National building code

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
OF INDIA 2016
VOLUME 1
BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS
Team Members
AMAN
HARSHIT
JATINDER
KARTIKY
KAVYA
MAYANK
MAZID
MRINALINI

CON-
TENT
PAGE
1 INTEGRATED APPROACH PREREQUISITE FOR APPLYING
PROVISIONS OF THE CODE
2DEFINITIONS
3
4
5
6
7
8
ADMINISTRATION
DEVELOPMENT CONTROL REGULATIONS & GENERAL
BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY
BUILDING MATERIALS
LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT , SIGNS & OUTDOOR
DISPLAY STRUCTURES
APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY

INTEGRATED APPROACH PREREQUISITE FOR
APPLYING PROVISIONS OF THE CODE
By
M A Y A N K

SCOPE :
This Code (Part 0) covers guidelines to be followed for judicious implementation of the provisions of various
Parts/Sections of the National Building Code of India following an integrated approach.
TERMINOLOGY :
For the purpose of this Part, the following definitions shall apply.
Authority Having
Jurisdiction
The authority which has been
created by a statute and which,
for the purpose of administering
the Code/Part, may authorize a
committee or an official or an
agency to act on its behalf;
hereinafter called the
.Authority..
Buildin
g
Any structure for whatsoever purpose
and of whatsoever materials constructed and
every part thereof whether used as human
habitation or not and includes foundation,
plinth, walls, floors, roofs, chimneys, plumbing
and building services, fixed platforms,
verandah, balcony, cornice or projection, part of
a building or anything affixed thereto or any wall
enclosing or intended to enclose any land or
space and signs and outdoor display
structures. Tents/ Shamianahs/Pandals,
tarpaulin shelters, etc, erected for temporary
and ceremonial occasions shall not be
considered as building.
Owner
A person, a group of persons or a body
having a legal interest in land and/or
building thereon. This includes
freeholders, leaseholders or those
holding a sublease, who will have legal
right to occupation and
have liabilities in respect of safety or
building condition. In the case of lease or
sublease holders, as far as ownership
with respect to the structure is concerned,
the structure of a flat or structure on a plot
belongs to the allottee/lessee till the
allotment/lease subsists.

GENERA
L :
Buildings shall be classified as Residential, Educational, Institutional, Assembly, Business, Mercantile, Industrial, Storage and
Hazardous in groups and sub-divisions as classified in Part 4 .Fire and Life Safety. of the Code. For various related provisions of
buildings with respect to administration; development control rules and general building requirements; building materials; fire
and life safety; structural design; construction management, practices and safety; building and plumbing services;
landscape development, signs and outdoor display structures; sustainability; asset and facility management, and other
Parts/Sections of the Code may be referred to. For provisions on sustainability of buildings and built environment, reference to
the concerned Part may be made, which while also referring to the other Parts/Sections as may be required, gives a
comprehensive approach to sustainability.
TEAM
APPROACH :
A land development/building project and the built facility during its service life comprises the following major stages:
a) Location/siting,
b) Conceptualization and planning,
c) Designing and detailing,
d) Construction/execution,
e) Operation and maintenance, and
f) Decommissioning and deconstruction.
Each stage necessarily requires professionals of many disciplines who should work together as a well coordinated team to
achieve the desired product delivery with quality and safety and other objectives, in an effective manner.

Appropriate multi-disciplinary teams :
1) Architect;
2) Civil engineer;
3) Structural engineer;
4) Geotechnical engineer;
5) Electrical engineer;
6) Plumbing engineer;
7) Fire protection engineer;
8) Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
engineer;
9) Lift, escalator and moving walk specialist;
10) Acoustics specialist;
11) Information/communication technology
engineer;
12) Health, safety and environment specialist;
13) Environment/sustainability specialist;
14) Town planner;
15) Urban designer;
16) Landscape architect;
17) Security system specialist;
18) Interior designer;
19) Quantity surveyor;
20) Project/construction manager;
21) Accessibility and universal design specialist;
22) Asset/facility manager; and
23) Other subject specialist(s).
It is important that leaders and members of design team,
project management/construction management team, and
operation and maintenance team, depending on the size
and complexity of the project, are carefully selected
considering their qualification, experience and expertise in
these fields.
Design
Team
Project Management and Construction
Management Teams
Operation and Maintenance Team
Operation, maintenance and repairs also require a multi-
disciplinary approach to ensure that all the requirements
of the users are satisfactorily met
The objective of project management or construction
management is primarily to achieve accomplishment of a
project in accordance with the designs and specifications in a
stipulated time and cost framework, etc, with a degree of
assurance prior to commencement and satisfaction on
completion and commissioning.
The project requiring such multi-disciplinary inputs need a
coordinated approach among the professionals for proper
integration of various design inputs. For this, and to take care of
the complexities of multi-disciplinary requirements, a design
team of professionals from the required disciplines shall be
constituted at the appropriate stage.

PLANNING, DESIGNING AND
DEVELOPMENT :
a) Formalization of design brief in consultation
with the owner.
b) Site survey and soil investigation.
c) Preparation of alternative concept designs,
highlighting both their positive and negative
aspects.
d) Selection of a concept in consultation with and
with the consent of the owner.
e) Sizing the system.
f) Development of design, involving:
1) Integration of architecture, structure and
services,
2) Synthesis of requirements of each
discipline, and
3) Interaction with each other within the
design team and with the owner.
g) Preparation of preliminary designs and
drawings and obtaining the owners. approval.
h) Preparation of preliminary cost estimates for
approval of owner.
j) Preparation of work-breakdown structure and
programme for pre-construction activities.
k) Assisting client to obtain approvals of the
Authority/authorities.
m) Preparation of detailed specifications and
construction working drawings with
integration of engineering inputs of all
concerned disciplines.
n) Preparation of detailed design of each
discipline for various services.
p) Peer review/proof checking of the drawings/
designs in case of major/important projects,
depending upon their complexity and
sensitivity.
q) Preparation of detailed cost estimate.
r) Obtaining final approval of the client.
s) Preparation of bill of quantities, specifications
and tender documents.
The main functions of design team constituted for the
planning, designing and development, are as above.

CONSTRUCTION/EXECUTION (ACTUALIZATION) :
The main functions of the teams constituted for Project
Management/Construction Management may be to,
a) specify criteria for selection of constructors;
b) specify quality control, quality audit system
and safety system;
c) short-list constructors;
d) have pre-bid meetings with the intending
constructors;
e) receive and evaluate tenders;
f) select constructors;
g) execution and supervision;
h) monitor for quality, time and cost control and
for other project management functions;
j) prepare/certify the completion (as-built)
drawings;
k) assist in getting statutory approvals at various
stages; and
m) ensure availability of operation manuals for
field use.
OPERATION, MAINTENANCE,
DECOMMISSIONING AND DECONSTRUCTION
a) Periodic validation of buildings by competent professionals
through inspection of the buildings in respect of structural
safety and safety of electrical and other installations and
ensuring that all fire safety equipment/systems are in proper
working condition.
b) Periodic accessibility audits to ensure that the buildings
remain universally accessible and barrier free for persons with
disabilities.
c) Preparation of predictive/preventive maintenance schedules
for all installations in the building and strictly following the
same; the record of the preventive maintenance to be properly
kept.
d) Ensuring inter-disciplinary coordination during operation
and maintenance, and repairs; deployment of trained
personnel with multi-disciplinary skills to be encouraged.
e) Condition survey of structures and installations, identification
of distress of various elements and initiating plans for
rehabilitation/ retrofitting well in time. Post-disaster
investigations by competent engineer/specialist.
The team of professionals shall set up a system of periodic
maintenance and upkeep of constructed buildings.

ANNEX
A
BRIEF DETAILS OF THE COVERAGE OF VARIOUS PROVISIONS UNDER DIFFERENT
PARTS/SECTIONS OF THE CODE
PART 1
DEFINITIONS
It lists the terms appearing in all the
Parts/Sections of
the National Building Code of India. However,
some
common definitions are reproduced in this Part
also.
A-2 PART 2
ADMINISTRATION
It covers the administrative aspects of the Code,
such
as applicability of the Code, organization of building
department for enforcement of the Code, procedure
for
obtaining development and building permits, and
responsibility of the owner and all professionals
involved in the planning, design and construction of
the building.
A-3 PART 3 DEVELOPMENT CONTROL RULES AND
GENERAL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
It covers the development control rules and general building
requirements for proper planning and design at the layout and
building level to ensure health safety, public safety and desired
quality of life. It also covers requirements for accessibility in
buildings and built environment for elders and persons with
disabilities.
A-4 PART 4 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY
It covers the requirements for fire prevention, life safety in relation
to fire, and fire protection of buildings. It also specifies
occupancy-wise classification, constructional aspects, egress
requirements and protection features that are necessary to
minimize danger to life and property from fire.

