1.2min (1)

width

4.5
Balconies
4.0

4.5
Equipmentrooms
2.0(2)

Exits
4.0

Factories

4.5
Light
5.0
6.7
Medium
7.5
9.0
Heavy
10.0

Garages
For passenger cars unloaded buses and
light trucks not exceeding 2500 kg including
drivewaysandramps

All repair workshops for all types of vehicles

and parking for vehicles exceeding 2500 kg
grossweightincludingdrivewaysandramps

Kitchens
otherthandomestic

Officeareas
basementandfirststoreys

Laboratories

Residentialoccupancies
attics not accessible by a stairway
atticsaccessiblebyastairway
bedrooms
allotherrooms
stairswithindwellingunits
Mercantileoccupancies

2.5

To be determined
butnotlessthan5.0

3.0

4.0

To be determined
notlessthan3.0

0.4
1.4
1.4
1.9
3.6
4.0

9.0

To be determined but not less

than9.0

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

NotesonTable7.3.2.A
(1)
Corridors, lobbies and aisles over 1.2m width shall be designed to carry not less than the design load
requiredfortheoccupanciestheyserve.
(2)
Totalequipmentloadsmustbecalculatedandallowedforinthedesign.

7.3.3 Roofliveloadsotherthanwindloadsorrainloads

7.3.3.1 Roof(whetherflatorpitched)ofahousehavingnotmorethanthreestoreysandintendedfor
occupationbyonefamilyonlytowhichthereisonlysuchaccessasmaybenecessaryforthepurposes
ofmaintenanceorrepairshallwithstandanimposedloadof720N/m2less50Nforevery30bywhich
thepitchexceeds30o.

7.3.3.2 Inthecaseofarooftowhichthereisaccessotherthansolelyforthepurposesofmaintenance
orrepairtheimposedloadshallbetakenas1.44kN/m2.

7.3.4. Windloads

7.3.4.1DesignwindloadsshallconformtotheappropriaterequirementsinSection5.9ofPart5ofthis
Code.

10

7.3.5 Deflections
7.3.5.1ThemaximumdeflectionofstructuralmembersshallconformtoTable7.3.5.A.Deadloadsneed
notbeconsideredincomputingsuchdeflections.

Table7.3.5.AMaximumdeflectionofstructuralmembers
(FormingpartofArticle7.3.5.A)

Structural

Typeofceilingsupported

Roof rafter, roof joists, roof NoCeiling

beamsandroof

decking of plank and beam Otherthanplaster

construction

Plaster

Maximum allowable deflection

expressedasaRatiooftheClear
Span

1/180

1/240

1/360

1/240

1/360

Ceilingjoist

Otherthanplaster

Plaster

Floor beams, floor joists and

floordeckingofplankandbeam
construction for floor areas
otherthanbedroomsindwelling
units

Noceiling

Otherthanplaster

Plaster

1/360

1/360

1/360

Floor beams, floor joists and

floordeckingof
plankandbeamconstructionfor
floor areas of bedrooms in
dwellingunits

NoCeiling

Otherthanplaster

Plaster

1/240

1/240

1/360

7.3.6Earthquakeloads

7.3.6.1 Exceptforbuildingsofwoodframeconstruction,buildingsshallbedesignedfortheearthquake
loads in Section 5.10 of Part 5 of this Code, where the greatest horizontal area of the building above
gradefloorlevel,measuredwithintheexteriorsurfacesoftheexteriorwalls,exceeds220m2.

7.3.6.2ExceptasprovidedinArticles7.3.6.3to7.3.6.5,2and3storeybuildingsinseismiczone3and3
storeybuildingsinseismiczone2shallbedesignedfortheearthquakeloadsinSection5.10ofPart5of
11

thisCodewherethegreatesthorizontalareaofthebuildingabovegradefloorlevel,measuredwithin
theexteriorsurfacesoftheexteriorwalls,doesnotexceed220m2.

7.3.6.3 Buildings with structural loadbearing precast concrete elements (normal or lightweight) shall
haveconnectionsdesignedfortheearthquakeloadsinSection5.10ofPart5ofthisCode.

7.3.6.4Buildings constructed with loadbearing masonry walls which are required to resist the
earthquake loads specified in Articles 7.3.6.1. and 7.3.6.2 may, in lieu of engineered design, be
reinforcedasrequiredinSubsection7.16.11.

7.3.6.5 Buildings with structural systems of wood frame construction need not be designed for the
earthquakeloadsinSection5.10ofPart5ofthisCode.

7.4

ROOMANDSPACEDIMENSIONS

7.4.1 General

7.4.1.1 Thissectionappliesonlytodwellingunitsthatareintendedforuseonacontinuingbasisasthe
principalresidenceoftheoccupant.

7.4.1.2 Methodofmeasurement
Unless otherwise indicated herein, the areas, dimensions and heights of rooms or spaces shall be
measuredbetweenfinishedwallsurfacesandbetweenfinishedfloorandceilingsurfaces.

7.4.1.3 CombinedSpace
Minimumdimensionslistedforroomsorspacesincombinationwithotherroomsorspacesrefertothe
minimumdimensionofthecombinedspace.

7.4.1.4.Floorareas
Minimum (usable) floor areas specified in this section do not include closets or builtin bedroom
cabinetsunlessotherwiseindicated.

7.4.1.5 Combinationrooms
Two or more areas are considered as a combination room if the dividing wall occupies less than 60
percentoftheseparatingplane.

7.4.1.6Areasanddimensionsofroomsandspacesmaybelessthanrequiredinthissectionprovidedit
can be shown to the satisfaction of the authority having jurisdiction that the rooms and spaces are
adequatefortheirintendeduse,suchasbytheprovisionofbuiltinfurnituretocompensateforreduced
sizes.

7.4.2 Ceilingheights

7.4.2.1 Roomheights
HeightsofroomsorspacesinresidentialoccupanciesshallconformtoTable7.4.2.A

12

Table7.4.2.ACeilingheights
(FormingpartofArticle7.4.2.1)

Roomheights
Roomorspace
Livingroomorspace,
Diningroomorspace
Kitchenorkitchenspace

Minimumheights
2.3moveratleast75percentoftherequiredfloor
area with a clear height of at least 2.0m at any
pointovertherequiredarea.

Bedroomorbedroomspace
2.3moveratleast50percentoftherequiredfloor
areaoratleast2.0moveralloftherequiredfloor
area.Anypartofthefloorhavingaclearheightof
less than 1.4m shall not be considered in
computingtherequiredfloorarea.

Unfinished basement or cellar including laundry 1.9m under beams in laundry areas and in any
areatherein
location that would normally be used for passage
tolaundryandrequiredstorageareas.

Bathroom, watercloset room or laundry area 2.0m in any area where a person would normally
beinastandingposition
abovegradefloorlevel

Passage,hallormainentranceandfinishedrooms 2.0m
notspecificallymentionedabove

7.4.2.2 Theclearheightaboveandbelowamezzaninefloorassemblyinalloccupanciesshallnotbeless
than2.0munlessotherwisepermittedbytheauthorityhavingjurisdiction.

7.4.2.3 Theclearheightinastoragegarageshallnotbelessthan2.0m.

7.4.3 LivingroomsorSpaceswithindwellingunits

7.4.3.1 Livingroomarea
Livingareaswithindwellingunits,eitherasseparateroomsorincombinationwithotherspaces,shall
haveatleast13.47m2offloorareaandshallhavenodimensionlessthan3mwithintherequiredareas.
Wheretheareaofalivingspaceiscombinedwithakitchenanddiningarea,thelivingareaaloneina
bachelordwellingunitshallbeatleast11.15m2.

7.4.4 Diningroomsorspaceswithindwellingunits

7.4.4.1 A dining space in combination with other space shall have a minimum floor area of 3.25m2.
Diningroomsnotcombinedwithotherspaceshallhaveaminimumareaof6.50m2.
13

7.4.4.2 ExceptaspermittedinArticle7.4.4.3,adiningroomorspacecombinedwithotherspaceshall
havenodimensionlessthan2.3mwithintherequiredareameasuredbetweenwallfacesorawallface
andabuiltincabinetorappliance.

7.4.4.3 When a required dining area is provided in a kitchen or serves a bachelor dwelling unit, the
minimumdimensionofsuchspacemaybereducedto1.7m.

7.4.5 Kitchenwithindwellingunits

7.4.5.1 Kitchenarea
Kitchenareaswithindwellingunitseitherseparateorincombinationwithotherspaceshallhaveatleast
7.43m2offloorareaincludingtheareaoccupiedbythebasecabinets,exceptthatinbachelordwelling
unitstheminimumfloorareashallbe3.72m2.

7.4.5.2Atleast910mmclearanceshallbeprovidedinfrontofbasecabinet,worksurfaces,counter
topsandappliances.

7.4.6 Bedroomorspaceindwellingunits

7.4.6.1 Mainbedroomarea

Except as provided in Article 7.5.6.3 at least one bedroom in every dwelling unit shall have at least
11.15m2offloorareawherebuiltincabinetsarenotprovidedand10.10m2offloorareawherebuiltin
cabinetsareprovided.Theminimumdimensionwithintheirrequiredareashallbe2.7m.

7.4.6.2 Otherbedroomareas
ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.4.6.3additionalbedroomsshallhaveatleast8.36m2offloorareawhere
builtin cabinets are not provided and 7.57m2 of floor area where builtin cabinets are provided. The
minimumdimensionwithintherequiredareashallbe2.44m.

7.4.6.3 Combinationbedroomareas
Bedroomspacesincombinationwithotherspacesshallhaveatleast5.05m2offloorareaandhaveno
dimensionlessthan1.98mwithintherequiredarea.

7.4.7 Bathroomsandwaterclosetrooms

7.4.7.1 Bathroomareas
In every dwelling unit an enclosed space of a minimum of 3m2 shall be provided to accommodate a
bathtuborshowerbath,waterclosetandlavatorybasin.

7.4.7.2At least 550mm clearance shall be provided in front of the tub or shower stall to an opposite
wallfaceor450mminfronttoanotherfixtureoveratleast600mmlengthofthebathtuborshower.

7.4.7.3Thecentrelineofthewaterclosetshallbeatleast400mmawayfromanadjacentsidewalland
fromavanity.Atleast450mmclearanceshallbeprovidedinfrontofthewaterclosettotheopposite
walloranotherfixture.

14

7.4.7.4 Thecentrelineofalavatorybasinshallbeatleast400mmfromanadjacentsidewall.Atleast
550mm clearance shall be provided in front of the lavatory basin to an opposite wall or 450mm
clearanceinfronttoanotherfixture.

7.4.8 Hallways

7.4.8.1 Widthofhallways
Thewidthofahallwaywithinadwellingunitshallbeatleast1200mm.

7.5DOORS
7.5.1General
7.5.1.1 Doorinfireseparations
Requirementsrelatingtodoorsinfireseparatingandmeansofegressshallconformtotheappropriate
requirementsinSection7.8and7.9.

7.5.2 Requireddoors

7.5.2.1 Requireddoorsinsingledwellingunits

Adoorshallbeprovidedateachentrancetoadwellingunit,bathroom,waterclosetroomandshower
room.

7.5.2.2 Requireddoorsinmultipledwellingunits
Inbuildingscontainingmorethanonedwellingunit,doorsshallbeprovidedattheexteriorentrances,
laundry or drying rooms, storage rooms, public watercloset rooms, recreation rooms and any other
locationsrequiredbySection7.9.

7.5.3 Doorwaysizes

7.5.3.1 Doorwayopenings
Doorwayopeningswithindwellingunitsshallbedesignedtoaccommodatenotlessthanthedoorsizes
inTable7.5.3.Aforswingtypedoors.Wherefoldingdoorsaretobeprovided,thesameopeningsapply.

15

Table7.5.3ADoorwaysizes
(FormingpartofArticle7.5.3.1)

Minimumsizeofdoors
AtEntranceto

Widthmm

Height
m
2.0

Dwellingunit(requiredentrance),Vestibuleorentrancehall

810

Stairstoafloorlevelthatcontainsafinishedspace

Alldoorsinatleastonelineofpassagefromtheexteriortothebasement

Utilityrooms
Walkincloset

810

610

2.0

2.0

Bathroom,watercloset,showerroom

610

2.0

Roomsnotmentionedabove,exteriorbalconies

760

2.0

7.5.3.2Doorstopublicwaterclosetroomsshallnotbelessthan810mminwidthand2.0minheight.

7.5.4 Exteriordoors

7.5.4.1 Exteriordoorsshallbeatleast44mmthick,exceptthatdoorsforsecondaryentrancesserving
single dwelling units or balconies may be 35mm thick if of solid wood, solid core or stile and rail
construction.

7.5.4.2Stormorcombinationdoorsshallbeatleast35mmthickforwooddoorsand25mmformetal
doors.

7.5.4.3 Where an exterior door opening is not completely protected from driving rain, it shall be
providedwithasillthatslopestotheexteriorandthesillcaulkedwithsuitablecaulkingtoprevententry
ofwater.

7.5.4.4Woodenframesfoeexteriordoorsshallbetreatedwithapprovedpreservative.Steelframesfor
exterior doors shall be painted with a rust inhibitive paint or otherwise treated before erection to
preventcorrosion.

7.5.5 Interiordoors

7.5.5.1 Interior wood doors in dwelling units other than closet doors or cupboards doors shall be at
least35mmthick.

16

7.5.5.2 Interiorwooddoorstoroomsorspacesusedforstorage,laundry,drying,vestibules,recreation,
kitchen areas or water closets in apartments, buildings but not within dwelling units shall be at least
44mmthick.

