Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 4
Frequently Used Codes and Standards
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defi nition of “Code” is a systematic statement of a
body of law, specially one given statutory force, and “Standard” is something estab-
lished by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or an example. In general,
engineering codes (absolutely to be followed) and standards (to be followed as a
good engineering practice) are developed to hold the design and construction indus-
try players responsible to a minimum acceptable level of designing, constructing,
manufacturing, commissioning, controlling, testing, etc. There are a large number
of regulatory codes, guidelines, and standards which direct the design and construc-
tion community members to the correct way of performing their duties. These regu-
lations cover all the aspects of the design and construction and its prime target is to
protect the occupants, buildings and of course the environment. In general for
the design and construction environment from the point of view of an HVAC engi-
neer or contractor the mechanical, building and energy codes, ASHRAE standards
and testing agencies regulations are the most important reference documents to
be followed.
Codes are usually being updated every few years and cover the general and over-
all building design and construction requirements, and its electrical, mechanical,
energy, etc. issues. Different ASHRAE standards that are also being updated every
few years cover almost all aspects of the building HVAC design and construction
and also some other energy related issues. Even though these codes and standards
and also other important similar documents usually discuss every aspects of the
building, its systems, its environment and its occupants, here similar to the fl ow of
the rest of this topic, I only emphasize on HVAC and energy related contexts of
these guidelines.
Generally the mechanical codes have been written to provide guidelines for the
design and installation of mechanical appliances and systems, such as venting,
exhausting, ductwork, piping, and also refrigerant systems. Proper installation loca-
tion and required access for the appliances and mechanical systems are also
discussed in mechanical codes. The mechanical codes describe how the venting,
exhausting, and ductwork systems should be designed and installed to control