A-5 PART 5 BUILDING MATERIALS
It covers the requirements of building materials
and
components, and criteria for accepting new
or
alternative building materials and components.
A-6 PART 6 STRUCTURAL DESIGN
A-7 PART 7 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, PRACTICES AND
SAFETY
A-8 PART 8 BUILDING SERVICES
PART 9 PLUMBING SERVICES (INCLUDING SOLID WASTE
MANAGEMENT)
A-10 PART 10 LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT, SIGNS AND
OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES
A-10.1 Section 1 Landscape Planning, Design and Development
It covers requirements of landscape planning, design and development with the
view to promoting quality of outdoor built and natural environments and the
protection of land and its resources.
A-10.2 Section 2 Signs and Outdoor Display Structures
It covers the requirements with regard to public safety, structural safety and
fire safety of all signs and outdoor display structures.
A-11 PART 11 APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY
It covers the parameters required to be considered for
planning, design, construction, operation and
maintenance of buildings and those relating to land
development, from sustainability point of view. It is a
supplement to all other Parts/Sections of the Code
and shall be read along with them.
A-12 PART 12 ASSET AND FACILITY MANAGEMENT

D E F I N I T I O N S
by
K A R T I K

I D E F I N I T I O N S I
A change from one type of occupancy to another, or a structural change, such as an addition to the area or height, or the removal of part of a building, or any
change to the structure, such as the construction of, cutting into or removal of any wall, partition, column, beam, joist, floor or other support, or a change to or
closing of any required means of ingress or egress or a change to the fixtures or equipment.
I E X A M P L E S I
1. Building Height - The vertical distance measured, in the case of flat roofs from the average level of the ground around and contiguous to the
building or as decided by the Authority to the terrace of last livable floor of the building adjacent to the external walls; and in the case of pitched
roofs, up to the point where the external surface of the outer wall intersects the finished surface of the sloping roof, and in the case of gables
facing the road, the midpoint between the eaves level and the ridge. Architectural features serving no other function except that of decoration
shall be excluded for the purpose of measuring heights.
2. Building Line - The line up to which the plinth of a building adjoining a street or an extension of a street or on a future street may lawfully
extend. It includes the lines prescribed, if any, in any scheme. The building line may change from time to time as decided by the Authority
3. Combustible Material - A material that, in the form in which it is used and under the conditions anticipated, will ignite and burn; a material
that does not meet the definition of noncombustible or limited combustible

I E X A M P L E S I
4. Covered Areas - Ground area covered by the building immediately above the plinth level. The area covered by the following in the open
spaces is excluded from covered area.
1. Garden, rockery, well and well structures, plant nursery, water pool, swimming pool (if uncovered), platform round a tree, tank, fountain,
bench, Chabutara with open top and unenclosed on sides by walls.
2. Drainage culvert, conduit, catchpit, gully pit, chamber, gutter.
3. Compound wall, gate, unstoreyed porch and portico, slide, swing, uncovered staircases, ramp areas covered by Chhajja.
4. Watchmans booth, pumphouse, garbage shaft, electric cabin or sub-stations, and such other utility structures meant for the services of the
building under consideration.
5. Development - Development with grammatical variations means the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, or
over, or under land or water, or in the use of any building or land, and includes redevelopment and layout and subdivision of any land; and `to
develop shall be construed accordingly.
6. Drains - A conduit, channel or pipe for the carriage of storm water, sewage, waste water or other water-borne wastes in a building
drainage system.
7. Fire Separation - The distance, in metre, measured from the external wall of the building concerned to the external wall of any other
building on the site, or from other site, or from the opposite side of a street or other public space for the purpose of preventing the spread of
fire.

I E X A M P L E S I
8. Fittings - The appurtenances such as coupling, flange, branch, bend, tees, elbows, unions, waste (with or without plug), P or S trap (with
or without vent), stop ferrule, bib tap, pillar tap, bath faucet, water meter, garden hydrant, valves and any other article used in connection
with water supply, drainage and sanitation.
9. Floor - The lower surface in a story on which one normally walks in a building. The general term floor unless specifically mentioned
otherwise shall not refer to a mezzanine floor.
10. Room Height - The vertical distance measured from the finished floor surface to the finished ceiling surface. Where a finished ceiling is
not provided, the underside of the joists or beams or tie beams shall determine the upper point of measurement for determining the head
room.
11. Set Back Lines - A line usually parallel to the plot boundaries and laid down in each case by the Authority, beyond which nothing can be
constructed towards the site boundaries.
12. Story - The portion of a building included between the surface of any floor and the surface of the floor next above it, or if there be no
floor above it, then the space between any floor and the ceiling next above it
13. Plinth Area - The built up covered area measured at the floor level of the basement or of any story.
14. Plinth - The portion of a structure between the surface of the surrounding ground and surface of the floor, immediately above the
ground.

A D M I N I S T R A T I O N
by
M A Z I D

ADMINISTRATION
Scope:-It covers the administrative aspects of the Code, such as applicability of the Code, organization of building department
for enforcement of the Code, procedure for obtaining development and building permits, and responsibility of the owner.
Alteration- A change from one type of occupancy to another, or a structural change, such as an addition to the area or height, or
the removal of part of a building, or any change to the structure, such as the construction of, cutting into or removal of any wall,
partition, column, beam, joist, floor or other support, or a change to or closing of any required means of ingress or egress or a
change to the fixtures or equipment.
Authority Having Jurisdiction -The authority which has been created by a statute and which, for the purpose of administering
the Code/Part, may authorize a committee or an official or an agency to act on its behalf; hereinafter called the ‘authority’.
Building -Any structure for whatsoever purpose and of whatsoever materials constructed and every part thereof whether used as
human habitation or not and includes foundation, plinth, walls, floors, roofs, chimneys, plumbing and building services, fixed
platforms, verandah, balcony, cornice or projection, part of a building or anything affixed thereto or any wall enclosing or intended
to enclose any land or space and signs and outdoor display structures. Tents/ Shamianahs, tarpaulin shelters, etc, erected for
temporary and ceremonial occasions with the permission of the Authority shall not be considered as building.

Conversion -The change of occupancy or premises to any occupancy or use requiring additional occupancy permit.
Development -‘
Development with grammatical variations means the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other
operations in, or over, or under land or water, or in the use of any building or land, and includes redevelopment and layout and
subdivision of any land; and top develop shall be construed accordingly.
Drain-A conduit or channel for the carriage of storm water, sewage, waste water or other water-borne wastes in a building
drainage system.
Drainage the removal of any liquid by a system constructed for the purpose
Occupancy or Use Group -The principal occupancy for which a building or a part of a building is used or intended to be used; for the
purposes of classification of a building according to occupancy, an occupancy shall be deemed to include the subsidiary occupancies
which are contingent upon it.
Occupier- It includes any person for the time being, paying or liable to pay rent or any portion of rent of the building in respect of
which the ward is used, or compensation or premium on account of the occupation of such building and also a rent-free tenant, but does
not include a lodger, and the words ‘
occupy’and ‘
occupation’do not refer to the lodger. An owner living in or otherwise using his own
building shall be deemed to be the occupier thereof.
Operational Construction/Installation- A construction/installation put up by Government Departments for operational purposes
Owner A person, a group of persons or a body having a legal interest in land and/or building thereon. This includes freeholders,
leaseholders or those holding a sublease, who will have a legal right to occupation and have liabilities in respect of safety or building
condition. In case of lease or sublease holders, as far as ownership with respect to the structure is concerned, the structure of a flat or
structure on a plot belongs to the allottee/ lessee till the allotment/lease subsists.

Permit A permission or authorization in writing by the Authority to carry out work regulated by the Code.
Registered Architect, Engineer, Structural Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Supervisor, Town Planner,
Landscape Architect, Urban Designer- A qualified architect, engineer, structural engineer, geotechnical
engineer, supervisor, town planner, landscape architect or urban designer who has been registered by the
Authority or by the body governing such profession and constituted under a statute, as may be applicable. The
registration requirements of these professionals shall be as given in Annex A.
Unsafe Building- Buildings which are structurally and constructionally unsafe or insanitary or not provided
with adequate means of egress or which constitute a fire hazard or are otherwise dangerous to human life or
which in relation to existing use constitute a hazard to safety or health or public welfare, by reason of
inadequate maintenance, dilapidation or abandonment.
APPLICABILITY OF THE CODE
 Where a building is erected, the Code applies to the design and construction of the building.
 Where the whole or any part of the building is removed, the Code applies to all parts of the building
whether removed or not.
 Where the whole or any part of the building is demolished the Code applies to any remaining part and to
the work involved in demolition.
 Where a building is altered the Code applies to the whole building whether existing or new except that the
Code applies only to part, if that part is completely self contained with respect to facilities and safety
measures required by the Code.
 Where the occupancy of a building is changed the Code applies to all parts of the building affected by the
change.
 Where development of land is undertaken the Code applies to the entire development of land.