7.5.5.3Doorssitedalongegressshallbefittedwithavisionpanelofatleast150mmx150mm.

7.5.6 Glass

7.5.6.1 GlassthicknessandthesizeofglassfordoorsshallconformtoTable7.5.6.A

Table7.5.6.AGlasssizeforDoors
(FormingpartofArticle7.5.6.1)

MinimumGlassWeight

510g
680g
907g

Minimumglass
thickness

4.8mm

5.6mm

MaximumPerimeter,m

2.03
3.05
4.06
4.57
Notlimited

7.5.6.2 Glasssidelightsgreaterthan460mminwidththatcouldbemistakenfordoors,glassinstorm
doorsandglassinslidingdoorswithinorateveryentrancetoadwellingunitandinpublicareasshallbe
safetyglassofthelaminatedortemperedtypeorshallbeofwiredglass.

7.5.6.3 Glass in entrance doors to dwelling units and in public areas, other than the entrance doors
described in Article 7.5.6.2 shall be safety glass or wired glass of the type described in Article 7.5.6.2
wheretheglassareaexceeds0.46m2andextendstolessthan910mmfromthebottomofthedoor.

7.5.6.4 Mirroredglassdoorsmaybeusedonlyattheentrancetoclothesclosets.Suchdoorsshallbe
reinforcedwithhardboardplywoodorparticleboardsecurelyfastenedtothebackofthemirrorunless
themirrorissafetyglassofthelaminatedortemperedtype.

7.5.6.5 ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.6.5.3everyglassortransparentdooraccessibletoandusedby
the public shall be equipped with hardware, bars, or other permanent fixtures designed so that the
existenceandpositionofsuchdoorwillbereadilyapparent.

7.5.6.6 Glassotherthansafetyglassshallnotbeusedforashowerorbathtubenclosure.
17

7.5.7 Garagedoors

7.5.7.1 Garagedoorsshallbenotlessthan2.44mwideforonecarand4.27mwidefor2carwidth.The
heightoftheclearopeningwiththedoorintheopenpositionshallbenotlessthan1.93m.Forparking
garages, garage doors shall be not less than 3.05m wide for oneway traffic and 4.88m for twoway
traffic.

7.5.7.2 Wooddoorsshallbeatleast44mmthickinsidehingedoronepieceoverheadandnotlessthan
35mmthickifsectionaloverhead.

7.5.7.3 Steel and Aluminum doors shall be made with suitable braced frames clad with not less than
0.6mmgalvanizedsteelpreparedforpaintor0.8mmthickaluminum.

7.5.7.4 Overheaddoorsshallhavesuitablespringsorcounterbalancesandweatherstops.

7.5.7.5 Garagedoorsshallbeequippedwithlocks.

7.6

WINDOWS

7.6.1

Scope

7.6.1.1 Naturallighting
Thissectionappliestoinstallationofwindowsandtotherequirementfornaturallightingtobeprovided
bywindowsinresidentialoccupancies.

7.6.1.2 RequirementsforwidowsinrelationtofireprotectionaredescribedinSection7.9

7.6.1.3 Ventilation
RequirementsforventilationaredescribedinSection7.23.

7.6.2 General

7.6.2.1 Windowdesign
Windowsshallbedesignedandinstalledsothattheyshedwater.

7.6.2.2 Minimumwindowglassarea
Except as provided in 7.6.2.4 the minimum window glass area for rooms in buildings or residential
occupancyorwhichareusedforsleepingshallconformtoTable7.6.2.A.Theunobstructedglassareaof
adoororskylightisconsideredequivalenttothatofawindow.

7.6.2.3 Windowsinpublicspaces
Whereverpracticable,windowsshallbeprovidedtolightcorridors,stairwaysandsimilarpublicspace
inbuildings.

18

Table7.6.2.A
(FormingpartofArticle7.6.2.2)

MinimumGlassareasforroomsofresidentialoccupancy

Location
UnobstructedGlassarea

4percentofareaserved
Laundry, basement recreation room, unfurnished
basementorcellar

Waterclosetroom
0.37m2

Kitchen:
13percentofareaserved
Kitchenspace

Kitchenalcove

Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and other

13percentofareaserved
furnishedroomsnotmentionedabove

7.6.2.4 InareasdeemedbytheAuthorityhavingjurisdictiontohavehotdryclimatestheminimumglass
areashallbenotlessthan3percent(3%)oftheareaserved.

7.6.3 Glass

7.6.3.1 ThicknessofglassinwindowsshallconformtoTable7.6.3.A

Table7.6.3.A
(FormingpartofArticle7.6.3.1)

MinimumGlassWeight

510gm
680gm
907gm

Maximumglasssizeforvariousthicknesses

MinimumGlassThickness
SashtypeorFixedGlazing

3.05mperimeter

4.27mperimeter

6.10mperimeter

4.8mm
7.11mperimeter
5.6mm
4.65m2
6.4mm
Nolimit
19

7.6.4 Caulking

7.6.4.1 Caulking
Caulking shall be provided between window frames or trim and the exterior siding or masonry unless
suchlocationsarecompletelyprotectedfromentryofrain.

7.6.5 WindowsinPublicareas

7.6.5.1 Except as provided in Article 7.6.5.3 transparent panels that could be mistaken as a means of
egressshallbeprotectedbybarriersorrailings.

7.6.5.2 Windowsinexitstairwaysthatextendtolessthan1.07m,abovethelandingshallbeprotected
bybarriersorrailingsapproximately1.07mabovesuchlandings.

7.6.5.3 Slidingglasspartitionswhichseparateapubliccorridorfromanadjacentoccupancyandwhich
areopenduringnormalworkinghoursneednotconformtoArticle7.6.5.1and7.5.6.5.

7.7
STAIRS,RAMPS,HANDRAILSANDGUARDS

7.7.1 Scope

7.7.1.1 Designandconstructionofstairs
ThisSectionappliestothedesignandconstructionofinteriorandexteriorstairs,steps,ramps,railings
andguards.

7.7.1.2 Stairsaspartofexit
Wherethestairformspartofanexit,theappropriaterequirementsinSection7.8shallalsoapply.

7.7.1.3 EscalatorsandmovingwalkwaysshallconformtotheappropriaterequirementsinPart3ofthis
Code.

7.7.2 General

7.7.2.1 Definitions

(1)CommonStairwaymeansaninternalorexternalstairwayofstepswithstraightnosingsonplan
which forms part of a building and is intended for common use in connection with two or more
dwellings.
NotionalwidthhasthemeaningascribedtoitinArticle7.7.2.1(2)c.
Parallelstepmeansastepofwhichthenosingisparalleltothenosingofasteporlandingnext
aboveit(Fig.7.7.2.A).
Pitchlinemeansanotionallinedrawnfromthefloororlandingbelowastairwaytoconnectthe
nosingsofallthetreadsinaflightofstairs(Fig.7.7.2.B).

Privatestairwaymeansaninternalorexternalstairwayofstepswithstraightnosingsonplanwhich
formspartofabuildingandiseitherwithinadwellingorintendedforusesolelyinconnectionwith
20

onedwelling.
Taperedstepsmeansastep,thenosingofwhichisnotparalleltothenosingofasteporlanding
nextaboveit.

(2)(a)Thegoingofastepshallbemeasuredonplanbetweenthenosingofitstreadandthenosingof
thetreadofsteporlandingnextaboveit(Fig.7.7.2C)

(b)Exceptasprovidedin(c)thewidthofastairwayshallbemeasuredbetweenthecentrelineof
thehandrailontheonesideandontheothersidethecentrelineofthehandrail,or,ifthereis
nohandrailthesurfaceofthewall,screenorbalustradefacingthestairwayorrailing
(Fig.7.7.2D)

(c)Ifastairwaycontainsconsecutivetaperedstepsofdifferingwidths,allsuchtaperedstepsshall
bedeemedtohaveanotionalwidthequaltothewidthofthenarrowestpartofthosetapered
steps,measuredfromthesideofthestairwaywherethestepsarenarrower(Fig.7.7.2E).

7.7.2.2 Treadsandrisersshallhaveuniformriseandgoingsinanyoneflightforeveryparallelstep.

7.7.2.3 Anyprivateorcommonstairwayshallbesoconstructedthatoverthewholewidthor,incaseof
taperedstepsthenotionalwidthofstairway,thereis:
(i)headroomofnotlessthan2mmeasuredverticallyabovethepitchline;and

(ii)clearanceofnotlessthan1.5mmeasuredatrightanglestothepitchline.

7.7.2.4 Anyprivateorcommonstairwayshallbesoconstructedthatthenosingofthetreadofanystep
orlandingwhichhasnoriserbelowitoverlaps,onplan,thebackedgeofthetreadofthestepbelowit
bynotlessthan16mm(Fig.7.7.2F).

7.7.2.5 Exceptforinteriorstairswithinadwellingunit,atleastthreerisersshallbeprovidedforinterior
stairs.

7.7.2.6 Interiorstairsextendingthroughtheroofofabuildingshallbeprotectedfromrain.

21


Fig.7.7.2

22

7.7.3 Privatestairways
7.7.3.1 Any private stairway shall be so constructed that the sum of the going of a parallel step plus
twiceitsriseisnotlessthan550mmandnotmorethan700mm.

7.7.3.2 Theriseofastepshallbenotmorethan175mmandthegoingofastepnotlessthan220mm

(Fig.7.7.3A)

7.7.3.3 Thepitchoftheprivatestairwayshallbenotmorethan42o.

7.7.3.4 Aprivatestairwayshallcontainnotaperedstepsexceptaspermittedbysubsection7.7.5

7.7.4 Commonstairways

7.7.4.1 Anycommonstairwayshallbesoconstructedthatthesumofthegoingofaparallelstepplus
twiceitsriseisnotlessthan550mmandnotmorethan700mm.

7.7.4.2 Theriseofastepshallbenotmorethan190mmandthegoingofastepnotlessthan230mm.
(Fig.7.7.4A).

7.7.4.3 Thepitchofanycommonstairwayshallnotbemorethan38o.

7.7.4.4 Acommonstairwayshallhavenotmorethan16risesinanyflight.

7.7.4.5 Acommonstairwayshallcontainnotaperedstepsexceptaspermittedbysubsection7.7.5.

23

Fig.7.7

24

7.7.5 Taperedsteps

7.7.5.1 Thegoingandpitchoftaperedstepsshallbemeasuredintheverticalplanesofthepitchlines
connectingthenosingsofconsecutivestepsatadistanceof270mmfromtheextremitiesofthewidth
(orwhereapplicable,thenotionalwidth)ofsuchsteps.

7.7.5.2 The sum of the going plus twice the rise shall be not less than 550mm and not more than
720mm(Fig.7.7.5A).

7.7.5.3 Anyprivateorcommonstairwaymayincludetaperedstepssoconstructedthatthegreatestand
leastgoingsofconsecutivetaperedstepsareuniform.

7.7.5.4 Taperedstepsinaprivateorcommonstairwayshallhavethewidthofthenosingofthelowest
ofanyconsecutive taperedstepsequaltothewidthofthenosingofthe parallelsteporlanding next
abovesuchtaperedsteps(Fig.7.7.5B).

7.7.5.5 Anyprivatestairwaywhichisnotlessthan750mmormorethan1mwidemayincludetapered
stepssoconstructedthatthenosingofthetreadofanysuchstepmakesauniformangleonplanofnot
lessthan20owiththenosingofthetreadofthesteporlandingnextaboveit.

7.7.5.6 Any tapered steps in a private stairway shall have a going not less than 75mm throughout its
actualwidthandariseofnotmorethan220mmiftheprivatestairwayisnotlessthan750mmormore
than1mwide.

7.7.5.7 Any tapered steps in a private stairway shall have its least going uniform with that of any
consecutivetaperedstep.

7.7.5.8 Anytaperedstepsinaprivatestairwayshallhavethewidthofthenosingofthelowestofany
consecutive tapered steps equal to the width of the nosing of the parallel step or landing next above
suchtaperedsteps(Fig.7.7.5C).

7.7.6 Landings

7.7.6.1 Landings
Landingsshallbeatleastaswideandaslongasthewidthofstairsinwhichtheyoccur,exceptthatthe
length of landing for exterior stairsserving not more than one dwelling unit need not exceed 610mm
andthelengthoflandingforallotherstairsinastraightrunneednotexceed1.12m

7.7.6.2 DoorSwingonStairs
Whereadoorswingstowardsastair,thefullarcofitsswingshallbeoveralanding.Exceptasprovided
inArticle7.7.6.3,alandingshallbeprovidedatthetopandbottomofeachflightofinteriorstairsand,
whereadoorwayoccurs,inastairway.

7.7.6.3 Whereadooroccursatthetopofthestairinadwellingunit,nolandingisrequiredbetween
thedoorwayandstairs.

25

7.7.6.4 Alandingshallbeprovidedatthetopofallexteriorstairs,exceptthatalandingmaybeomitted
at a secondary entrance to a building containing a single dwelling unit provided the stair does not
containmorethan3risers.

7.7.6.5 Theclearheightoverlandingsshallbeatleast2m.

7.7.7. Ramps

7.7.7.1 Maximumgradientforramps
Themaximumgradientforpedestrianrampsshallbe1in5formercantileorindustrialoccupanciesand
1in8forallotheroccupancies.Thegradientforeveryexteriorrampshallbe1in10.Maximumgradient
oframpsfordisabledpersonsareasgiveninSectionofPart3ofthisCode.

