If you work in the construction industry, you know that your company must adhere to very clear rules, laws and guidelines. Construction building codes may evolve and require companies to continually monitor the latest guidance to ensure they comply with all regulations.
Your specific role may dictate the level of detail you know about construction codes but regardless of your job, you can benefit from understanding the nature of these codes.
Construction codes by building type or location
As explained by the State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, the Uniform Construction Code outlines some specific requirements in part based on the type of building involved. For example, health care facilities must follow a different set of code guidelines than do buildings on farms.
Construction codes by building system
Another set of codes contractors must follow pertain to different systems in a building. For example, the code outlines guidelines for electrical and plumbing systems. Contractors working in these areas should follow the codes closely.
Construction codes by building feature
Unique features in buildings, such as elevators, may also align to unique elements in the construction code.
Construction codes for specific substances
Some parts of the construction code outlines guidance designed to protect construction workers and the public from hazardous substances like radon or asbestos. These guidelines may pertain to the handling, abatement, transportation and disposal of substances.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but is instead meant to give people working in construction jobs an overview of the many types of construction codes they must abide by to ensure full compliance and safety.