 Existing Buildings/Development- Nothing in the Code shall require the removal, alteration or
abandonment, nor prevent continuance of the use or occupancy of an existing building/development, unless
in the opinion of the Authority, such building/ development constitutes a hazard to the safety of the adjacent
property or the occupants of the building itself.
INTERPRETATION - The heading which appears at the beginning of a clause or sub-clause of the Code
shall be deemed to be a part of such clause or sub-clause, respectively. The use of present tense includes the
future tense, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular number includes the plural
and the plural includes the singular. The word person includes a corporation as well as an individual; writing
includes printing and typing and signature includes thumb impression made by a person who cannot write if his
name is written near to such thumb impression.
ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS, METHODS OF DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION, AND
TESTS
The provisions of the Code are not intended to prevent the use of any material or method of design or
construction not specifically prescribed by the Code, provided any such alternative has been approved.
The Authority may approve any such alternative provided it is found that the proposed alternative is
satisfactory and conforms to the provisions of relevant parts regarding material, design and construction and
that material, method, or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least equivalent to that prescribed in the
Code in quality, strength, compatibility, effectiveness, fire and water resistance, durability and safety.
Tests -Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of the Code or evidence that
any material or method of design or construction does not conform to the requirements of the Code or in order
to substantiate claims for alternative materials, design or methods of construction not specifically prescribed in
the Code, the Authority may require tests sufficiently in advance as proof of compliance. These tests shall be
made by an approved agency at the expense of the owner

Appointment of Team of Building Officials
The team of building officials shall be appointed by the Authority. The team shall comprise officials drawn from
concerned disciplines such as engineer, architect, town planner, landscape architect and urban designer as may be
decided by the Authority. For scrutiny of layout plans of plots of one hectare and above in metro cities and two
hectares and above in other places, town planner shall be part of the team of building officials. For plots of five
hectares and above, landscape architect shall also be part of the team. An urban designer shall also be required to
be the part of team of building officials for examining proposals on integrated urban design and development for
residential/business/ institutional and assembly building.
Organization- In the department of buildings, such number of officers, technical assistants, inspectors and other
employees shall be appointed to assist the team of building officials as shall be necessary for the administration of
the Code and as authorized by the Authority.
Delegation of Powers The Authority may designate one of the building officials who shall exercise all the
powers of the team of building officials. The work of the team of building officials may be outsourced to
competent professional/ agency/group as may be deemed necessary.
Qualification of Building Officials- The qualification of building officials scrutinizing the plans and carrying
out inspection of buildings shall not in any case be less than those prescribed in Annex A
Restriction on Employees- No official or employee connected with the department of buildings except one
whose only connection is that of a member of the Board of Appeals, established under 8 shall be engaged directly
or indirectly in a work connected with the furnishing of labour, materials or appliances for the construction,
alteration or maintenance of a building, or the preparation of plans or of specifications thereof unless he is the
owner of building; nor shall such official or employee engage in any work which conflicts with his official duties
or with the interests of the department.
Records- Proper records of all applications received, permits and orders issued, inspections made shall be kept
and copies of all papers and documents connected with the administration of its duties shall be retained and all
such records shall be open to public inspection at all appropriate times.

POWER AND DUTIES OF TEAM OF BUILDING OFFICIALS -The team of building officials shall
enforce all the provisions of the Code and shall act on any question relative to the mode or manner of construction
and the materials to be used in the erection, addition, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, installation of service
equipment and the location, use, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings except as may otherwise be
specifically provided.
Application and Permits- The team of building officials shall receive all applications and issue permits for the
erection and alteration of buildings and examine the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce
compliance with the Code.
Building Notices and Orders- The team of building officials shall issue all necessary notices or orders to
remove illegal or unsafe conditions,
To require the necessary safeguards during construction, to require adequate exit facilities in existing buildings and
to ensure compliance with all the requirements of safety, health and general welfare of the public as included in the
Code.
Construction Not According to Plans- Should the team of building officials determine at any stage that the
construction is not proceeding according to the sanctioned plan or is in violation of any of the provisions of the
Code, or any other applicable Code Regulation, Act or Byelaw, it shall notify the owner, and all further construction
shall be stayed until correction has been effected and approved. 7.5.1 Should the owner fail to comply with the
requirements at any stage of construction, the Authority shall issue a notice to the owner asking explanation for
non-compliance. If the owner fails to comply within 14 days from the date of receiving the notice, the Authority
shall be empowered to cancel the building permit issued and shall cause notice of such cancellation to be securely
pasted upon the said construction, if the owner is not traceable at his address given in the notice. Pasting of such a
notice shall be considered sufficient notification of cancellation to the owner thereof. No further work shall be
undertaken or permitted upon such construction until a valid building permit thereafter has been issued. If the
owner, in violation of the notice for cancellation, continues the construction, the Authority may take all necessary
means to stop such work and further appropriate actions including demolitions.

The owner shall, however, have right to appeal against cancellation of permit, to the board of appeal,
within a stipulated period, as may be decided by the Authority.
Modification- Wherever practical difficulties are involved in carryingout any provision of the Code, the team
of building officials may vary or modify such provisions upon application of the owner or his representative
provided the spirit and intent of the Code shall be observed and public welfare and safety be assured. The
application for modification and the final decision of the team of building officials shall be in writing and shall be
officially recorded with the application for the permit in the permanent records of the Department of Building
BOARD OF APPEALS- In order to determine the suitability of alternative materials or methods of design or
construction and to provide for reasonable interpretation of the provisions of the Code or in the matter of dispute
relating to an ongoing construction vis-a-vis the sanctioned plan, a Board of Appeals consisting of members who are
qualified by experience and training and to pass judgement upon matters pertaining to building construction, shall
be appointed by the Authority. A representative of the team of building officials shall be an ex-officio member and
shall act as secretary to the Board. The Board shall adopt reasonable rules and regulations for conducting its
investigations and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the team of building officials with a duplicate
copy to the appellant and may recommend such modifications as are necessary.
VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
Offences and Penalties- Any person who contravenes any of the provisions of the Code or any requirements of
obligations imposed on him by virtue of the Code, or who interferes with or obstructs any person in the discharge of
his duties, shall be guilty of an offence and the Authority shall levy suitable penalty or take other actions as per the
Code.
The buildings/developments violating any applicable statutory rules shall be demolished/brought within the limits
as prescribed in such rules at the expense of the owner. The buildings coming up in the vicinity of an aerodrome in
violation of the height restriction laid down by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation shall be accordingly
demolished/brought within the limits prescribed by DGCA rules.

POWER TO MAKE RULES- The Authority may make rules for carrying out the provisions and intentions of
the Code provided that any rule shall not be in direct/indirect conflict or nullify/ dilute any of the provisions of the
Code.
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT/ BUILDING PERMIT
Application- Every owner who intends to develop, erect, re-erect or make alterations in any place in a building
shall give an application in writing to the Authority of his said intention in the prescribed form (see Annex B) and
such notice shall be accompanied by plans and statements in triplicate as required under except for special
buildings (high rise, non-residential) where additional copies may be submitted as desired by the Authority. The
Authority shall permit submission of plans/documents in electronic form.
Preparation and Signing of Plans- The registered architect/engineer/supervisor/town planner/landscape
architect/urban designer/utility service engineer shall prepare and duly sign the plans as per their competence (see
Annex A) and shall indicate his/her name, address, qualification and registration number as allotted by the
Authority or the body governing such profession. The structural plans and details shall also be prepared and duly
signed by the competent professionals like registered engineer/ structural engineer (see Annex A). The plans shall
also be duly signed by the owner indicating his address. The type and volume of buildings/development work to be
undertaken by the registered professionals may generally be as in Annex A.
Notice for Alteration Only- When the notice is only for an alteration of the building only such plans and
statements, as may be necessary, shall accompany the notice. No notice and building permit is necessary for the
following alterations, and the like which do not otherwise violate any provisions regarding general building
requirements, structural stability and fire and health safety requirements of the Code: a) Opening and closing of a
window or door or ventilator; b) Providing intercommunication doors; c) Providing partitions; d) Providing false
ceiling; e) Gardening; f) White washing; g) Painting; h) Re-tiling and re-roofing; j) Plastering and patch work; k)
Re-flooring; and m) Construction ofsunshades on one’
s own land.