7.7.7.2 Levelareainramps
Whereadoorwayorstairwayopensontothesideofarampthereshallbealevelareaextendingacross
thefullwidthoftherampandforadistanceofatleast300mmoneithersideoftheopening.

7.7.7.3 Whereadoorwayorstairwayopensontotheendofaramp,thereshallbelevelareaextending
acrossthefullwidthoftherampandalongtherampforatleast610mm.

7.7.8 Handrails
7.7.8.1 Anyflightofstepsinaprivateorcommonstairwaywithanaggregateriseofmorethan600mm
shallhaveacontinuoushandrailfixedsecurelyataheightofnotlessthan850mmnormorethan1m
measuredverticallyabovethepitchline:

a) oneachsideofthestairway,iftheleastwidthofthestairwayis1mormore;or

b) ononesideofthestairway,inanyothercase(Fig.7.7.8A).

7.7.8.2 Aclearanceofatleast30mmshallbeprovidedbetweeneachhandrailandthewalltowhichitis
fastened.

7.7.8.3Handrailsshallbesoconstructedthattherewillbenoobstructiononorabovethemtobreaka
handhold.

7.7.8.4 Handrails and stair stringers shall not project more than 90mm into the required width of
stairway.

26

Fig.7.7.8

7.7.9 Guards

7.7.9.1 Every exterior landing, porch and every balcony, mezzanine, gallery, raised walkway roof of
other external area to which access is provided for other than for maintenance purposes, shall be
protected by guards on all open sides where, the difference in elevation between adjacent levels
exceeds600mm.

7.7.9.2 Any private stairway of common stairway shall be guarded on each side by a wall or be
protectedbyguardsextendingtoaheightofnotlessthan850mmmeasuredverticallyabovethepitch
lines.

7.7.9.3 Except as provided in Article 7.7.9.4 all guards including those for balconies shall be at least
1.1minheight.

7.7.9.4 Guardstoalandingorsimilarspaceformingpartofastairwayshallbeatleast900mminheight
inthecaseofaprivatestairwayor1.1minheightinthecaseofacommonstairway.

7.7.9.5 Openingsthroughaguardonabalconyoranexitstair,exceptonanexitstairservingnotmore
than one dwelling unit, shall be of a size as to prevent the passage of a spherical object having a
diameterof100mminresidentialoccupanciesand150mminotheroccupancies,unlessitcanbeshown
tothesatisfactionoftheauthorityhavingjurisdictionthatthelocationandsizeofsuchopeningswhich
exceedthelimitdonotrepresentahazard.

27

7.7.9.6 Guards around exterior balconies of buildings of residential occupancies shall be designed so
thatnomember,attachmentoropeninglocatedbetween100mmand1.1mabovethebalconyfloorwill
facilitateclimbing.

7.7.10 Construction

7.7.10.1Woodenstairstringers
Woodenstairstringersshallhaveaminimumeffectivedepthof90mmandanoveralldepthofaleast
235mm. Stringers shall be supported and secured top and bottom. Stringers shall be at least 25mm
actualthicknessifsupportedalongtheirlengthand40mmactualthicknessifunsupportedalongtheir
length.Stringersshallbespacednotmorethan900mmo.c(oncentres)indwellingunitsand600mm
o.c. when located in other than dwelling units, except that in dwelling units where risers support the
frontportionofthetread,thespacebetweenstringersshallnotexceed1.20munlessthestringersare
designedforwiderspacings.

7.7.10.2Woodentreads
Timberorplywoodtreadsforstairswithindwellingunitsshallbeatleast25mmactualthicknessexcept
thatifopenrisersareused,andthedistancebetweenstringersexceeds760mm,thetreadsshallbeat
least40mmactualthickness.

7.7.10.3Treadfinish
The finish for treads and landings of interior stairs in dwelling units, other than stairs to unfinished
basements and cellars, shall consist of hardwood, resilient flooring or other material providing
equivalentperformance.

7.7.10.4Nonskidfinish
Thefinishfortreadsandlandingsofinteriorandexteriorstairs,otherthanthoseindwellingunitsshall
haveanonskidfinishorshallbeprovidedwithnonskidstrips.

7.8MEANSOFEGRESS

7.8.1Scope

7.8.1.1 ThisSectionappliestorequirementsthataredesignedtopermitthesafeandconvenientaccess
totheexteriorofabuilding,toapublicthoroughfareortoapprovedopenspace.

7.8.1.2 Stairways handrails and guards in a means of egress shall conform to the requirements in
Section7.7aswellasrequirementsinthissection.

7.8.2General

7.8.2.1 Exitsshallbeprovidedfromeveryfloorarea.Exceptformezzaninesthatarenotenclosedand
areofasizepermittedinTable7.8.6.Atohaveasingleegress,mezzaninesshallbeprovidedwithexits
onthesamebasisasrequiredforfloorareasinthissection.

7.8.2.2 An access to exit shall be provided from every roof intended for occupancy and from every
podium,terrace,platformorcontainedopenspace.Wherearoofisintendedforanoccupantloadof
28

more than 60 persons, at least 2 separate means of egress shall be provided from the roof to stairs
designedinconformancewiththerequirementsforexitstairsandlocatedremotefromeachother.

7.8.2.3 Exitsmayconsistofdoorways,passageways,ramps,stairways,horizontalexitsandescalators
provided that where escalators are used as required exits, they are capable of moving only in the
directionofexittravel.

7.8.2.4 Elevatorsorwindowsshallnotbeconsideredasbeingpartofarequiredmeansofegress.

7.8.2.5 Anexitshallbedesignedfornopurposeotherthanforexitingexceptthatanexitmayalsoserve
asanaccesstoafloorarea.

7.8.3 Dimensionsofmeansofegress

7.8.3.1 Thissubsectionappliestoeverymeansofegressexceptexitsthatservenotmorethanone(1)
dwellingunitandaccesstoexitswithindwellingunits.

7.8.3.2 The occupant load of floor areas or part of floor areas used in determining the minimum
requiredwidthofameansofegressshallbethenumberofpersonsforwhichsuchareasaredesigned
butnotfewerthanthatdeterminedfromTable7.8.3A.

7.8.3.3 Exitwidth
ExceptasprovidedinSubsection7.8.5,thewidthofanexitcorridorshallbeatleast1.12mandwidthof
other exits at least 915mm unless greater widths are required because of the occupant load. In
computingtheexitwidthonthebasisofoccupantload,theminimumaggregatewidthofexteriorexit
doors shall be 1 unit (see Article 7.8.3.6) per 90 persons, and the minimum aggregate width of other
exits shall be 1 unit per 30 persons for residential occupancies and 1 unit per 60 persons for other
occupancies.

7.8.3.4 Accesstoexitwidth
ExceptasprovidedinSubsection7.8.5theminimumwidthofadoorwaycorridororpassagewayinan
accesstoexitshallbe1unit(seeArticle7.8.3.6)per90personsbutinnocaseshalltheminimumwidth
ofapublicmeansofegressbelessthan1.20m.

29

Table7.8.3.A
FormingpartofArticle7.8.3.2
Maximumareaperpersontobeassumedincalculating
occupantload
MaximumAreaperpersonm2

(1)
4.65

4.65
9.29

2.79
5.57

4.65
46.45
27.87
46.45
46.45

4.65
9.29

OccupancyorUseofFloorArea
Residential
Dwellingunits
Dormitories

Businessandpersonalservices
Shops
Offices

Mercantile
Retailsalesfloorsatgroundfloor,cellar
orbasement
Othermercantileuses

Industrial/Factory
Manufacturingorprocessrooms
Storagegarage
Warehousestoragespace
Otherstoragespace
Aircrafthangers

OtherUses
Cleaningandrepair
Kitchens

NotetoTable7.8.3.A
(1) Occupantloadshallbebasedontwo(2)personsperbedroomorsleepingarea.

7.8.3.5 ExceptasprovidedinSubsection7.8.5,theminimumwidthofastairwayorrampinanaccessto
exitshallbe1unit,asspecifiedunderArticle7.8.3.6,per60persons.

30

7.8.3.6 Calculationofunitsofexitwidth
TheunitsorexitwidthinArticles7.8.3.3to7.8.3.5shallbedeterminedbedividingthewidth(inmm)of
exitby560.Wheretheremainderislessthan300mm,itshallnotbeconsideredascontributingtothe
numberofunits.Wheretheremainderis300mmormore,itshallbeconsideredascontributedunit
ofexitwidthinthecaseofstairsandunitofexitinthecaseofotherexitfacilities.

7.8.3.7 Aggregatewidthofexits
Where an exit serves more than 1(one) floor area, the aggregate width of such exit need not be
cumulativefromfloortofloorexceptthatwhereexitsfromaboveorbelowconvergeatanintermediate
level, the width beyond the convergence in the direction of exit travel shall be not less than the
aggregaterequiredwidthoftheconvergingexits.

7.8.3.8 Heightofmeansofegress
Except as provided in Subsection 7.8.5 and Article 7.8.3.7 the minimum height of exits and corridors
whichprovideaccesstoexitsshallbe2.15m.

7.8.4 Obstructionsandhazardsinmeansofegress

7.8.4.1 Scope

This subsection applies to obstructions and hazards in every means of egress except those within a
dwellingunitornotservingnotmorethan1dwellingunit.

7.8.4.2 Occupanciesinpubliccorridors
Whereapubliccorridororcorridorusedbythepubliccontainsanoccupancy,suchoccupancyshallnot
reducetheunobstructedwidthofthecorridorlessthantherequiredwidthofthecorridor.

7.8.4.3 Obstructionsinexits
Except as permitted in Subsection 7.8.5 and Article 7.7.8.4, no fixture turnstile or construction shall
projectwithintherequiredwidthofexit.

7.8.4.4 Inanymercantileoccupancy,noobstructionsuchaspostsorturnstilesshallbeplacedsoasto
restrict the width of a normal means of egress from a floor area or part of a floor area to less than
760mm unless an alternate means of egress is provided adjacent to and is plainly visible from the
restrictedegress.

7.8.4.5 Mirrorsinexits
Nomirrorshallbeplacedinoradjacenttoanyexitsoastoconfusethedirectionofexit,andnomirror
ordraperiesshallbeplacedonoroverexitdoors.

7.8.4.6 Appliancesinameansofegress
Fuelfiredappliancesshallnotbeinstalledinanexitorcorridorservingasanaccesstoexit.

7.8.4.7 Service rooms containing equipment subject to possible explosion and certain types of
refrigeratingandtransformerequipmentshallnotbelocatedunderrequiredexits.

31

7.8.5 Doorinmeansofegress

7.8.5.1 Scope
Thissubsectionappliestoalldoorsinameansofegressexceptexteriordoorsservingnotmorethan1
dwellingunitunlessotherwisestatedherein.

7.8.5.2 Doorobstructions
Exitdoorsshallnotdecreasetherequiredexitwidthbymorethan50mmforeachfullunitofexitwidth
(560mm)andwheresuchdoorsleadoutofstairsorrampsinthedirectionofexittraveltheyshallnot
belessthanofthewidthofsuchstairsorramps.

7.8.5.3 Doorsoverlandings
Doorsintheirswingshallnotreducetheeffectivewidthofexitstairsorlandingstolessthan760mmnor
shalltheyreducetheeffectivewidthofanexitpassagewaytolessthantherequiredwidth.

7.8.5.4 Doorclosureheadroom
Nodoorcloserorotherdeviceshallbeinstalledinanexitinsuchamannerastoreducetheheadroom
clearancetolessthan1.98m.

7.8.5.5 Doorheightandwidth
Anexitdoororadoorthatopenstoorislocatedinapubliccorridororotherfacilityprovidingaccessto
exit from individually rented rooms, suites of rooms or dwelling units shall be not less than 2.05m in
height. ExceptasrequiredinArticles7.5.3.1and7.8.5.2,such doorsshallbeatleast815mminwidth
when only one (1) door leaf is installed in an opening and 610mm in width where more than one (1)
doorleafisprovidedinthewidthofanopening.Thewidthofanindividualdoorleafshallnotexceed
1.22minsuchopening.

7.8.5.6 Directionofdoorswing
Everydoorthatopensontoacorridororotherfacilitythatprovidesaccesstoexitfromaroomorsuite
ofroomswheresuchroomorsuiteofroomsisusedorintendedforusebymorethansixty(60)persons;
andeverydoorthatislocatedwithinacorridorthatisrequiredtobeseparatedfromtheremainderof
thefloorareabyafireseparation,shallswingonaverticalaxisinthedirectionofexittravelandshall
notopenontoastep.

7.8.5.7 Sizeoflandings
Whereanexitdooropensontoalanding,thelandingshallbenotlessthan300mmwiderandlonger
thanthewidthofthe door.Such doorseitherin theopenorclosedpositionshallnotbecloserthan
300mmtothenearestriser.

7.8.5.8 Exitdoorswing
Everyrequiredexitdoorincludinganexitdoorservingnotmorethanone(1)dwellingunitshall
swingonaverticalaxis.Suchdoorshallopeninthedirectionofexittravelexceptthatadoorserving
notmorethanone(1)dwellingunitispermittedtoswinginward.

