Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
TABLE 14.1
Overview of Geotechnical Engineering Aspects of the
International Building Code
Topic
Discussion
Purpose of
building
code
Building codes are developed to safeguard the public health, safety, and gen-
eral welfare. In this regard, building codes typically present minimum building
requirements. For example, the preface of the
International Building Code
(2012)
states: “The comprehensive building code establishes minimum regulations
for building systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions.”
Although building codes provide minimum building regulations, it should be
recognized that the design engineer, for a variety of reasons, might provide more
stringent design recommendations.
Inspections
Section 110.3.1 of the
International Building Code
(2012) presents footing and
foundation inspections to be performed by the building official. Sections 1705.6
to 1705.9 present a discussion of special inspections related to site soil condi-
tions, driven deep foundations, cast-in-place deep foundations, and helical pile
foundations. The project geotechnical engineer, engineering geologist, and field
technician often perform these inspections. They need to be hired by the owner
and be an approved agency. The inspection regulations, as related to geotechnical
engineering, are summarized in Table 14.3 of this topic.
Structural
design
Although Chapter 16 of the
International Building Code
(2012) is predominately
concerned with structural engineering, there are some geotechnical issues. For
example, the geotechnical engineer may need to determine the site class based on
the results of the soils investigation. This chapter also provides soil lateral loads
for foundation walls and retaining walls.
Soils and
foundations
Safeguards
Chapter 18 of the
International Building Code
(2012) is the most important part
of the code in terms of geotechnical earthquake engineering.
Chapter 33 of the
International Building Code
(2012) includes Sec. 3304 (Site
Work) and discusses excavation and fill, slope limits, and surcharge loads.
Sec. 3304 from the
International Building Code
is reproduced in Table 14.2 of
this topic.
Grading
Appendix J of the
International Building Code
(2012) deals with site grading.
However, provisions contained in a code appendix are not mandatory unless
specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance. The local building department
maintains a list of referenced codes and provisions.
Tsunami
Appendix M presents regulations dealing with tsunami-generated flood hazard.
Section M101.4 states that certain structures, such as buildings that represent a
substantial hazard to human life in the event of failure and essential facilities,
shall be prohibited within a Tsunami Hazard Zone.