Duration of Sanction- The sanction once accorded shall remain valid up to three years. The permit shall be got revalidated before the
expiration of this period. Revalidation shall be subject to the rules then in force.
Deviations During Construction- If during the construction of a building any departure from the sanctioned plan is intended to be made
sanction of the Authority shall be obtained before the change is made. The revised plan showing the deviations shall be submitted and the
procedure laid down for the original plan heretofore shall apply to all such amended plans except that the time limitspecified under shall be
three weeks in such cases.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE OWNER
Neither the granting of the permit nor the approval of the drawings and specifications, nor inspections made by the Authority during erection
of the building shall in any way relieve the owner of such building from full responsibility for carrying out the work in accordance with the
requirements of the Code
a) permit the Authority to enter the building or premises for which the permit has been granted at any reasonable time for the purpose of
enforcing the Code;
b) submit a document of ownership of the site;
c) obtain, where applicable, from the Authority, permits relating to building, zoning, grades, sewers, water mains, plumbing, signs, blasting,
street occupancy, electricity, highways, and all other permits required in connection with the proposed work;
d) give notice to the Authority of the intention to start work on the building site ;
e) give written notice to the Authority intimating completion of work up to plinth level;
g) give written notice to the Authority in case of termination of services of a professional engaged by him; and
h) obtain an occupancy permit from the Authority prior to any,
1) occupancy of the building or part thereof after construction or alteration of that building or part, or
2) change in the class of occupancy of any building or part thereof.
Documents at Site
a) a copy of the building permit; and
b) a copy of the approved drawings and specifications

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS- Every building/development work for which permission is sought under the Code shall be planned,
designed and supervised by registered professionals. The registered professionals for carrying out the various activities shall be: (a) Architect,
(b) Engineer, (c) Structural engineer, (d) Geotechnical engineer, (e) Supervisor, (f) Town planner, (g) Landscape architect, (h) Urban designer,
and (j) Utility service engineer. Requirements of registration for various professionals by the Authority or by the body governing such
profession and constituted under a statute, as applicable to practice within the local bodies jurisdiction, are given in A-2.1 to A-2.8. The
competence of such registered personnel to carry out various activities is also indicated in A-2.1.1 to A-2.8.1. The qualification and
competence of the engineers for utility services and of builder/constructor shall be as prescribed in A-2.9 and A-2.10, respectively.
ANNEX A
GUIDE FOR THE QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCE OF PROFESSIONALS
REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION AND COMPETENCE OF PROFESSIONALS
Architect- The minimum qualifications for an architect shall be the qualifications as provided for in the Architects Act, 1972 for registration
with the Council of Architecture. Competence The registered architect shall be competent to carryout the work related to the
building/development permit as given below:
a) Preparation of all plans and information connected with building permit except engineering services of high rise/special buildings
b) Issuing certificate of supervision and completion of all buildings pertaining to architectural aspects.
c) Preparation of subdivision/layout plans and related information connected with development permit of area up to 1 hectare for metro-cities,
and 2 hectare for other places.
d) Issuing certificate of supervision for development of land of area up to 1 hectare for metro-cities, and 2 hectare for other places.
Engineer- The minimum qualifications for an engineer shall be graduate in civil engineering/architectural engineering of recognized Indian or
foreign university, or the Corporate Member of Civil Engineering Division/ Architectural Engineering Division of the Institution of Engineers
(India) or the Member of the statutory body governing such profession, as and when established.

Structural Engineer- The minimum qualifications for a structural engineer shall be graduate in civil engineering of recognized Indian or
foreign university, or Corporate Member of Civil Engineering Division of Institution of Engineers (India), and with minimum 3 years
experience in structural engineering practice with designing and field work.
Geotechnical Engineer -The minimum qualifications for a geotechnical engineer shall be graduate in civil engineering of recognized Indian
or foreign university, or Corporate Member of Civil Engineering Division of Institution of Engineers (India), and with minimum 3 years
experience in geotechnical engineering practice with designing and field work.
Supervisor- The minimum qualifications for a supervisor shall be diploma in civil engineering or architectural assistantship, or the
qualification in architecture or engineering equivalent to the minimum qualification prescribed for recruitment to non- gazetted service by the
Government of India plus 5 years experience in building design, construction and supervision.
Town Planner- The minimum qualification for a town planner shall be the Associate Membership of the Institute of Town Planners or
graduate or post-graduate degree in town and country planning.
Landscape Architect- The minimum qualification for a landscape architect shall be the bachelor, masters degree in landscape architecture or
equivalent from recognized Indian or foreign university.
Urban Designer- The minimum qualification for an urban designer shall be the master’
s degree in urban design or equivalent from
recognized Indian or foreign university.
Engineers for Utility Services- For buildings identified in the work of building and plumbing services shall be executed under the planning,
design and supervision of competent personnel. The qualification for registered mechanical engineer (including HVAC), electrical engineer
and plumbing engineers for carrying out the work of Air conditioning, Heating and Mechanical Ventilation, Electrical Installations, Lifts and
Escalators and Water Supply, Drainage, Sanitation and Gas Supply installations respectively shall be as given in Part 8 ‘
Building Services’and
Part 9 ‘
Plumbing Services’of the Code or as decided by the Authority taking into account practices of the national professional bodies dealing
with the specialist engineering services.

ANNEX B- FORM FOR FIRST APPLICATION TO DEVELOP, ERECT, RE-ERECT OR TO MAKE ALTERATION
IN ANY PLACE IN A BUILDING
ANNEX C- FORM FOR CERTIFICATE FOR STRUCTURAL DESIGN SUFFICIENCY
ANNEX D- FORM FOR ENGAGEMENT OF BUILDER/CONSTRUCTOR
ANNEX E- FORM FOR SUPERVISION
ANNEX F- FORM FOR SANCTION OR REFUSAL OF DEVELOPMENT/BUILDING PERMIT
ANNEX G- FORM FOR NOTICE FOR COMMENCEMENT
ANNEX H- FORM FOR CERTIFICATE FOR SUBSURFACE INVESTIGATION
ANNEX J- FORM FOR CERTIFICATE FOR COMPLETED STRUCTURAL DESIGN WORK AS PER
STRUCTURAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
ANNEX K- FORM FOR CERTIFICATE FOR SUPERVISION OF WORK
ANNEX M- FORM FOR CERTIFICATE FOR COMPLETED WORK BY BUILDER/CONSTRUCTOR
ANNEX N- FORM FOR COMPLETION CERTIFICATE
ANNEX P- FORM FOR OCCUPANCY PERMIT

DEVELOPMENT CONTROL REGULATIONS & GENERAL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
by
H A R S H I T

What are the objectives of the Development Control Regulations?
1. To stop the unfavourable demand and misuse of land.
2. To assist private interest along with public interest in all phases of development.
3. Development control is legal in nature and the planning authority has the power to punish the defaulters.
4. To control and limit overcrowding on land.
5. To control the private development as per the required rules in connection to public safety, health,
and convenience.
Types of Development Controls Regulations are there?
1. Town and Country Planning Act
2. Building Bye-laws
3. Land Acquisition Act
4. Zoning Regulations
5. Slum Clearance Act
6. Periphery Control Act
How is Zoning Regulations dealt with?
1. Allotment of land for special purposes.
2. Limitation on the use, construction, and height of the building.
What are the key objectives of Zoning?
1. Zoning proves to be a useful means for making any town planning scheme effective and successful.
2. Zoning supports proper coordination of various public amenities such as road, electricity, drainage, water
connection, transport facilities, etc.

CONTROLLABLE FACTORS UNDER DCR
Floor Space Index (FSI)
It is the ratio between the total built-up area and the plot area available. It is authorized by the government
for a particular locality. It principally describes the ratio of the total covered area of construction to the total
plot size. It is sometimes termed as floor space compensation ratio (FSR), floor area ratio (FAR), site ratio
or plot ratio. FSI rules are usually based on the National Building Code.
As per the new DCR rules, balconies, stairs, voids, flower beds, and corners are calculated in FSI and to
compensate for the loss, the government has allowed compatible FSI up to 35% for residential and 20%
for commercial developments.
Parking space
There is a specified space for parking in residential, commercial and educational institutions as per the set laws in
different States.
However, as per the norms, the ideal parking size should be a minimum of 2.5 x 5.5 sq.m. (Motor Vehicle),
1.2-3 sq.m. (2 Wheeler), 3.75 x 7.5 sq.m. (Transport Vehicle).

Size of plots
As per the DCR, the size of plots appropriate for residential development varies according to the income
level of residents. The ideal size conditions under DCR are –
1. Low-Income Group (LIG) – 135-180 sq.m.
2. Mid-Income Group (MIG) – 216 to 360 sq.m.
3. High-Income Group (HIG) – 486 to 972 sq.m.
Structural design and services
The architectural design of a building should be executed as per the directed norms of the National Building
Code of India. The building must hold facilities of plumbing (for toilet and drinking), protection from electricity,
electrical installation, air-conditioning, lift, etc.
Lifts
A building with a height of more than 13 meters must have a lift from the ground floor. The minimum capacity
of the lift should be 6-persons.
Fire Safety
A building that exceeds more than three floors needs a certificate of approval from the Fire Department.
Besides, every floor with more than 150 sq.m. of floor area and a capacity of 20+ people should have at least
two doorways, along with a staircase for the fire exit.