7.8.5.9 Revolvingdoors
Revolving doors used as exits shall be of an approved collapsible type, and shall be permitted only at
ground floor level away from the foot of any stairway. Not more than unit of exit width may be
assumedforsuchdoors.Swingdoorsshallbeprovidedadjacenttosuchdoors.
32

7.8.5.10Automaticlockingprohibited
Exceptforhotelsandmotels,adooropeningintoapubliccorridorwhichprovidesaccesstoexitfrom
individually owned or rented rooms, suites of rooms or dwelling units shall be designed not to lock
automaticallywhensuchdoorsareequippedwithautomaticselfclosingdevices.

7.8.6Exitsfromfloorareas

7.8.6.1 Numberofexits
Except as provided in Article 7.8.6.6 and 7.8.6.7, at least two (2) exits shall be provided from every
storeyspacesothatthetraveldistancetothenearestexitshallbenotgreaterthan38.0minthecaseof
businessandpersonalservicesoccupanciesand30.5mforallotheroccupancies(seeArticle7.8.6.2for
explanationoftraveldistance)

7.8.6.2 Traveldistance
ForthepurposeofthisSubsection,traveldistancemeansthedistancefromanypointinthefloorarea
to an exit measured along the path of exit travel, except that when a floor area is subdivided into
individually owned or rented rooms, suites of rooms or dwelling units, and is served by a corridor
requiredtoprovideafireseparationfromsuchadjacentrooms,suitesofroomsordwellingunitsorby
anexteriorpassageway,thetraveldistanceshallbemeasuredfromthedoorofsuchrooms,suitesof
roomsordwellingunitstothenearestexit.

7.8.6.3 Horizontalexits
Notmorethantherequiredexitsfromafloorareamaybehorizontalexits.

7.8.6.4 SizeofExits
Wheremorethanone(1)exitisrequiredfromanarea,eachexitshallbeconsideredascontributingnot
morethantherequiredunitsofexitwidth.

7.8.6.5 Distancebetweenexits
Wheremorethanone(1)exitisrequiredfromafloorarea,atleasttwo(2)exitsshallbeindependentof
eachotherandbeplacedremotefromeachotheralongthepathoftravelbetweenthem.

7.8.6.6 Singleexitpermitted
In buildings one (1) and two (2) storeys in building height, a single exit is permitted from each storey
providedthefloorareaandtraveldistancerequirementsconformtoTable7.8.6.A.

Table7.8.6.A(FormingpartofArticle7.8.6.6)
Singleexitsfromfloorareas
OccupancyofFloorArea
MaximumFloorArea(m2)
MaximumTravelDistance(m)
(1)
(2),(3)

GroupI
92.90
15.24
GroupB
185.81
22.86
GroupM
139.35
15.24
GroupF
139.35
10.67

33


NotestoTable7.8.6.A
(1) SeeArticle7.8.6.2forexplanationoftraveldistance

(2) Singleexitpermittedonlywhensuchexitisanexteriordooratorneargroundlevel.

(3) SeeArticle7.8.6.7fordwellingunits

7.8.6.7 Exitsfordwellingunits
Adwellingunitcontainingmorethanonestoreyshallhaveanexitordoorwayontoapublicaccessto
exitfromeachofitstopandbottomstoreysexceptthatasingleexitispermittedfromadwellingunit
providedtheexitisanexteriordoorleadingdirectlyfromastoreyofthedwellingunitatorneargrade.
Thefloorleveloftheuppermoststoreyofsuchdwellingunitshallnotbemorethan6.10mabovethe
floorlevelofthestoreycontainingtheexit.

7.8.6.8 Exitsthroughlobbies
Notmorethanone(1)exitfromafloorareaaboveorbelowthemainentrancelobbyshallleadthrough
the lobby. Such lobby shall be not more than 4.60m above grade floor level, and the path of travel
through the lobby shall not exceed 15.25m. The lobby shall conform in all respects with the
requirementsforexits,exceptthatroomsotherthangarbagerooms,boilerroomsandroomscontaining
aresidentialoccupancymayopendirectlyontosuchlobby.

7.8.7 Exitsigns

7.8.7.1 Scope
Thissubsectionappliestoallexitsexceptthoseservingnotmorethanone(1)dwellingunit.

7.8.7.2 Location
Exitsshallbelocatedsoastobeclearlyvisibleortheirlocationshallbeclearlyindicated.

7.8.7.3 Except for the main entrance door to a building, every exit in a 3storey building having an
occupantloadgreaterthan120,shallhaveanexitsignoverit.

7.8.7.4 Exitdirectionsign
Exit direction signs shall be placed in corridors and passageways where necessary to indicate the
directionofexittravel.

7.8.7.5 Exitsignsshallbeinstalledsoastobevisiblefromtheexitapproach.Suchsignsshallhavethe
wordEXITingreenlettersonacontrastingbackgroundorwhitelettersonagreenbackgroundwhen
the sign is internally lighted, and white letter on a green background or green letters on a white
background when the sign is externally lighted. Lettering shall be made with at least 20mmwide
strokesandbeatleast150mmhighwhenthesignsareexternallylighted,andatleast115mmhighifthe
signisinternallylighted.

7.8.7.6Exitlighting

Atleastoneemergencylightingshallbeprovidedalongtheescaperoute.
34

7.9FIREHAZARDPROTECTION

7.9.1 Scope

7.9.1.1 Scopeoffireprotection
Thissectioncontainsrequirementstoprotectlivesoftheoccupantsandalsoresistthespreadoffireto
otherbuildings.

7.9.2 Spatialseparationsbetweenbuildings

7.9.2.1 Except as provided in Article 7.9.2.2, the maximum percentage of unprotected openings in an
exposingbuildingfaceshallconformtosubsection3.1.7ofPart3ofthisCode.

7.9.2.2 Where a volunteer fire department is not available, the limiting distance determined from
Article7.9.2.1shallbedoubled.

7.9.3Firefightingequipment
Thereshallbeportablefireextinguishers,hoserailsandothersuppressingsystemswhereapplicable.

7.9.4Firedetection
Thereshallbesmokedetectors,corepoints,soundersandcontrolpanelwhereapplicable.

7.9.5LiquifiedPetroleumGas(LPG)
ForLPGanditsregulations,seePart9.7:GasSupply.

7.10 SITEPREPARATION

7.10.1 General

7.10.1.1Thetopsoilandvegetablematterinallunexcavatedareasunderabuildingshallberemoved.
Allstumps,rootsandotherwooddebrisshallberemovedfromthesoiltoaminimumdepthof300mm
inunexcavatedareasunderabuilding.

7.10.1.2Thebottomofeveryexcavationshallbefreeofallorganicmaterials.

7.10.1.3Waterremoved
Excavationsshallbekeptfreeofstandingwater.

7.10.2 Backfill

7.10.2.1Placing
Backfillshallbeplacedtoavoiddamagingthedrainagetileorthewaterproofingofwalls

7.10.2.2Grading
Backfillshallbegradedtopreventdrainagetowardsthefoundationaftersettling.

35

7.10.2.3Boulders
Backfill within 60mm of the foundation shall be free of deleterious debris and boulders larger than
250mmdiameter.

7.11 WATERPROOFINGANDDAMPPROOFING

7.11.1 General

7.11.1.1Waterproofingofwalls
Where hydrostatic pressure occurs, floors on ground and exterior surface of walls below ground level
shallbewaterproofed.

7.11.1.2DampproofingofWalls
Wherehydrostaticpressuredoesnotoccurandtheexteriorfinishedgroundlevelisatahigherelevation
thanthegroundlevelinsidethefoundationwalls,theexteriorsurfaceoffoundationwallsbelowground
levelshallbedampproof.

7.11.1.3 Any part of a building next to the ground shall have a floor which is so constructed as to
preventthepassageofmoisturefromthegroundtotheuppersurfaceofthefloor.

7.11.1.4 Any floor which is next to the ground shall be so constructed as to prevent any part of the
floorbeingadverselyaffectedbymoistureorwatervapourfromtheground.

7.11.1.5 No hardcore laid under a floor which is next to the ground shall contain watersoluble
sulphatesorotherdeleteriousmatterinsuchquantitiesastobeliabletocausedamagetoanypartof
thefloor.

7.12 DRAINAGE

7.12.1 Scope

7.12.1.1Drainage
ThisSectionappliestosubsurfacedrainageandtosurfacedrainage

7.12.1.2FloorSlabs
DrainagerequirementsbeneathfloorslabsshallconformtoSection7.14.

7.12.2 Installation

7.12.2.1Draintileorpipeshallbelaidonfirm,undisturbedorwellcompactedsoil.

7.12.2.2Granularcover
Thetopandsidesofdrainpipesshallbecoveredwithnotlessthan150mmofcrushedstoneorother
cleangranularmaterials.

36

7.12.3 Drainagedisposal

7.12.3.1Drainpipesshalldraintoasewer,drainditchordrywell.

7.12.3.2Drywells
Dry wells shall be not less than 4.60m from any building foundations and located so that drainage is
away from the building. Dry wells may be used only when located in areas where the natural
groundwaterlevelisbelowthebottomofthedrywell.

7.12.3.3Boreholesandwaterstoragesystems
Theseshouldbelocatedbelowseptictanksanddrywells.

7.12.4 Surfacedrainage

7.12.4.1Surfacedrainage
Thebuildingshallbelocatedorthebuildingsitegradedsothatwaterwillnotaccumulateatornearthe
building.

7.12.4.2Surfacedrainageshallbedirectedawayfromthelocationofanywatersupplywellorseptic
tankdisposalbed.

7.12.4.3Interferencewithsurfacedrainage
Where runoff water from a drive wayis likely to accumulate or enter a garage, a catch basin shall be
installedtoprovideadequatedrainage.

7.12.4.4Downspouts
Wheredownspoutsareprovidedandarenotconnectedtoasewer,provisionsshallbemadetoprevent
soilerosion.

7.13 FOOTINGSANDFOUNDATIONS

7.13.1 Scope

7.13.1.1Scope
Thissectionappliestofoundationsofcastinplaceconcreteorunitmasonryfoundationwallsandcast
inplace footings constructed on soils and where the building is of other than concrete or steel frame
construction.Wherethefoundationconsistsofothermaterialssuchasprecastconcrete,steelorwood,
thefoundationshallbedesignedinconformancewiththeappropriateprovisionsofPart5ofthisCode.

7.13.2 General

7.13.2.1Thefoundationofabuildingshall:
1) safelysustainandtransmittothegroundthe combineddeadload,imposedloadandwindor
earthquake load in such a manner as not to cause any settlement or other movement which
wouldimpairthestabilityof,orcausedamageto,thewholeoranypartofthebuildingorofany
adjoiningbuildingorworks;

37

2) betakentosuchadepthorbesoconstructed,astosafeguardthebuildingagainstdamageby
swellingandshrinkingofthesubsoil;and

3) be capable of adequately resisting any attack by sulphates or any other deleterious matter
presentinthesubsoil.

7.13.2.2Deviationfromspecificrequirements
Theauthorityhavingjurisdiction maypermitafoundationdesigntodeviate fromtherequirementsin
this section where it is designed for the existing conditions in accordance with accepted engineering
practiceorwherepastexperienceshowsthefoundationdesigntobeadequate.

7.13.2.3Concrete
Concrete shall conform to Section 7.2. Concrete for unreinforced footings and foundation walls shall
haveaminimum(100mmcube)compressivestrengthof7N/mm2after28daysorintheproportionof
50kgofcementtonotmorethan0.1m3offineaggregateand0.2m3ofcoarseaggregate.

7.13.2.4Mortar,mortarjointsandcorbels
Mortar,mortarjoints,corbellingandprotectionforunitmasonryshallconformtoSection7.16.

7.13.2.5Piers
Wherepiertypefoundationsareused,thepiersshallbedesignedtosupporttheappliedloadsfrom
thesuperstructureinconformancewithgoodengineeringpractice.

7.13.2.6Wherepiersareusedasafoundationsysteminabuildingofonestoreyinbuildingheight,the
piers shall be installed to support the principal framing members and shall be spaced not more than
3.60mapartalongtheframing,unlessthepiersandtheirfootingsaredesignedforlargerspacing.The
heightofsuchpiersshallnotexceedthree(3)timestheirleastbasedimensionatthebaseofthepier.
Wheresandcreteblockpiersareused,andwhenthewidthofthebuildingis4.20morless,theyshallbe
laidwiththeirlongestdimensionatrightanglestothelongestdimensionofthebuilding.

7.13.3 Footing(stripfoundations)

7.13.3.1Whererequired
Footingsshallbeprovidedunderwalls,pilasters,columns,piersandchimneysthatbearonsoilorrock.

7.13.3.2Ifthefoundationsofabuildingareconstructedasstripfoundationsofplainconcretesituated
centrallyunderthewalls,thestripfoundationsshallrestonundisturbedsoilorengineeredfillorrock.
Thereshallnotbeawidevariationinthetypeofsubsoilwithintheloadedareaandnoweakertypeof
soilbelowthesoilonwhichthefoundationsrestwithinsuchadepthasmayimpairthestabilityofthe
structure.

7.13.3.3Footingwidth
The width of the strip foundations shall not be less than the width specified in Table 7.13.3.A in
accordancewiththerelatedparticularsspecifiedintheTable.

38

7.13.3.4Footingthickness
Thethicknessofthestripfoundationsshallnotbelessthanitsprojection(45)fromthefaceofthewall
orfootingandshallinnocasebelessthan150mm.

7.13.3.5Footingoverlap
Where the strip foundations are laid at more than one level at each change of level, the higher
foundations shall extend over and unite with the lower foundations for a distance not less than the
thicknessofthefoundationsandinnocaselessthan300mm.

