Developing building codes

Implementing construction standards
Harmonizing building regulations
Standardizing construction practices
Providing building specifications
Raising standards of construction work

Description

Developing building codes involves establishing and regularly updating enforceable standards for construction, materials, and design to ensure the safety, health, and resilience of buildings. This strategy addresses risks such as structural failure, fire, and natural disasters by mandating minimum requirements and inspection protocols. Effective building codes remedy unsafe construction practices, reduce hazards, and promote sustainable development, thereby protecting occupants and communities while facilitating compliance and accountability within the construction industry.

Context

Building acts, regulations and codes are the means by which authorities control construction activities to ensure safety and health in the built environment. Similarly, standards and specifications for building materials production and use ensure the stipulated quality. To a large extent, the regulatory procedures can determine the types of building materials, skills and construction techniques to be used in a given construction process.

Implementation

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities. Agenda 21 recommends adoption of standards and other regulatory measures which promote the increased use of energy-efficient designs and technologies and sustainable utilization of natural resources in an economically and environmentally appropriate way.