GENERAL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTS OF PARTS OF BUILDINGS
Room Dimensions
Ceiling heights
(a) All habitable rooms in non-air-conditioned residential, business and mercantile buildings,
apart from kitchen, store room, utility room, box room and garage, shall have a ceiling height not less than 2.75 m
measured from the finished surface of the floor to the underside of the finished ceiling, or false ceiling.
A maximum of one-third of the floor area of such habitable rooms may, however, have a minimum ceiling height
of 2.44 m. For air-conditioned rooms in such buildings, the minimum ceiling height shall be 2.44 m. In the case of
pitched roof without a horizontal ceiling the lowest point of the finished ceiling shall be at least 2 m above the
finished surface of the floor and the average height of the ceiling shall not be less than 2.44 m.
(b) The minimum clear head room under the ceiling, folded plate, shell etc. and under the false ceiling or duct
in an air-conditioned room shall not be less than 2.44 m. The minimum clear distance between the floor below
and the soffit of a beam shall not be less than 2.15 m.

Room sizes
All habitable rooms used for sleeping and other purposes of a dwelling unit shall not be less than
9.5 m² of net floor area with a minimum width of 2.9 m and shall comply with indoor air quality requirement as
per provisions of this Code. Other non-habitable rooms in the dwelling unit shall have a minimum area of 5 m²
with a minimum width of 2 m.
Kitchen
The minimum clear height of kitchen measured from the finished surface of the floor to the finished ceiling shall
be 2.75 m, except for any floor trap of the upper floor which shall have a minimum clearance of 2.15 m above
the finished floor. The minimum clear height of kitchen shall be 2.15 m where mechanical exhaust is installed.
The minimum floor area of kitchen without provision for dining shall be 4 m² with a minimum width of 1.5 m.
The minimum floor area of a kitchen which is intended to provide dining or occasional sleeping space shall be
7.5 m² with a minimum width of 2.2 m.
Every kitchen shall be provided with a kitchen sink or other means for washing utensils. The waste water shall be
discharged into the waste water pipe or drain.
The floor of the kitchen shall be slip-resistant and water tight.
Every kitchen shall be provided with window having a minimum area of 1 m² which shall open to the exterior
or to an interior open space.

Bathroom and Toilets
The height of any bathroom, toilet or water closet shall not be less than 2.15 m measured from the finished
floor surface to the finished ceiling or false ceiling or to the lowest point of any trap of the upper floor's plumbing
system.
The minimum requirement of floor area and width of a bathroom with 3 fixtures, 2 fixtures or single fixture shall
conform to the space standards of Table.
Every bathroom, toilet and water closet shall be located against an exterior wall or wall on the interior open
space , except where they are ventilated through an interior lighting and ventilation shaft. Such interior lighting
and ventilation shafts shall have the minimum dimensions specified in table below for different heights of buildings.

Stairways
Sum of two risers and one tread excluding nosing dimension shall not be less than 610 mm and not more than
648 mm. All Risers and Treads shall be identical in consecutive two flights starting from one floor to another floor.
Difference between two consecutive risers or treads shall not be more than 5 mm.
The maximum flight height between landings shall not be more than 3660 mm.
For Assembly occupancy, maximum flight height between landings shall not be more than 2440 mm.
The minimum clear head room between flights of a staircase shall be 2.15 m.
The clear head room may be reduced to 2.03 m for not more than three flights in any staircase.
The minimum clear height of any passage below a landing providing access to non-habitable and service
spaces shall be 2.03 m.
The minimum clear height of all other passages and spaces below a landing shall be 2.15 m.
Handrails shall have a minimum height of 0.9 m measured from the nose of stair to the top of the handrail.

Mezzanine Floor
Each mezzanine floor area in a space shall not exceed one-third of the main floor area.
The area of the mezzanine shall be included in calculating the FAR.
The clear headroom both over and under the mezzanine floor shall be at least 2.2 m.
The lighting and ventilation of the space both over and under the mezzanine floor shall not be obstructed in any way.
Lofts
Space under slope roof termed lofts shall not be used as a habitable space where minimum ceiling height is less than
the requirement but more than 1.5 m.
The minimum ceiling height requirements for various rooms shall be maintained under the loft.
A maximum of 25% of the floor area of any room may be covered by a loft, except bathrooms, toilets, water closets,
store rooms and corridors where the whole area may have an overhead loft.
(The loft shall not interfere with the lighting and ventilation of any room).
Cabins or Chambers
Cabins or Chambers created by removable partitions on open floor shall have a minimum area of 3m2.
Clear passages at least 0.75 m wide shall be maintained between the cabins leading to a means of exit which
shall in no case be further than 16 m from any cabin.
A clear gap of at least 300 mm shall be maintained between the top of the partition walls enclosing the cabin and
the ceiling, unless the cabin is exposed to the exterior deriving natural light and ventilation or is artificially lighted
and ventilated.
Store Room
A store room provided in a dwelling unit of a residential building shall have a minimum area of 1.5 m2 with a
minimum width of 1m. The clear height of the store room shall not be less than 2.2 m.

Basement
Any underground floor of a building wholly or partially below formation level shall be called a basement
and shall satisfy the requirements of the following sections.
The area of the basement shall be included in the calculation of FAR.
The walls and floors of the basement shall be damp-proof and water-proof as per provision of this Code.
The basement shall be protected against surface and sub-surface waste water intrusion.
The basement shall be lighted and ventilated as per provision of this Code.
The staircases of a building serving above grade level also entering into below street floor level shall be enclosed
by barrier wall with two door smoke proof vestibule shall have minimum 2 hours fire resistance time.
Ramp
provided as walkways shall not be steeper than 1 vertical in 8 horizontal.
The clear height of the basement below soffit of beams shall not be less than 2.03 m.
Parapet
All accessible flat roofs shall be enclosed by parapets or guardrails having a height of at least 1 m.
All such parapets and guardrails shall be designed to withstand the lateral forces due to wind and occupancy
in conformity with the provisions of Part 6 of this Code.
Septic Tank
A septic tank shall be provided within the premises for disposal of sewage, whether any public sewers available
or not. The location, design and construction of the septic tank shall conform to the requirements of this
Code

F I R E A N D L I F E S A F E T Y
by
K A V Y A

CAUSES OF FIRE IN BUILDINGS
• Accumulation of Scrap, waste material, trash etc. increases the risk of
fire
• Under the right conditions the build up of dust from wood, plastic or
certain metal operations can lead to fire or explosions
A situation in which there is a greater than normal risk of harm to
people and property due to fire
FIRE HAZARD
The Fire Triangle
For a Fire to start following are needed
1. Fuel (Gases, Liquids or Solids)
2. Oxygen
3. Ignition source
Once the fire starts the rising temperature creates more flammable
gases and increase intensity of fire safety deals with taking steps to
avoid completion of Fire triangle

D-type fire:
• Hot work involving metals and open flames can
cause this fire hazard
• Machines when not lubricated properly can over
heat and start fire
• Combustible metals like magnesium, titanium,
zirconium, sodium, lithium and potassium can react
with extinguishing material used in A,B,C type of
fires and increase the intensity of fire hence special
type of Extinguishers are needed for D-type fires
CAUSES OF FIRE IN BUILDINGS
K-type fire
• Kitchen fires involving large amounts of heated oil,
flames coming from gas pipes etc.
A-type fire:
• Commonly used house hold materials like paper, card
board, wood and products made from these materials
• Foam or plastic cups, utensils when close to heat burn
rapidly and give off toxic dense black smoke
• Oily rags or other materials soaked in oil can also
spontaneously combust
B-type fire:
• The unsafe storage, dispensing or disposal of
flammable liquids can be a prime source of this
type of fires and explosions
• Commonly used flammable liquids like Oil,
grease, diesel, petrol, paint, solvents and tar are
primary source of these fires
C-type fire:
• Over loaded circuits, fuse boxes, damaged wiring and defective
switches can lead to this type of fires
• Extension chords, multi plug adapters etc. can also lead to
initiation of sparks which if come in contact with flammable
materials can cause fire

Fire prevention is based on the following:
• Occupancy
• Fire zones
• Types of construction
• General requirement of all occupancies
• Electrical installation
a. Emergency power for fire and life safety
system
b. Substation
c. Lightning protection
d. Escape lighting and exit signage
e. HVAC and smoke control
f. Glazing
g. Surface interior finish
h. Fire Command Centre
Fire Prevention
• Fire resistance rating of service shaft and duct opening of 2 hours.
• Inspection door and duct opening should have same resistance
rating of service shaft.
• Facade protection and openable windows in facade shall have fire
protection and smoke exhaust aspects
• Compartment criteria of different occupancies and fire separating
wall & floor partitions are modified