7.13.3.6Wherethereisapier,buttressorchimneyorchimneyformingpartofawall,thefoundations
shallprojectbeyondthepier,buttressorchimneyonallsidestoatleastthesameextentastheyproject
beyondthewall.

7.14 SLABSONGROUND

7.14.1 Scope

7.14.1.1Slabsongrade
Thissectionappliestobasementandcellarslabsandtofloorslabsongradewithperimeterfoundation
wallsthatsupportthesuperstructure.

7.14.1.2Designoffloorslabsongrade
Floorslabsongradewithoutfoundationwallstosupport thesuperstructureshallbedesignedfor the
existingsoilconditionsinaccordancewithapprovedengineeringpracticeandpastpracticeintheareain
whichtheslabistobebuilt.

7.14.2 Slabsupports

7.14.2.1Granularfill
Whengranularfillisusedbeneathbasementandcellarslabitshallconsistofnotlessthan150mmof
coarsecleangranularmaterial.

7.14.2.2Hardcore
The hardcore beneath concrete slabsongrade shall be compacted. Not less than 150mm of coarse,
cleangranularmaterialshallbeprovidedbeneaththeslabandshallbecompacted.

7.14.3 Dampproofingandwaterproofing

7.14.3.1 Dampproofing and waterproofing of basement and cellar slabs and slabsongrade shall
conformtoSection7.11

7.14.4 Drainages

7.14.4.1Upliftpressures
Where groundwater levels may cause uplift pressures against the bottom of slabbelowgrade, lateral
drains (French drains) shall be installed under the slab or the slab be designed to resist such uplift
pressures.
39

7.14.4.2Drainage
Theaccumulationofwaterunderneathaslabongradeshallbepreventedbygrading,drainageorother
method.

7.14.4.3 Where floor drains are installed, the floor surface shall be so sloped that water will run off
quickly.

Table7.13.3.4
(Formingpartofarticle7.13.3.3)
Minimumwidthofstripfoundation

Condition

Rock
II
Gravel
Sand

III
Clay
SandyClay

IV
Clay
SandyClay

V
Sand

SiltySand
ClayeySand
VI
Silt
Clay
SandyClay
SiltyClay
VII
Silt
Clay
SandyClay
Silty

TypeofSubsoil

Fieldtestapplicable

Not
inferior
to Requires at least a
sandstoneorlimestone pneumatic or other
mechanically
operated
pickforexcavation

Requires
pick
for
Compact
excavation. Wooden peg
Compact
50mm square in cross
section hard to drive
beyond150mm

Cannot be moulded with

Stiff
fingerandrequiredapick
Stiff
or pneumatic or other
mechanically
operated
spadeforitsremoval

Can be moulded by
Firm
substantial pressure with
Firm
the finger and can be
excavated with graft or
spade

Loose

Loose
Loose

Soft
Soft
Soft
Soft

VerySoft
VerySoft
VerySoft
VerySoft

Can be excavated with

spade. Wooden peg
50mm square in cross
section can be easily
driven

Fairly easily moulded in

the fingers and readily
excavated

250300400500600650

250350450600750850

400 600 Note: In relation to types V,VI and VII,

foundations do not fall within the provisions of
Subsection 7.13.3 if the total load exceeds
30KN/m (ie, width of foundations to
becalculated)

450650

Natural sample in rainy

season exuded between 600850
fingers when squeezed in
fist

40

Minimum width in millimeters for total load in kilonewtons per

linearmetreofloadbearingwallingofnotmorethan
203040506070
KN/mKN/mKN/mKN/mKN/mKN/m

Ineachcaseequaltothewidthofwall

250300400500600650

7.14.5 Thicknessandheight

7.14.5.1Thickness
Concreteslabsongroundshallnotbelessthan100mmthickexclusiveofscreed.Theconcreteshallbe
composedofcement,fineandcoarseaggregatesintheproportionsof50kgofcementtonotmorethan
1.0m3ofcoarseaggregates.Whenscreedisprovideditshallbenotlessthan20mmthick.

7.14.5.2Heightabovegroundlevel
Thetopofeveryslabongradeshallbenotlessthan150mmaboveexteriorfinishedgroundlevel.

7.14.6 Pipesandducts

7.14.6.1Encasementofducts
Ductsinslabsshallbecompletelyencasedwithnotlessthan50mmofconcrete,andinstalledsothat
waterwillnotaccumulateintheducts.

7.14.7 Joints

7.14.7.1 Joints between slabonground and foundation walls, and spaces around pipes, conduits or
ductsthatpenetratesuchslabsshallbefilledwithbitumenorotherfillerapprovedforthispurpose.

7.15 COLUMNS

7.15.1 Scope

7.15.1.1Scope
ThisSectionappliestocolumnsusedtosupportcarportroofs,andbeamscarryingloadsfromnotmore
than2woodframefloorswherethelengthofjoistscarriedbysuchbeamsdoesnotexceed4.80mand
theliveloadonanyfloordoesnotexceed2.5kN/m2.

7.15.1.2 Columns for applications other than as described in Article 7.15.1.1 shall be designed in
accordancewithapprovedengineeringpractice.

7.15.2 General

7.15.2.1Columnsupport
ColumnsshallbecentrallylocatedonafootingconformingtoSection7.13.

7.15.2.2Columnsshallbesecurelyfastenedtothesupportedmembertopreventlateralmovement.

7.15.3 Steelcolumns

7.15.3.1Size
Except as permitted in Article 7.15.3.2, steel pipe columns shall have a minimum outside diameter of
75mmandaminimumwallthicknessof5.00mm.

41

7.15.3.2Exception
Columns of sizes other than as specified in Article 7.15.3.1 may be used where the loadbearing
capacitiesareshowntobeadequate.

7.15.3.3Bearingplates
Except as permitted in Article 7.15.3.4, steel columns shall be fitted with not less than 100mm by
100mmby6mmthicksteelplatesateachend,andwherethecolumnsupportsawoodenbeam,thetop
plateshallextendacrossthefullwidthofthebeam.

7.15.3.4Exception
Thetop platerequiredinArticle7.15.3.3maybeomittedwhereacolumnsupportsasteelbeamand
provisionismadefortheattachmentofthecolumntothebeambyweldingorotherapprovedmethod.

7.15.3.5Rustprevention
Steelcolumnsshallbetreatedontheoutsidesurfacewithatleastonecoatofrustinhibitivepaint.

7.15.4 Woodcolumns

7.15.4.1Scope
The width or diameter of a wood column shall be not less than the width of the supported member.
Except as provided in Article 7.15.4.2, columns shall be not less than 200mm for round columns and
150mm by 150mm for rectangular columns, unless calculations are provided to show that lesser sizes
areadequate.

7.15.4.2Woodcolumnsforgaragesandcarportsmaybe100mmby100mm.

7.15.4.3Construction
Woodcolumnsshallbeeithersolid,gluedlaminatedorbuiltup.Builtupcolumnsshallconsistofnot
less than 50mm thick fulllength members bolted together with not less than 10mm diameter bolts
spaced not more than 450mm centres, or nailed together with not less than 75mm nails spaced not
morethan300mmcentres.

7.15.4.4Dampproofing
Treated wood columns shall be separated from concrete in contact with the ground by an approved
dampproofingmaterial.

7.15.5 Unitmasonrycolumns

7.15.5.1Material
Unitmasonrycolumnsshallbebuiltofloadbearingmasonryunits.

7.15.5.2Size
Unit masonry columns shall have minimum nominal dimensions of 300mm by 300mm or 250mm by
400mm.

42

7.15.6 Solidconcretecolumns

7.15.6.1Material

ConcreteshallconformtoSection7.2

7.15.6.2Size
Concrete columns shall not be less than 200mm by 200mm for rectangular columns and 225 mm
diameterforcircularcolumns

7.16. MASONRY(BRICKS,BLOCKSORSANDCRETE)

7.16.1 Scope

7.16.1.1ThisSectionappliestounreinforcedmasonryandmasonryveneerinwhichthewallabovethe
foundationdoesnotexceed7.60mandinwhichtherooforfloorsystemabovethefirststoreyisnotof
concreteconstruction.

7.16.1.2ForbuildingsotherthanthosedescribedinArticle7.16.1.1orwherethemasonryisdesigned
onthebasisofdesignloadsandallowablestresses,structuralmembersofunreinforcedmasonryshall
conformtoBS5628:Part1:1978Structuraluseofmasonry.

7.16.1.3InSeismicZone3,loadbearingelementsofmasonrybuildingsmorethanonestoreyinheight
shall be reinforced with at least the minimum amount of reinforcement as required in Subsection
7.16.11.

7.16.1.4InSeismicZone2,loadbearingelementsofthreestoreymasonrybuildingshallbereinforced
withatleasttheminimumamountofreinforcementasrequiredinSubsection7.16.11.

7.16.2 Masonryunits

7.16.2.1Materialsspecificationsformasonryunits
Masonryunitsshallcomplywithoneofthefollowing:
BS3921:Claybricksandblocks
BS2028:Precastconcreteblocks

7.16.2.2Usedmasonry
Used bricks shall be free of old mortar, soot or other surface coating and shall conform to Article
7.16.2.1

7.16.2.3Compressivestrength
ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.16.2.1,thecompressivestrengthofmasonryunitsinawallofahouseof
oneortwostoreysorofabuildingofoneortwostoreyswhichisdividedintoflats,shallnotbelessthan
2.75N/mm2forblocksand5.2N/mm2forbricks.

43

7.16.2.4Thecompressivestrengthofbricksandblocksfornonloadbearingpartitionsshallnotbeless
than1.4N/mm2providedthebricksandblocksaresatisfactoryinotherrespects.

7.16.3 Mortar

7.16.3.1Lime
Limeusedinmortarshallbehydrated.

7.16.3.2Mortarmixes
Mortar mixes shall conform to Table 7.16.3.A. Mortar containing Portland cement shall not be used
laterthan2hoursaftermixing.

Table7.16.3.A
(FormingPartofArticle7.16.3.2)
Mortarmixproportions(byvolume)

PermissibleUseof
Mortar

Alllocations

Cement

Lime

Sand

1
1
1

1
2

5to6
8to9
5to6

7.16.4 Mortarjoints

7.16.4.1Mortarjointthickness
Themaximumaveragejointthicknessshallbe12mm.Maximumthicknessofanindividualjointshallbe
20mm.

7.16.4.2Solidmasonryjoints
Solidmasonryunitsshallbelaidwithfullheadandbedjoints.

7.16.4.3Hollowmasonryjoints
Hollowmasonryunitsshallbelaidwithmortarappliedtoheadandbedjointsofbothinnerandouter
faceshells.

7.16.5 Masonrysupport

7.16.5.1Masonrysupport
Allmasonryshallbesupportedonmasonry,concreteorsteel.

44

7.16.5.2Lintels
Masonry over openings shall be supported by steel, reinforced concrete or masonry lintels or arches
designedtosupporttheimposedload.

7.16.5.3Everymasonrywallshallbeatleastasthickasthewallitsupports.

7.16.6 Thicknessandheight

7.16.6.1Thicknessofsolidexternalwalls
Masonryexternalwallsotherthancavitywallsinonestoreybuildingsandthetopstoreysoftwostorey
buildings shall be not less than 140mm thick provided the walls are not more than 2.75m high at the
eaves and 4.60m high at the peaks of gable ends. The external walls of the bottom storeys of two
storeysbuildingsshallnotbelessthan215mm.

7.16.6.2Thicknessofinteriorwalls
ThethicknessofloadbearinginteriorwallsshallbedeterminedonthebasisofArticle7.16.9.1

7.16.6.3Interiornonloadbearingpartitionsshallbenotlessthan70mmthick
(seeArticle7.16.9.1).

7.16.6.4Masonryveneer
Masonryveneerrestingonabearingsupportshallbeofsolidunitsnotlessthan75mm thickforwall
heights up to 12m. Such veneer over woodframe walls shall have not less than a 25mm air space
behindtheveneer.Masonryveneerlessthan90mmthickshallhaveunrakedjoints.

7.16.6.5Parapetwalls
The height of parapet walls above the adjacent roof surface shall be not more than three times the
parapetwallthickness.

7.16.7 Chasesandrecesses

7.16.7.1Sizeofchasesandrecesses
ExceptaspermittedinArticle7.16.7.3,thedepthofanychaseorrecessshallnotexceedthethickness
ofthewallandthehorizontalprojectionofthechaseorrecessshallnotexceed500mm.

7.16.7.2Locationofchasesandrecesses
Chasesandrecessesshallbenotlessthanfourtimesthewallthicknessapartandnotlessthan600mm
awayfromanypilaster,crosswall,buttressorotherverticalelementprovidingrequiredlateralsupport
forthewall.

7.16.7.3Oversizedchasesandrecesses
ChasesorrecessesthatdonotconformtothelimitsspecifiedinArticles7.16.7.1and7.16.7.2shallbe
consideredasopeningandanymasonrysupportedabovesuchachaseorrecessshallbesupportedbya
lintelorarch.

45

7.16.8 Supportofloads

7.16.8.1Cappingofwalls
Loadbearing walls of hollow masonry units supporting roof or floor framing members shall be capped
withnotlessthan50mmofsolidmasonry,orhavethetopcoursefilledwithconcrete.Cappingmaybe
omittedwheretheframingissupportedonawoodplatenotlessthan50mmthick,thesamewidthas
themasonrywall.