TERMINOLOGY
1. Fire prevention – covering aspects of fire prevention
pertaining to design and construction of buildings on
passive fire protection measures also describing the
various types of building materials and their fire rating.
2. Life safety – Covering life safety provisions in the
event of fire and similar emergency, also addressing
construction and occupancy features that are necessary
to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or
panic.
3. Fire protection – covering the significant accessories
and their related components and guidelines for
selecting the correct type of equipment and installation
meant for fire protection of the building depending on
the classification and type of building.
Fire Resistance - a property of an element of building
construction and is the measure of its ability to satisfy for a
stated period, some or all of the following criteria,
• Load bearing capacity - ability of a load bearing element to
withstand fire exposure without any loss of structural
stability.
• Integrity - Resistance to penetration of flame and hot gases
• Insulation - Resistance to temperature rise on the
unexposed face up to a maximum of 180°C at any single
point and average temperature of 140°C

Building planning considerations for Fire prevention
1. Passive Fire Protection (PFP) – PFP attempts to contain fires or slow the spread through use of fire-resistant walls,
floors, and doors. 2. Non combustible materials – Building Components like floors, walls, columns, beams, ceilings,
roofs, shafts etc. should be fire rated building elements and have fire resistance rating as stated in the NBC
2. The floor area ratio of different buildings is as below:

1) The external enclosing walls of the staircase shall be of the brick or the R.C.C. construction having fire resistance of
not less than two hours.
2) All enclosed staircases shall have access through self-closing door of one-hour fire resistance
3) The staircase enclosures on the external wall of the building shall be ventilated to the atmosphere at each landing.
4) There shall be no glazing or the glass bricks in any internal closing wall of staircase
5) If the staircase is in the core of the building and cannot be ventilated at each landing, a positive pressure of 5-mm.
e.g. by electrically operated blower/blowers shall be maintained
6) Provision of the lifts shall be made for all multi-storeyed building having
a height of 15.0 m. and above.
7) All the floors shall be accessible for 24 hrs. by the lift.The lift provided in
the buildings shall not be considered as a means of escape in case of
emergency 8) Grounding switch at ground floor level to enable the fire
service to ground the lift car in case of emergency shall also be provided
9) Walls of lift enclosures shall have a fire rating of two hours. Lift shafts
shall have a vent at the top of area not less than 0.2 sq m.
10) Landing door in lift enclosures shall have a fire resistance of not less
than one hour.
STAIRS AND LIFTS
11) The number of lifts in one lift bank shall not exceed four.A wall of two
hours fire rating shall separate individual shafts in a bank.
12) Lift car door shall have a fire resistance rating of 1 hour.

Fire Escapes or External Stairs
1) Fire escape shall not be taken into account while calculating the number of staircases for a
building.
2) All fire escapes shall be directly connected to the ground.
3) Entrance to the fire escape shall be separate and remote from internal staircase.
4) The route to fire escape shall be free of obstructions at all times except the doorway leading to the
fire escape
5) Fire escape shall be constructed of non-combustible materials.
6) Fire escape stairs shall have straight flight not less than 125 cm wide with 25 cm treads and risers
not more than 19 cm.
7) Handrails shall be at a height not less than 100 cm.
8) No combustible material shall be allowed in the fire tower.

AIR CONDITIONING
1)Escape routes like staircase, common corridors, lift
lobbies; etc. should not be used as return air passage.
2) The ducting should be constructed of metal.
3) Wherever the ducts pass through fire walls or floor,
the opening around the ducts should be sealed with
fire resisting material of same rating as of walls/floors.
4) The material used for insulating the duct system
(inside or outside) should be flame resistant and non-
conductor of heat.
5) Area more than 750 sq m. on individual floor should
be segregated by a firewall.
6) In case of buildings more than 24 m. in height, in
non-ventilated lobbies and corridors, smoke extraction
shaft should be provided.
FIRE DAMPERS
1) These shall be located in air ducts and return air
ducts/passages 2) The dampers shall operate
automatically and shall simultaneously switch off the air-
handling fans. Manual operation facilities shall also be
provided.
3) In case of buildings more than 24 m. in height, in non-
ventilated lobbies and corridors, smoke extraction shaft
should be provided.

• Dry Riser – An arrangement of firefighting within
the building by means of vertical rising main not
less than 100 mm internal diameter with valves on
each floor/landing, which is normally dry but is
capable of being charged with water usually by
pumping from fire service appliances
• An arrangement for firefighting within the building by
means of vertical rising mains not less than 100 mm
nominal diameter with landing valves on each floor/landing
for firefighting purposes and permanently charged with
water from a pressurized supply
FIRE MAINS

FIRE MAINS
1) Fire mains are provided in all buildings that are more than 15 m tall. In buildings less than 50 m tall, either a wet riser
or dry riser fire main can be provided.
2) Dry risers are used when the water pressure of a building wouldn't be enough for fire suppression, and in cold climates
where the wet riser pipes could freeze.
3) However, where a building extends to more than 50 m, wet risers are necessary as the pumping pressure required to
charge the riser is higher than can be provided by a fire service appliance, and to ensure an immediate supply of water is
available at high level.
4) Wet risers are charged with water from a pressurized supply, often pumped from a storage tank, with landing valves at
specified locations on each floor.

FIRE DETECTION ALARM
• Functions -
• Detect fire in the areas.
• Notify building occupants to take evasive action to escape the dangers
of a fire.
• Summon organized assistance to initiate or assist in fire control
activities.
• Initiate automatic fire control & suppression systems & start the alarm.
• Supervise fire control & suppression systems to assure operational
status is maintained

B U I L D I N G M A T E R I A L S
by
J A T I N D E R

• The National Building Code of India (NBC), (a comprehensive building Code), is a national instrument providing guidelines for regulating the
building construction activities across the country.
• It serves as a Model Code for adoption by all agencies involved in building construction works be they Public Works Departments, other
government construction departments, local bodies or private construction agencies.
• The Code mainly contains administrative regulations, development control rules and general building requirements; fire safety requirements;
stipulations regarding materials, structural design and construction (including safety); and building and plumbing services.
• The National Building Code was first published in 1970 at the instance of Planning Commission and then revised in 1983. Thereafter three
major amendments were issued, two in 1987 and the third in 1997.
WHAT ISNATIONAL BUILDING CODE

INTEGRATEDAPPROACH -PREREQUISITEFORAPPLYING PROVISION
OFTHE CODE.
DEFINITIONS
ADMINISTRATION
DEVELOPMENTCONTROL RULESAND GENERALBUILDING
REQUIREMENTS
FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY
BUILDING MATERIALS
STRUCTURAL DESIGN
CONSTRUCTIONALPRACTICES AND SAFETY
BUILDING SERVICES
PLUMBING SERVICES
LANDSCAPING, SIGNSAND OUTDOOR DISPLAY
STRUCTURES
CONTENTS

PURPOSEOFNBC CODE
Mosthavecomeinto play"after-
the-fact"asalearningexperience
fromamajortragedy.
75%of all codesand
standardsdealwith fire
Energy
conservation
Accessibility
Hazardousmaterialsor
equipmentusedin the
building
They areprimarily
concernedwith
Construction requirements
Ensurepublichealthandsafety
throughouta building.

RESIDENTIALBUILDINGSAS PERNBC
Lodgingor
roominghouses.
One ortwo-familyprivate
dwellings
Apartment
housesorflats.
Hotels.
TheNBC definesresidentialbuildingsasconstructions ‘inwhichsleeping
accommodationisprovidedfor normalresidentialpurposes,withorwithoutcookingor
diningorbothfacilities, exceptanybuilding classifiedunderGroup C’.
TYPESOF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
Dormitories.

BUILDINGMATERIAL
The revised version of National Building Code- NBC 2016,the state-of-the-art and most contemporary
building code to regulate building construction in the country, focuses on new innovative construction
materialsandtechnologies,equipment,andmachinesfor futuresustainabledevelopments.
SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL
Inviewof thegrowingtrendof green/sustainablebuildings, therevisedNational BuildingCode seeks to
promoteecologicallyappropriatepractices,useof eco-friendly constructionmaterialsand conventional
andalternate technologytowardsthecreationof sustainablehumansettlements.It describes
comprehensivesustainability stand-ardsfor thebuilding constructionandrelated built environment.
The approachto sustainability isfoundedin theprinciplesof Code to adequatelyprotect public health,
safetyandwelfare,andto meetrequirementsthat donotunnecessarilyincrease construction-cost nor
restrict theuseof newinnovative materials,productsormethodsof construction.

BUILDINGMATERIAL
ORGANIC MATERIAL
Buildingmaterialchoicesareimportantin sustainabledesignbecauseof extensivenetwork of
activities suchasextraction, processing,andtransportationstepsrequiredfor makingmaterial
andactivities involvedthereaftertill building constructionandevenafterthat.
There are many frequently used building materials like reconstituted wood products, paints,
glues, carpet, and upholstery which may release gases, fumes etc., from chemical components
usedevenlongafterinstallation.
TheseVolatile Organic Compounds(VOCs) affect theenvironmentandhumanhealth.
The useof rapidlyrenewablematerial,recycledmaterials,minimizetheadverseimpact. With
properselection of materials,techniques,equipmentinstallations,cost-optimization canbe
achieved.