7.16.8.2Bearingarea
Thebearingareaunderbeamsandjoistsshallbesufficienttocarrythesupportedload.Innocaseshall
theminimumlengthofendbearingofbeamssupportedmasonrybelessthan90mm.Thelengthofend
bearingoffloor,rooforceilingjoistssupportedonmasonryshallbenotlessthan40mm.

7.16.9 Lateralsupport

7.16.9.1Lateralsupportofmasonrywalls
Masonrywallsandpartitionsshallbesupportedatrightanglestothewallbyfloororroofconstruction
or by intersecting masonry walls or buttresses. The spacing of such supports shall conform to Table
7.16.9.A

7.16.9.2FloorandroofconstructionsprovidingrequiredlateralsupportforwallsasrequiredinArticle
7.16.9.1shallbeconstructedtotransferlateralloadstowallsorbuttressesapproximatelyatrightangles
tothelaterallysupportedwalls.

Table7.16.9.A
(FormingpartofArticle7.16.9.1)
MaximumDistancesBetweenlateralwallsupports

Typeofwall

Loadbearingwallsofsolidunits

Loadbearingwallsofhollowunitsorcavitywalls

Nonloadbearingwallsorpartitions

MaximumSpacingofSupports

20timesthewallthickness

18timesthewallthickness

36timesthewallthickness

7.16.10Exteriorfinish

7.16.10.1SandcreteBlockExteriorFinish
Abovegrade external walls of sandcrete block shall be stuccoed, painted or otherwise finished to
providebreathertypewaterrepellency.

46

7.16.11Reinforcementforearthquakeresistance

7.16.11.1Wherereinforcementisrequiredinthissection,masonrywallsshallbereinforcedhorizontally
and vertically with steel having a total crosssectional area of not less than 0.002 times the cross
sectionalareaofthewall,sothatnotlessthanoftherequiredareaisinstalledeitherhorizontallyor
verticallyandtheremainingintheotherdirection.

7.17 WOODFRAMECONSTRUCTION

7.17.1Scope

7.17.1.1Woodframeconstruction
Thissectionappliestoconventionalwoodframeconstructioninwhichtheframingmembersarespaced
notmorethan600mmcentres.

7.17.1.2Designliveload
Therequirementsinthissectionwithregardtofloorframing,subflooringandtheirfasteningsapplyto
floorsforwhichthedesignliveloaddoesnotexceed2.5KN/m2.

7.17.1.3 The requirement in this section with regard to wall framing and its fastenings apply to walls
whichsupportfloorsforwhichthedesignliveloaddoesnotexceed2.5KN/m2onanyfloor.

7.17.1.4 Where the conditions in Article 7.17.1.2 or 7.17.1.3 are exceeded, the design of the framing
andfasteningshallconformtoPart5ofthisCode.

7.17.1.5Post,beamandplankconstructionandplankframewallconstructionshallconformtoSection
7.18.

7.17.2 General

7.17.2.1Rigidity
Allmembersshallbesoframed,anchored,fastened,tiedandbracedtoprovidethenecessarystrength
andrigidity.

7.17.2.2Treatmentofendmembers
Endsofwoodjoistsorbeamsandothermembersframingintomasonryorconcreteshallbetreatedto
preventdecaywherethebottomofthememberisatorbelowgroundlevel,ora15mmairspaceshall
beprovidedattheendsidesofthemember.

7.17.2.3Woodframingmembersthatarenotpressuretreatedwithwoodpreservativeandwhichare
supportedonaconcreteincontactwiththegroundorfillshallbeseparatedfromtheconcretebyan
approved damp proofing material, except that such damp proofing is not required where the wood
memberisaleast150mmabovetheground.

47

7.17.3 Nailsandstaples

7.17.3.1Nailsandstaplesspecification
Nailsspecifiedinthissectionshallbecommonsteelwirenailsorcommonspiralnailsunlessotherwise
indicated.Othernailsprovidingatleastequivalentperformancemayalsobeused.

7.17.3.2Naillength
Allnailsshallbelongenoughsothatnotlessthanhalftheirlengthpenetratesintothesecondmember.
Splittingofwoodmembersshallbeminimizedbystaggeringthenailsinthedirectionofthegrainandby
keepingnailswellinfromtheedges.

7.17.4 Allowablespans

7.17.4.1Thespansofwoodjoists,raftersandbeamsshallbedeterminedinconformancewithPart5of
thisCode.

7.17.5 Notchinganddrilling

7.17.5.1Notchesanddrilling
Holes drilled in roof, floor or ceiling framing members shall be not larger than the depth of the
memberandshallbelocatednotlessthan50mmfromtheedges,unlessthedepthofthememberis
increasedbythesizeofthehole.

7.17.5.2Floor,roofandceilingframingmembersmaybenotchedprovidedthenotchislocatedonthe
topofthememberwithinthejoistdepthfromtheedgeofbearingandisnotdeeperthanthejoist
depth,unlessthedepthofthememberisincreasedbythesizeofthenotch.

7.17.5.3Wallstudsshallnotbenotched,drilledorotherwisedamagedsothattheundamagedportion
ofthestudislessthanthedepthofthestudifthestudisloadbearingor40mmifthestudisnon
loadbearing,unlesstheweakenedstudsaresuitablyreinforced.

7.17.5.4 The top plates in loadbearing walls and partitions shall not be notched, drilled or otherwise
weakenedtoreducetheundamagedwidthtolessthan50mm,unlesstheweakenedplatesaresuitably
reinforced.

7.17.5.5Rooftrussmembersshallnotbenotched,drilledorotherwiseweakenedunlesssuchnotching
ordrillingisallowedforinthedesignofthetruss.

7.17.6 Anchorage

7.17.6.1Anchorage
Buildingframesshallbeanchoredtothefoundation,unlessastructuralanalysisofthewindandearth
pressuresshowsanchorageisnotrequired.

7.17.6.2Anchorageshallbeprovidedbyembeddingtheendsofthegroundfloorjoistsinconcrete,or
fastening the sill plate to the foundation with not less than 13mm diameter anchor bolts spaced not

48

morethan2.5mmcentres.Suchanchorboltsshallbeembeddednolessthan100mminthefoundation
andsodesignedthattheymaybetightenedwithoutwithdrawingthemfromthefoundation.

7.17.6.3Exteriorcolumnsandpostsshallbeanchoredtoresistupliftandlateralmovement.

7.17.7 Sillplates

7.17.7.1Sillplates
Where sill plates provide bearing for the floor system, they shall be not less than 50mm by 100mm
material.

7.17.7.2Sillplatesshallbelevelledbysettingthemonafullbedofmortar,exceptthatwherethetopof
thefoundationisleveltheymaybelaiddirectlyonthefoundationprovidedthejunctionbetweenthe
foundationandthesillplateiscaulked.

7.17.8 Beamstosupportfloors

7.17.8.1Beams
Beamsshallhaveevenandlevelbearingtosupportfloors.Beamsshallhavenotlessthan90mmlength
ofbearingatendsupports.

7.17.8.2Builtupwoodbeams
Where a beam is made up of individual pieces of timber that are nailed together, the individual
membersshallbe50mmorgreaterinthicknessandinstalledonedge.

7.17.8.3WheretheindividualmembersofabeamdescribedinArticle7.17.8.2arebuttedtogetherto
formajoint,eachsuchjointshalloccuroverasupportoratorwithin150mmoftheendquarterpoints
oftheclearspanofthebeam.

7.17.8.4 Joints in individual members of beams that are located at or near the end quarter points
described in Article 7.17.8.3 shall not reduce the effective beam width by more than half. Members
joinedatquarterpointsshallbecontinuousovertheadjacentsupports.

7.17.8.5ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.17.8.6where50mmmembersarelaidonedgetoformabuilt
up beam, individual members shall be nailed together with a double row of nails at least 90mm in
length,spacednotmorethan450mmapartineachrowwiththeendnailslocated100mmto150mm
fromtheendofeachpiece.

7.17.8.6Where50mmmembersinbuiltupwoodbeamsarenotnailedtogetherasprovidedinArticle
7.17.8.5 they shall be bolted together with at least 13mm diameter bolts equipped with washers and
spacednotmorethan1.2mcentreswiththeendboltslocatednotmorethan600mmfromtheendsof
themembers.

49

7.17.9 Floorjoists

7.17.9.1Exceptwhensupportedonribbonboards,floorjoistsshallhavenotlessthan40mmlengthof
endbearing.Ribbonboardsshallbenotlessthan25mmby100mmtimberletintothestuds.

7.17.9.2Floorjoistsmaybesupportedonthetopofbeamsormaybeframedintothesidesofbeams.

7.17.9.3Whenframedintothesidesofawoodbeam,thejoistsshallbesupportedonjoisthangersor
otheracceptablemechanicalconnectorsoronnotlessthan50mmby75mmledgerstripsnailedtothe
sideofthebeam.

7.17.9.4 Unless ceiling furring or plywood cladding is installed on the underside of floor joists, floor
joists shall be restrained from twisting at the end supports and at intervals between supports not
exceeding2.10m.Suchrestraintmaybeprovidedattheendsupportsbytoenailingtothesupport,or
byendnailingthejoiststotheheaderjoist.

7.17.9.5Doublejoists
Header joists around floor openings shall be doubled when they exceed 1.2m in length. The size of
headerjoistsexceeding3.15minlengthshallbedeterminedbycalculations.

7.17.9.6 Trimmer joists around floor openings shall be doubled when the length of the header joist
exceeds810mm.Whentheheaderjoistexceeds2.03minlengththesizeofthetrimmerjoistsshallbe
determinedbycalculations.

7.17.9.7Supportofnonloadbearingpartitions
Nonloadbearing partitions parallel to floor joists shall be supported on beams, loadbearing walls or
doublejoistswherethepartitionisover1.8minlengthandcontainsopeningsthatarenotfullceiling
height. Where such partitions contain no openings or openings that are full ceiling heights, the joists
need not be doubled. Nonloadbearing partitions less than 1.8m in length need not be supported on
framingbutmaybesupportedbythesubfloor.Doubledjoistsmaybeseparatednotmorethan200mm
byblocking,iftheblockingisnotlessthan50mmby100mmtimberspacednotmorethan1.2mapart.

7.17.9.8Nonloadbearingpartitionsatrightanglestothefloorjoistsarenotrestrictedastolocation.

7.17.9.9Supportofloadbearingpartitions
Loadbearing interior walls parallel to floor joists shall be supported by beams of walls of sufficient
strengthtotransfersafely,thedesignloadstotheverticalsupports

7.17.9.10Locationofloadbearinginteriorwalls
Loadbearinginteriorwallsatrightanglestofloorjoistsshallbelocatednotmorethan900mmfromthe
joistsupportswhenthewalldoesnotsupportafloor,andnotmorethan600mmfromthejoistsupport
whenthewallsupportsonefloorunlessthejoistsizeisdesignedtosupportsuchloads.

50

7.17.10Wallstuds

7.17.10.1Wallstuds
Wallstudsshallbecontinuousforthefullstoreyheightexceptatopeningsandshallnotbespliced.

7.17.10.2Positionofwallstuds
Wallstudsshallbeplacedatrightanglestothewallface,exceptthatstudsontheflatmaybeusedin
gableendsofroofsthatcontainonlyunfinishedspaceorinnonloadbearingpartitions.

7.17.10.3Designofcornersandintersections
Corners and intersections shall be designed to provide adequate support for the vertical edges of
interior and exterior cladding materials, and in no instance shall exterior corners be framed with less
thantheequivalentoftwo(2)studs.

7.17.10.4Doublestuds
ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.17.10.5studsshallbedoubledoneachsideofopeningssothattheinner
studsextendfromthelinteltothebottomwallplateandtheouterstudsextendfromthetopwallplate
tothebottomwallplate.

7.17.10.5Singlestuds
Single studs may be used on either side of openings in nonloadbearing partitions provided the studs
extendfromthetopwallplatetothebottomwallplate.

7.17.10.6ThesizeandspacingofstudsshallconformtoTable7.17.10.A

Table7.17.10.A
(FormingpartofArticle7.17.10.6)
Sizeandspacingofstuds
Typeofwall

Interior

Exterior

Supported
Loads Minimum stud Maximum stud Maximum
(includingdeadloads)
size,mm
spacing,mm
unsupported
height,m
2.4
400

50by50

Noload

3.6
400
50by100
Roofloadorlimitedattic
50by100
600
3.0
storageplus1floor

50by75
400
3.6
2.4
400
Roof
50by75

3.6
400
50by100
Roof
50by75
400
3.0
50by100
600
3.0
Roofplus1floor
50by100
400
3.0
50by150
600
3.0

51

7.17.11Wallplates

7.17.11.1Wallplates
Wallplatesshallbenotlessthan50mmthickandshallbethesamewidthasthewallstuds,exceptthat
innonloadbearingpartitionsandinloadbearingwallswherethestudsarelocateddirectlyoverframing
members,thebottomwallplatemaybe20mmthick.

7.17.11.2Bottomwallplates
Abottomplateshallbeprovidedinallcases.Thebottomplateinexteriorwallsshallnotprojectmore
thantheplatewidthoverthesupport.

7.17.11.3Topplatesinloadbearingwalls
ExceptaspermittedinArticles7.17.11.4and7.17.11.5nofewerthantwotopplatesshallbeprovidedin
loadbearingwallsandpartitions.

7.17.11.4Asingletopplatemaybeusedinasectionofaloadbearingwallcontainingalintelprovided
thetopplateformsatieacrossthelintel.

7.17.11.5 A single top plate may be used in loadbearing wall where the concentrated loads from
ceilings,floorsandroofsarenotmorethan50mmtoonesideofthesupportingstudsandinallnon
loadbearingpartitions.