GLAZINGS
• Thegrowingtrendofglazedwindows/doorsinbuildingsandstructures,hasconsiderablyincreased the
importanceofglazingandneedforproperworkmanship.Consideringtheimportanceof glazinginbuilding
construction,glass,theprimaryglazingelementhasto beselectedto caterto severalrequirements andthe
glazing hasto be designed to meet various engineering requirements.
• Consideringallthis,NationalBuildingCode (NBC),forthefirst time,hasintroducedaseparate sectionon
glazingwhichprovidesguidanceintheselectionofappropriateglazingforvarioustypes ofbuilding
construction,energy,andlightaspectsbesidesselectingthicknessofglassforglazing andhumanimpact safety.
• With aviewto boostsustainability,thebuildingcodeforthefirst timeincludesprocessforglazing inbuildings
withrespectto theireffect onenergy,lightandselectionandmanifestationofglass withrespectto safety.
BUILDINGMATERIAL

BUILDINGMATERIAL
MATERIAL AND TECHNOLOGY
Provensiliconesthat enabledurableandhigh-performingdesignsthroughavastoffering of
sealantsandcoatingsfor structural glazing,weatherproofing,windowanddoor,insulating
glassandinfrastructure
Polyurethanesystemsthatdeliverhigh-performancecoating,adhesive,sealantand
insulationsolutionsacrossawiderangeofapplications
Acrylic bindersandadditives thatofferdurabilityin applications rangingfromdispersion-
basedrendersto cool roofcoatingsto cementitiouswaterproofing membranes
Cellulosictechnologythat enhancesworkability, adhesion,andwaterretention in cement-
basedtile adhesives,self-levelingflooringandotherapplications

KITCHEN -
Everykitchenmusthaveprovisionforwashingutensils,withproperconnectionto drainage.
Thekitchenmustbeprovidedwithanimpermeable floor.
Thekitchenmustopeninto aninterior orexterioropenspaceandshouldnotbelessthanone
Thekitchenshouldnotopeninto ashaft.
Nochutesto beusedinbuildingsabove15metres.
LOFTS
Apart fromshops,loftsarepermittedinresidential buildingsonly.
Theareaof theloft shouldberestricted to 25%of thecoveredarea.
Theheightbetweentheloft andceilingshouldnotbelessthan1.75metres.
NBCGUIDELINESRELATEDTO :

WASHROOMS -
Oneof thewallsshouldhaveanopeningto theopenair.Minimumventilationorwindowspaceshouldbe
providedmeasuringupto 0.37sqmetres.
A bathroommustalwaysbeoveranotherbathroomorwashingplaceortheterracespaceandnotoveranother
room.Watertight floorscanbeanexceptionto thisrule.
Theseatshouldbemadeof non-absorbentmaterial.
Bathroomsshouldbeenclosedbypartitions/walls,providedwith animpervioussurfacewith aheightprescribed
asnotlessthanonemetre.
Thefloor coveringshouldbeimpervioustoo butslopingtowardsthedrainandnottowardsanyotherroomor
balcony space.
A roomprovidedwith awaterclosetisto beusedasatoilet only.Theseroomsmustbeprovidedwith flush
cisterns.
If thereisatoilet ontheterracewith aheightof 2.2metres,it shouldbecountedintheFloorArea Ratio(FAR). In
theabsenceof asewageoutlet, aseptictankmustbe provided
NB GUIDELINESRELATEDTO :

SALIENTFEATURESOF NBC
Inclusionof acompletephilosophyanddirectionfor successfullyaccomplishing
thebuildingprojectsthroughintegratedmultidisciplinaryapproachright from
conceptualstagethroughplanning,designing,construction,operationand
maintenance stages.
A seriesof reformsinbuildingpermitprocess.
Provisionfor ensuringsafetyof buildingsagainstnaturaldisaster&certification
of structuralsufficiencybyengineer& structural engineer.
Permissionof twostagepermitfor highriseresidentialandspecial buildings.

SALIENTFEATURESOF NBC
• Provisionforperiodicrenewalcertificateofoccupiedbuildingsfromstructural,
fire,electrical,healthsafetypoint of view
• Provisionforempoweringengineers/architectsforsanctioningplansfor
residentialbuildingsupto 500sqm.
• Revisionofparkingrequirementsformetro& megacities.(megacitiesare
metroswithpopulationmorethan50lacs)
• Upgradationofspecialrequirementsforlowincomehousingforurbanareas.
Inclusionofspecialrequirementsforlowincomehousingforruralhabitat
planning

CONCLUSION
• Codessettheminimumcriteria.Youcanfollowstricterrequirementsatany
time.
•Theyarenotalwaysperfectlyclear.Whentworequirementsaresimilar,gowith
thestrictest requirement.
•Not allofthemwillapplyto everydesign
situation. Work with the code official to resolve
discrepancies.

LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT , SIGNS & OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES
by
A M A N
SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE PLANNING , DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

SCOPE
This Code covers requirements of landscape planning, design and development with the view to promoting quality
of outdoor built and natural environments and the protection of land and its resources.
TERMINOLOGY
Avenue- A wide road or pathway lined with trees on either side.
Buffer- The use of landscape elements to reduce or curtail view, sound or dust with plants or earth berms, wall etc.
Canopy/Tree canopy -The average horizontal spread of the tree, taken from dripline to dripline.
Climber- A woody or herbaceous plant which either clings to a wall, trellis or other structures or can be supported
or trained as it grows.
Erosion- Wearing away of soils, rocks, sediments, etc., by gradual action of natural processes (such as water, wind
and glacier).
Kerb- A concrete or stone or similar hard edging along a pathway, or along a road, often constructed with a
channel to guide the flow of stormwater.

Geo-Textile- Any permeable textile or fabric (natural or synthetic) used to retain or protect soil and filter and drain
water as an integral part of project, structure or system such as terrace garden, etc.
Grading- The cutting and/or filling of earth to establish finished contours. (NOTE: Grading facilitates good drainage
and shapes land to suit the intent.)
Green Walls- A supporting structure completely or partially covered with vegetation which is grown with soil or
growing medium. It can be either free standing or part of a structure. They include climbing plants such as vines
that grow directly on the wall, or walls that comprise of modular panels, containers and an integrated irrigation
system.
Hard Landscape- Civil work component of landscape development such as pavements, walkways, roads, retaining
walls, sculptures, street amenities, fountains and other elements of the built environment.
Hardy Plant- Plants that can withstand harsh temperature variations, harsh wind, pollution, dust, extreme soil
conditions, and can tolerate either drought or flooding.
Hedge- Shrubs or trees (usually of the same species) planted closely together in a linear configuration. A hedge may
be pruned to shape or allowed to grow to assume its natural shape.
Herb- A plant with a non-woody or fleshy structure. Certain herbs are highly useful for cooking or of high medicinal
value.
Ingress- A way in, or entrance.

Soft Landscape- The natural elements in landscape design, such as plant materials and the soil itself.
Landscape Development Documents Required for Statutory Approvals
• Landscape Master Plan - The site plan to be submitted with the application for permit shall be drawn to a scale
of not less than 1 in 200 for a site up to one hectare and not less than 1 in 500 for site up to 10 hectare and not
less than 1 in 1 000 for site more than 10 hectare.
• Location of existing major physical features, such as railway track, drainage ways.
• Point of egress and ingress including locations and width of road.
• Fully dimensioned loading spaces and maneuvering areas (used by aircraft for takeoff, landing).
• Parking including, location, parking spaces, size and number, and typical parking space details for both persons
with disabilities and for standard spaces.
• Location of proposed fire hydrant points.
• Location of fire lanes.
• Proposed lighting layout.
• Landscape irrigation points and source of irrigation water.
• Vegetation for screening by type, material, height, location, and spacing or fences, walls.
• Location of proposed street furniture, landscape structure
• Grading Plan and Stormwater Management Plan
• Planting Plan
• Location of proposed trees, shrubs, ground covers including grass area indicated clearly with appropriate
symbols and legend shall be indicated.
• The shape, size, diameter of canopy of plants with their possible growth in coming 3 years shall be indicated.