7.17.11.6Jointsintopplates
Jointsintopplatesofloadbearingwallsshallbestaggeredatleastone(1)studspacing.

7.17.11.7Tyingoftopplatesatcorners
Thetopplatesinloadbearingwallsshallbelappedorotherwisesuitablytiedatcornersandintersecting
walls.Jointsinsingletopplatesusedwithloadbearingwallsshallbesuitablytied.

7.17.12Framingoveropenings

7.17.12.1 Except as provided in Article 7.17.12.3 openings in nonloadbearing walls shall be bridged
withnotlessthan50mmmaterialthesamewidthasthestudsnailedtoadjacentstuds.

7.17.12.2 Openings in loadbearing walls shall be bridged with lintels designed to carry the super
imposedloadstoadjacentstuds.ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.17.12.3where2ormoremembersare
usedinlintels,theyshallbefastenedtogetherwithnotlessthan85mmnailsinadoublerow,withnails
notmorethan450mmapartineachrow.Thelintelmembersmaybeseparatedbyfillerpieces.

7.17.12.3Inloadbearingexteriorandinteriorwallsof50mmby75mmframingmembers,lintelsshall
consistofsolid75mmthickmembersonedgeor50mmthickand20mmthickmemberssecurelynailed
together.

52

7.17.13Bracing

7.17.13.1ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.17.13.2eachexteriorwallineachstoreyshallbebracedwith
atleastone(1)diagonalbraceconformingtoArticle7.17.13.3

7.17.13.2Bracingisnotrequiredwherewallsarecladwithpaneltypesheathingorpaneltypesiding.

7.17.13.3Wherebracingisrequired,itshallconsistofatleast25mmby100mmwoodmembersapplied
diagonally to the studs at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the horizontal extending the full
heightofthewalloneachstorey.Suchbracingshallbenailedtoeachstudandwallplatebyatleast
two63mmnails.

7.18 POSTBEAMANDPLANKCONSTRUCTION

7.18.1 Scope

7.18.1.1Thissectionappliestowoodframeconstructionwiththeloadbearingframingmembersspaced
morethan600mmapart.

7.18.2 General

7.18.2.1Thesizeandspacingofpostsandbeamsandthespanandthicknessoffloordeckingshallbe
calculatedinconformancewithPart5oftheCode.

7.18.2.2Requirementfornails,timber,notchinganddrillinganchorageandsillplatesshallconformto
Section7.17.

7.18.3 Decking

7.18.3.1Specificationsforfloorandroofdecking
Floorandroofdeckingshallconsistofnotlessthan50mmtimberlaidontheflatoredge.

7.18.3.2Plankfloordecking
Plankfloordeckinglaidontheflatshallbenotmorethan200mmwide.Suchdeckingshallbetongued
andgroovedorsplinedunlessaseparateunderlayisinstalledortheflooringconsistsofwoodstripslaid
atrightanglestothedecking.

7.18.4 Loadbearingbeams

7.18.4.1Loadbearingbeamsshallbesolid,builtup,gluedlaminatedorplywoodwebbeams.

7.18.4.2 Loadbearing roof beams shall be securely connected to the exterior wall framing and the
centreloadbearingwallorcentrebeamstoresistadequatelytheupliftforcesduetowind.

53

7.18.4.3 The length of end bearings for loadbearing beams shall be determined on the basis of
allowabledesignstressofwoodbutnotlessthan40mm.

7.18.4.4 When loadbearing beams are supported by mechanical connectors, the connectors shall be
capableofsupportingthedesignloads.

7.18.4.5Wherejointsinloadbearingbeamsdonotoccuroversolidsupports,jointsshallbedesigned
accordingtoapprovedpractice.

7.18.4.6Opposingloadbearingbeamsshallbetiedtogetheratthejointsbymeansofsplicesorsuitable
mechanicalconnectors.

7.18.4.7 Where secondary framing members span between floor beams, members and connections
shallbedesignedtosupporttherequireddesignloads.

7.18.4.8 Loads from loadbearing walls, columns or other concentrated loads shall be supported by
membersdesignedtocarrysuchloads.

7.18.5 Posts

7.18.5.1Postsshallbesolid,builtuporlaminated.

7.18.5.2Exteriorwallpost
Wherewallsheathingdoesnotprovidesuitableanchorage,exteriorwallpostsshallbeanchoredtothe
wallplatebynotlessthan1.2mmthicksteelanglesorotherapprovedanchors.

7.18.5.3Builtupposts
Solidpostsandindividualmembersinbuiltuppostsshallextendinonepiecethefullheightofthewall
storey.Builtupmembersshallbefastenedtogetherwithnailsspacednotmorethan300mmcentres
and at least twice as long as the individual member thickness, or with not less than 10mm diameter
boltsfittedwithwashersandspacednotmorethan450mmcentres.

7.18.5.4Intermediatestuds
Intermediatestudsorblockingshallbeprovidedbetweenpostsinpostandbeamwallsforthesupport
ofexteriorandinteriorcladding.IntermediatestudsshallconformtoSection7.18fornonloadbearing
studwalls.

7.18.6 Plankframewallconstruction

7.18.6.1 Thickness of plank framing in plank frame walls shall conform to Table 7.18.6A. The
unsupportedheightof50mmverticalplanknonloadbearingpartitionsshallnotexceed3.60m.

7.18.6.2Verticalframinginplankframewallsshallconsistofnotlessthan250mmwideplanksspaced
notmorethan2.40mcentres.

54

Table7.18.6.A
(FormingPartofArticle7.18.6.1)
Nominalthicknessofplankframing

Supportedload(includingdeadloadandceiling)

Roofwithorwithoutatticstorage

MinimumPlank
thickness,mm

50

Roofwithorwithoutatticstorageplusone(1)floor

50

Roofwithorwithoutatticstorageplustwo(2)floors

75

7.18.6.3Verticalframinginplankframewallsshallnotbearonwoodmemberswiththegrainatright
anglestotheverticalframingexceptwherebearingonsills.

7.18.6.4Cornersofplankframewallsshallbeformedbybuttingandfasteningtogetherthefaceand
edgeoftwoplanks.

7.18.6.5Verticalframinginplankframewallsshallbeprovidedoneachsideofeveryopening,except
that a window opening more than 750mm in width may be supported on one side only by a vertical
member.Insuchcases,theoppositejambofthewindoworshortuprighttowhichitisattachedshall
bear on the filler wall plank immediately below, which in turn shall be notched into the vertical
structuralmembersoneachside.

7.18.6.6 Where horizontal planks act as loadbearing lintels or headers, they shall be framed into the
verticalmembersbydovetailingsothatnotlessthana40mmlengthofbearingisprovided.

7.18.6.7 Openings in loadbearing plank frame walls shall be bridged with lintels designed to carry
superimposedloadstoadjacentmembers.

7.18.6.8Nonloadbearinghorizontalmembers(fillers)inplankframewallsshallbesecurelyfastenedto
theverticalframing.

7.19 ROOFING

7.19.1 General

7.19.1.1Roofprotection
Roofshallbeprotectedwithroofing,includingflashing,installedtoshedraineffectively.

7.19.2 Roofingmaterials

7.19.2.1Materialsspecification

Roofingmaterialsshallconformtothefollowing:
55

BS.
5247: Part14:1975,CodeofPracticeforsheetroofandwallcoverings
BS.
690
Part4:1974,Specificationforasbestoscementslatesandsheets

Part4:Slates
B.S402:
1974,Specificationsforclayplainroofingtilesandfittings.

7.19.2.2Roofingnails
Nails used for roofing shall be corrosionresistant roofing or shingles nails. Nails shall have sufficient
lengthtopenetratethroughor12mmintoroofsheathing.Nailsusedwithwoodshinglesorshakesshall
haveaheaddiameterofnotlessthan5mmandashankthicknessofnotlessthan2mm.

7.19.2.3Roofingstaples
Staples used to apply wood shingles shall be corrosionresistant and shall be driven with the crown
paralleltotheeaves.Staplesusedwithwoodshinglesshallbenotlessthan30mmlong,2mmdiameter
orthickness,withnotlessthan10mmcrown.

7.19.3 Roofslope

7.19.3.1Roofslopes
TheroofslopesonwhichroofcoveringmaybeappliedshallconformtoTable7.19.3A

7.19.4 Flashingatintersections

7.19.4.1Sheetmetalflashingshallconsistofnotlessthan1.70mmthicksheetlead,0.33mmgalvanized
steel,0.36mmthickcopper,0.46mmthickzincor0.48mmthickaluminium.

7.19.4.2Valleyflashing
Whereslopingsurfacesorshingledroofsintersecttoformavalley,thevalleyshallbeflashed.

7.19.4.3Openvalleyflashing
Openvalleysshallbeflashedwithnotlessthanonelayerofsheetmetalnotlessthan600mmwide.

56

Table7.19.3A
(FormingpartofArticle7.19.3.1)
Roofingtypesandslopelimitsofroofs

TypeofRoofing

BuiltupRoofing
Asphaltbase(graveled)
Asphaltbase(withoutgravel
Coaltarbase(graveled)

WoodShingles
Handsplitshakes
Cementpulpasbestoscorrugatedsheets
Sheetsmetalroofing
Corrugatedmetalroofing
Slateshingles
Claytile
Glassfibrereinforced

Polyesterroofingpanels

MinimumSlope

MaximumSlope

0in25
1in25
0in25

25in100
25in75
25in100
0in25
25in100
50in100
50in100
25in100

25in100

20in100
50in100
1in25

nolimit
nolimit
nolimit
nolimit
nolimit
nolimit
nolimit
nolimit

nolimit

7.19.4.4Closedvalleyflashing
Closedvalleyflashingshallconsistofsheetmetalnotlessthan600mmwide.Nailsshallnotpenetrate
theflashingwithin75mofthetopofthevalleyor125mmofthebottomofthevalleymeasuredfrom
thecenterlineofthevalley.

7.19.4.5Intersectionflashing
The intersection of shingle roofs and masonry walls or chimneys shall be protected with flashing.
Counterflashingembeddednotlessthan25mminthemasonryshallextendnotlessthan150mmdown
themasonryandlapthelowerflashingnotlessthan100mm.Flashingalongtheslopesofaroofshall
besteppedsothatthereisnotlessthan75mmheadlapinboththelowerflashingandcounterflashing.
Wheretheroofslopesupwardsfromthemasonry,theflashingshallextenduptheroofslopetoapoint
equalinheighttotheflashingonthemasonry,butnotlessthan1timestheshingleexposure.

7.19.5 Woodroofshingles

7.19.5.1Decking
Deckingforwoodshingledroofsmaybecontinuousorspaced.

7.19.5.2Size
Woodshinglesshallbenotlessthan400mmlongandlessthan75mmnormorethan
350mmwide.
57

7.19.5.3Spacing
Shinglesshallbespacedapproximately6mmapartandoffsetatthejointsinadjacentcoursesnotless
than40mmsothatjointsinalternatecoursesarestaggered.

7.19.5.4Fastening
Shinglesshallbefastened withatleast two(2)nails orstapleslocatedapproximately20mmfromthe
sidesoftheshinglesand40mmabovetheexposureline.

7.19.5.5Exposure
TheexposureofwoodroofshinglesshallconformtoTable7.19.5A

Table7.19.5A
(FormingpartofArticles7.19.5.5)
Exposureofwoodroofshingles
RoofSlope

MaximumShingleExposure,mm
410mmShingles
460mmShingles

95
110
125
140

610mmShingles

25in75orless
145
over25in75
190

7.19.5.6Flashing
FlashingshallconformtoSubsection7.19.4

7.19.6 Handsplitroofshakes

7.19.6.1Sizeofshakes
Shakesshallbenotlessthan450mmlongandlessthan100mmnotmorethan350mmwidewithabutt
thicknessofnotmorethan30mm.

7.19.6.2Spacingofshakes
Shakes shall be spaced approximately 6mm apart and offset at the joints in adjacent courses not less
than40mmsothatjointsinalternatecoursesarestaggered.

7.19.6.3Fasteningofshakes
Shakesshallbefastenedwithnailslocatedapproximately20mmfromthesideoftheshakesand40mm
abovetheexposureline.

7.19.6.4Exposureofshakes
TheexposureofwoodshakesshallconformtoTable7.19.6A

58

Table7.19.6A
(FormingpartofArticle7.19.6.4)
Exposureofhandsplitwoodshakes

Minimumlengthofshakes
(mm)

Limitingminimumbutt
thickness,(mm)

Maximumexposure,(mm)

450

10

190

300

10

250

800

10

330

7.19.6.5Flashing
FlashingshallconformtoSubsection7.19.4

7.20 INTERIORWALLANDCEILINGFINISHES

7.20.1General

7.20.1.1Therequirementsforwallandceilingfinishesinthissectionarebasicrequirements.Wherea
wallorceilingassemblyisrequiredtoprovideacertainfireresistance,aflamespreadratingorasound
transmissionclassrating,thewallorceilingfinishingshallbesubjecttotheappropriaterequirementsin
Section3.1inadditiontorequirementsinthisSection.

7.20.2 Waterproofwallfinish

7.20.2.1Waterproofingofinteriorfinishes
Waterprooffinishshallbeprovidedtoaheightofnotlessthan1.8mabovethefloorinshowerstalls,
1.2m above the rims of bathtubs equipped with showers and 400mm above the rims of bathtubs not
equippedwithshowers.

7.20.2.2Waterprooffinish
Waterprooffinishshallconsistofgranite,marble,ceramic,plasticormetaltile,sheetvinylorlinoleum
etc.

7.20.3 Plywoodfinish

7.20.3.1Plywoodfinishthickness
The minimum thickness of plywood interior finish shall conform to Table 7.20.3A except that no
minimumthicknessisrequiredwhentheplywoodisappliedoversolidbacking.

59

Table7.20.3A
(FormingpartofArticle7.20.3.1)
Minimumthicknessofplywoodinteriorfinish
Minimumspacingofsupports,
mm,centres

Onsupportswithnohorizontal
blocking,mm

On supports with blocking at

vertical intervals not exceeding
1.2m,mm

400

4.7

4.0

600

9.5

4.7

7.20.3.2Whereplywoodforinteriorfinishisgrooved,thegroovesshallnotextendthroughthefaceply
andintothepliesbelowthefaceplyunlessthegrooveissupportedbyframingorfurring,orifthegrain
ofthefaceplyisatrightanglestosupportingmembers,unlessthethicknessoftheplywoodexceedsthe
valueshowninTable7.20.3Abyanamountequaltoatleastthedepthofpenetrationofthegrooves
intothepliesbelowthefaceply.

7.20.3.3Nailsforplywoodfinish
Nails for attaching plywood finishes shall be not less than 38mm casing or finishing nails spaced not
more than 150mm centres along edge supports and 300mm centres along intermediate supports,
exceptthatstaplesprovidingequivalentlateralresistancemayalsobeused.

7.20.3.4Allplywoodedgesshallbesupportedbyfurring,blockingorframing.

7.20.4 Walltile

7.20.4.1Walltilebaseandadhesive
Ceramictileshallbesetinamortarbaseorappliedwithadhesive.Plastictileshallbeappliedwithan
adhesive.

7.20.4.2Mortarforceramictile
When ceramic tile is applied to a mortar base the cementitious material shall consist of one part
Portlandcementtonotmorethanpartoflimeorclaypozzolanabyvolume.Thisshallbemixedwith
not less than three nor more than five parts of sand per part of cementitious material by volume.
Ceramic tile applied to a mortar base shall be thoroughly soaked and pressed into place forcing the
mortarintothejointswhilethetileiswet.

7.20.4.3Adhesiveforceramictile
Adhesivestoattachceramicorplastictileshallbeappliedtothefinishcoatorbrowncoatofplasterthat
hasbeensteeltrowelledtoanevensurfaceortomasonryprovidedthemasonryhasanevensurface.

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7.21 FLOORING

7.21.1 General

7.21.1.1Finishedflooringshallbeprovidedinallresidentialoccupancies.

7.21.1.2Finishedflooringmaterials
Finishedflooringinbathrooms,kitchens,publicentrancehalls,laundryandgeneralstorageareasshall
consist of resilient flooring, concrete, terrazzo, ceramic or other types of flooring providing similar
degreesofwaterresistance.

7.21.1.3Woodsleeper
Woodsleeperssupportingfinishedflooringoveraconcretebaseongroundshallbenotlessthan25mm
by50mmandshallbetreatedwithasoakingcoatofapprovedwoodpreservative.

7.21.1.4 Finishedflooringshallhaveasurface thatissmooth,evenandfreefromroughnessoropen

defects.

7.21.2 Woodstripflooring

7.21.2.1Dimensions
ThethicknessofwoodstripflooringshallconformtoTable7.21.2A

Table7.21.2.1
(FormingpartofArticles7.21.2.1)
Woodstripflooring

TypeofFlooring

Hardwood
Interior/ExteriorUse

Maximum
Spacing,mm

Joist Minimum Actual Thickness of Flooring,

mm
WithSubfloor
NoSubfloor

400

20

20

600

20

32

7.21.2.2Underlay
Wood strip flooring shall not be laid parallel to lumber subflooring unless a separate underlay is
provided.

7.21.2.3Layingofwoodstripflooring
Ifwoodstripflooringisappliedwithoutasubfloor,itshallbelaidatrightanglestothejoistssothatend
joistsarestaggeredandoccuroversupportsorareendmatched.Itshallbelaidsothatnotwoadjoining
strips break joints in the same space between supports and each strip bears on no fewer than two
supports.

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7.21.2.4Nailing
Woodstripflooringshallbetoenailedorfacenailedwithatleast1nailperstripatspacingsshownin
Table7.21.2Bexceptthatfacenailedstripsofmorethan25mminwidthshallhavenofewerthantwo
nailsperstrip.Facenailsshallbecountersunkandtheholesfilledwithsuitablefiller.

Table7.21.2B
(FormingpartofArticle7.21.2.4)
NailingOfWoodStripFlooring

Finishfloorthickness
mm

20
25
32
38

Minimumlengthoffloornails,
mm

57
63
70
83

Maximumspacingoffloornails,
mm

400
400
600
600

7.21.3 Parquetflooring

7.21.3.1 Adhesive used to attach parquet block flooring shall be suitable for bonding wood to the
applicablesubfloormaterial.

7.21.4 Ceramictile

7.21.4.1 Ceramic tile shall be set in a mortar bed or applied to a sound smooth base with a suitable
adhesive.

7.22 PLUMBINGFACILITIES

7.22.1 Scope

7.22.1.1 This section applies to the facilities required in plumbing systems within dwelling units.
Plumbing and plumbing systems will generally conform to Part 9.6 (Water Supply, Drainage and
Sanitation)ofthisCode.

7.22.1.2FacilitiesinplumbingsystemsotherthanthoserequiredindwellingunitsshallconformtoPart
3ofthisCode.

7.22.2 Watersupplyanddistribution

7.22.2.1Portablewater
Everydwellingunitshallbesuppliedwithportablewaterfromanapprovedpublicorcommunitysystem
whenthesesystemsareavailable.

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7.22.2.2Pipingfacilities
Whereapipedwatersupplyisavailable,pipingforcoldwatershallbeconnectedtoeverykitchensink,
bathtub,showerandlaundryarea.Pipingforcoldwatershallberuntoeverywaterclosetandhosebib.

7.22.3 Requiredfacilities

7.22.3.1 A kitchen sink, lavatory bathtub and water closet shall be provided for every dwelling unit
whereapipedwatersupplyisavailable.Wherethereisnotpipedwatersupplyotherapprovedmeans
ofwastedisposalshallbeprovidedforeverydwellingunit.

7.22.4 Sewagedisposal

7.22.4.1ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.22.3.1wastesfromeveryplumbingfixtureshallbepipedtothe
buildingsewer.

7.22.4.2Buildingsewersshalldischargeintoapublicsewagesystemwheresuchsystemisavailable.

7.22.4.3Whereapublicsewagesystemisnotavailable,thebuildingsewershalldischargeintoaprivate
sewagedisposalsystemsuchasaseptictankanddisposalfieldprovidedthedesignandinstallationis
approved.

7.23 VENTILATION

7.23.1 Scope

7.23.1.1Thissectionappliestotheventilationofroomsandspacesinresidentialoccupanciesbutdoes
notapplytotheventilationsofroomsintendedtobeusedforthelawfuldetentionofanypersonother
thanamentallydisorderedperson.

7.23.1.2Ventilationofroomsandspacesotherthanresidentialoccupanciesshallbeinaccordancewith
approvedengineeringpractice.

7.23.1.3AgarageforparkingmorethanfivecarsshallbeventilatedinaccordancewithPart3andPart
9.1ofthisCode.

7.23.2 Naturalventilation

7.23.2.1 Except as provided in Article 7.23.2.3 any habitable room shall (unless it is adequately
ventilatedbymechanicalmeans)haveoneormoreventilationopeningssoconstructedthat:

i.
theirtotalareaisequaltonotlessthan1/20ofthefloorareaoftheroom;and
ii.

somepartofsuchareaisnotlessthan1.75mabovethefloor.

7.23.2.2Adoorwhichopensdirectlytotheexternalairshallbedeemedtobeaventilationopeningif:

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i.

ii.

such door contains a ventilator with an area of not less than 10,000mm2 capable of being
opened(withoutthedoorbeingopened);or

the room contains one or more ventilation openings having a total area of not less than
10,000mm2;inadditiontosuchdoor.

7.23.2.3 A habitable room opening into an enclosed verandah, conservatory or similar place shall be
deemedtocomplywiththeprovisionsofthisregulationifsuchroomandsuchenclosedplacetogether
haveoneormoreventilationopeningswhich,iftheyventilatedaroomhavingafloorareaequaltothe
combined floor areas of such habitable room and such enclosed space would comply with the
requirementsofArticle7.23.2.1.

7.23.3 Ventilationopeningsontocourts

7.23.3.1Noventilationopeningconstructedincompliancewithsubsection7.23.2shallbesosituatedas
toopenontoacourtenclosedoneveryside,unlessthedistancefromtheventilationopeningtothe
oppositewallofthecourtiseither:

i.
15mormore;or

ii.
notlessthantheverticaldistancebetweenthetopofthewallcontainingtheopening.

7.23.3.2NoventilationopeningconstructedincompliancewithrequirementsofSubsection7.23.2shall
besosituatedastoopenontoacourtwhichhasoneunobstructedside,exceedstwicethewidth,unless
suchventilationopening:

i.
isinthesideofthecourtoppositetheunobstructedside;or

ii.
(ifitissituatedineitherofthelongsides)iswithinadistancefromtheunobstructedsidenot
exceedingtwicethewidthofthecourt;or

iii.
(if it is situated in either of the long sides) is in such a position that the distance from such
opening to the opposite wall of the court is either 15m or more; or not less than the vertical
distancebetweenthetopofsuchopeningandthetopofthewallcontainingtheopening.

7.23.4 Ventilationoflarders

7.23.4.1Anylarderforthestorageofperishablefood(otherthananenclosedspacehavingmeansof
refrigeration)shall,unlessadequatelyventilatedbymechanicalmeansbeventilatedtotheexternalair
bymeansofoneormorewindowsortwoormoreventilationscapableofbeingclosedofwhichoneisin
theupperpartandanotherinthelowerpartofthelarder.

7.23.4.2Windowsusedfortheventilationoflardersshallbefittedwithdurableflyproofscreenandbe
soconstructedthatatotalareaofnotlessthan85,000mm2iscapableofbeingopened.

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7.23.4.3Ventilatorsusedfortheventilationoflardersshallbe:

i.
fittedwithadurableflyproofscreen;and

ii.
so constructed as to permit (when open) the passage of air through an opening having an
unobstructedareaofnotlessthan45,000mm2;and

iii.

eithersituatedinanexternalwallofthebuildingorseparatelyconnectedwiththeexternalair
byaductnotlessthan16,000mm2incrosssectionalareaandhavingasmoothinternalsurface.

7.23.5 Ventilationofcommonstairways

7.23.5.1Anypartofastairwaywhichisintendedforcommonusewithinanybuildingconstructedfor
occupationasseparatedwellingsbymorethanonefamilyandabovethegroundstoreyandnotopento
theexternalairshallhaveadequatemeansofventilation.

7.24 ELECTRICALFACILITIES

7.24.1 General

7.24.1.1 Electrical installations, including the service capacity of the installation and the number and
distribution of circuits shall meet the requirements of the appropriate local government statutes.
GuidanceforelectricalinstallationsaregiveninPart9.2ofthisCode.

7.24.1.2Unlessotherwiseapproved,electricalfacilitiesshallbeprovidedforeverybuildingandevery
dwellingunitandpublicsharedspaceinbuildingcontainingdwellingunits.

7.24.1.3 Electrical facilities shall have sufficient capacity to provide, without overloading, electrical
energyforlightingappliances,outletsandequipmentinstalledinthebuilding.

7.24.1.4Entranceswitches,meters,panelboxes,timeclocksandothersimilarequipmentshallnotbe
located in any public area unless adequate precautions are taken to prevent interference with the
equipment.

7.24.2 Lightingoutlets

7.24.2.1Exteriorlighting
An exterior lighting outlet with fixture controlled by a wall switch located within the building shall be
providedateveryentrancetobuildingsofresidentialoccupancy.

7.24.2.2Requirementsforlightingoutlets
ExceptasprovidedinArticle7.24.2.3 alightingoutletwithfixturecontrolledbyawallswitchshallbe
provided in kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, utility rooms, dining rooms, bathrooms, water closet
rooms,vestibulesandhallwaysindwellingunits.

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7.24.2.3Whereareceptaclecontrolledbyawallswitchisprovidedinbedroomsorlivingrooms,such
roomneednotconformtotherequirementsinArticle7.24.2.

7.24.2.4Lightsinstairways
Every stairway shall be lighted. Wall switches located at head and foot of every stairway shall be
provided to control at least one lighting outlet with fixture for stairways with four or more risers in
dwellingunits.

7.24.2.5Storageroom
Alightingoutletwithfixtureshallbeprovidedinstoragerooms.

7.24.2.6Lightingofgaragesandcarports
Alightingoutletwithfixtureshallbeprovidedforanattached,builtinordetachedgarageorcarport.
Suchoutletshallbecontrolledbyawallswitchnearthedoorwaywherethefixtureisceilingmounted
aboveanareanormallyoccupiedbyaparkedcar.Whereacarportislightedbyalightattheentrance
toadwellingunit,additionalcarportlightingisnotrequired.

7.24.2.7Lightinginpublicareas
Everypublicorserviceareainbuildingsshallbeprovidedwithlightingoutletswithfixturescontrolledby
awallswitchorpaneltoilluminateeveryportionofsuchareas.

66