• All existing vegetation shall be marked on the landscape plan
• Materials and Finishes Plan
• Basic Design and Construction Details
• All paved areas for pedestrian and vehicular use, including edges, kerbs, bumper stops, steps, ramps, planters,
railings or other protective devices; tree protection with tree grating, tree guard, etc.;
• Boundary wall, fence, retaining wall, etc.
• Structures in landscape such as gatehouses, kiosks, toilets, pergolas, space frame, pools, ponds, water bodies,
any other special features.
GENERAL LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES
The general landscape development guidelines should be applied at two levels:
• Masterplan level- This consists of those projects where the level of intervention is restricted to large scale
landscape site planning.
• Detailed landscape design level- This consists of those projects where detailed landscape design is involved.
Open spaces are often further defined based upon access and ownership as public, semi-public and private.
Planning and design of open spaces should consider the following aspects:
Sustainability -Environmental sustainability and green principles may be incorporated to ensure that landscape
development does not hamper the existing ecology of the site and its surroundings.

Land, vegetation and water sensitive design options may be explored during the design stage by incorporating a
clear grading, drainage and planting strategy while developing the landscape concept. Cut and fill of the land may
be minimized while locating the built blocks and circulation spaces.
Accessibility- The planning and design of open spaces may be accessible for a wide range of users, including
pedestrians, cyclist, transit riders and those using private modes of transport.
An ideal public space may be well connected to a surrounding bus/metro/mass rapid transit system facility or a
neighborhood street or a regional route.
Resilience- Resilience is the ability of a landscape to adapt to change and regain its original state when subject to
shock, such as flooding, drought and pest attack. Natural landscapes have an inherent ability to exhibit resilience,
while human altered landscapes should be designed to incorporate resilience as a core principle of design.
The following types of generic open spaces may be identified:
1) Regional parks/city parks,
2) Roads,
3) Public plazas and urban squares,
4) Multipurpose open spaces/mela grounds,
5) Urban riverfronts and waterfronts,
6) District parks/neighborhood parks,
7) Theme parks/waterparks,
8) Sports facilities/playgrounds/stadium complexes/sports center,
9) Golf courses/equestrian grounds,
10) Plant nurseries,
11) Pocket parks, and

PLANTING DESIGN
Plant material is a very important component of landscape development, and planting design is integral to any
landscape plan. Designing with plants requires awareness and knowledge of a broad range of aspects including
ecology, botany, horticulture, aesthetic value, growth and survival, and use of plants to address environmental and
ecological concerns.
Vegetation Types (Evergreen and Deciduous)-
Evergreen trees
• For places requiring shade throughout the year,
• For strong visual screening,
• As part of windbreak or shelter planting, and
• For areas where leaf litter is to be discouraged.
Deciduous trees
• For greater visual variety,
• As partial visual barrier,
• For areas where under-planting is to be encouraged (for example, grass),
• For emphasis on branching and flowering pattern, and
• For areas where shade is not required throughout the year.

Functional Aspects of Design with Plants
Plant materials in landscape design may be used to,
• improve existing environmental conditions with respect to soil, drainage, microclimate, air pollution;
• create a designed physical environment through the organization of open space; and
• interpret and express the contemporary understanding of the man-nature relationship, that is, design with
plants on an ecological rather than horticultural basis.
Trees perform the following functions:
• Improvement in air quality,
• Increase in oxygen levels,
• Protection of soil,
• Modification in microclimate,
• Providing shade,
• Providing habitat for fauna,
• Providing enclosure,
• Providing direction and framing views,
• Screening,
• Providing visual relief,
• Reduction in noise levels,

SERVICE/UTILITIES IN LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT
The following services, generally, are the subject of design coordination work for external areas:
Stormwater drainage
• Stormwater network;
• pen drain and swale;
• Subsurface drainage system
• Catch basin and manholes;
• Culvert and bridge
• Percolation pits;
• Water harvesting units;
• Retention walls and tanks
• Connection of all service lines up to outfall;
• Other related structures.
Sewage disposal system
• Sewerage network;
• Manholes, inspection chambers and grease trap;
• Septic tank, soak-pits, sewage treatment plant and root zone unit
• Solid waste management units;
• Connection of all service lines up to outfall; and

SERVICE/UTILITIES IN LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT
The following services, generally, are the subject of design coordination work for external areas:
Water supply
• Water supply network;
• Inspection chamber and valve chamber;
• Water tank and treatment plant;
• Tube well, bore well and associated pump houses, etc.;
• Service lines, elements associated with water features and pools; and
• Irrigation lines and allied requirements.
Fire lines
• Yard hydrant lines;
• Yard or fire hydrants and hose reel box;
• Fire water tank and pumps; and
• Inspection chamber and valve chamber.
Electrical works
• Electrical network;
• Light fixtures for road, pedestrian paths, special landscape features and building façade;
• Inspection chambers, junction boxes and feeder pillars;
• Electric poles, high voltage lines and towers;
• Transformer, substation and distribution box.

APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY
by
M R I N A L I N I

PART 11 : APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY
INTRODUCTION:
Modern buildings in India consume about 25 to 30 percent of total energy, and up to 30 percent of fresh potable water, and
generate approximately 40 percent of total waste. India is now entering the phase of rapid urbanization but with its projected
growth, unless enough measures are taken, it may lead to acceleration of environment degradation, contributing to increased
carbon footprint leading to global warming and climate change, resource scarcity and inequitable development.
Realizing this fact, there are efforts for a changing approach towards nature from ‘
humanization of nature’to ‘
naturization of
human’and more recently towards sustainable development. The concept is to ensure that every living being on earth have
equal opportunity to utilize the natural resources for survival and mutual sustenance.
The consequential building envelope to create harmonious development and productive living environment with
neighbourhood and building environments poses one of the biggest challenges in selection of building materials, technologies
and practices. It may be a combination of natural and manmade materials with least embodied energy and also leading to use
of rapidly renewable resources.

# Site Design: The responsible design professional shall prepare an assessment of the onsite natural resources and pre-site conditions. The person shall,
1) Establish, if there are any natural resources, recreational areas, contour/terrains, agricultural land, coastal regulations, protected areas etc. and demonstrate that no critical natural resource is
impacted by the project.
2) Establish the degree to which the existing soil at site and hydrology has been disturbed prior to development and demonstrate various site erosion protection measures taken including
measures to preserve natural stormwater drainage system, top soil and existing vegetation, minimize soil disturbance.
3) Identify and ensure water supply , power, communication, sewerage lines, saving/replanting of old trees, removal of existing invasive vegetation on site and that no invasive vegetation is
planted post completion.
4) Identify the natural resources available onsite and surrounding areas and ensure optimum utilization of the same in construction and post occupancy.
# Building Form, Orientation and Shading:
1) The designs should be based on the heating degree days and cooling degree days of the actual location of the building.
2) There should be adequate provision for external shading of the facades during the peak summer season
3) There should be adequate provision for vertical shading to prevent direct solar radiation and glare due to low altitude sun angles, specifically on the eastern and western facades
4) The building should be oriented optimally based on sun-path and engineering analysis
5) There should be adequate protection for the building envelope against thermal losses, drafts and degradation by natural elements such as wind, dust, sand, snow, rainwater, hail, etc.
6) Ensure appropriate shading design with optimal building orientation for the project such that the facades are shaded for more than 50 percent of the summer solstice.
7) A solar path analysis shall be done as an aid in arriving at optimum form and orientation for the building.
# Thermal Massing: Evaluate the impact on thermal mass and energy performance of the building based on the sun-path analysis and local/equivalent weather data. A report showing both the
optimal thermal massing and the choice and justification of the proposed wall material of the building together with the design approach for decision making shall be prepared, together with
other documents while applying for the building permit.
# Reduced Building Footprint in Multi-story Building Designs: In any case, at least 30 percent of the open spaces shall be maintained as softscapes (permeable surface on ground). For areas
where the calculated softscape area requirement is less than 10 percent of the total plot area, a minimum of 10 percent softscape area shall be provided.
# Optimum Building Volume: For air conditioned buildings, efforts shall be made in design to reduce building volume by reducing floor to floor and floor to ceiling height without
compromising the utility and functional efficiency of the building. For natural ventilated buildings or mixed mode ventilated building, the optimum building volume and floor to floor heights to
be ascertained and a report on the design and justification of the same shall be prepared.
# Natural Ventilation, Cooling and Wind Effects: A Narrative on application of cross-ventilation and thermal comfort, factoring prevalent wind patterns, seasonality, stack effect and other
principles that have been factored in the design shall be prepared.
# Building Service Life: A building service life plan shall be prepared along with the design and construction documents. The plan shall clearly indicate the design service life and the minimum
design service life shall be not less than 60 years for the structure itself and not less than 10 years for various service components, equipment and systems within the building
SITING, FORM AND DESIGN

EXTERNAL DEVELOPMENT AND LANDSCAPE
• # Landscape Planning and Design: Proper landscaping helps in maintaining natural capacity of site for stormwater management, filtration, groundwater recharge and maintenance of
soil structure thereby contributing to soil organic matter, and preventing erosion.
1) For sustainable site planning, perviousness in the paved areas of the site may be maximized since it helps in holding rainwater, reducing the rate of storm water flow, infiltrating storm
water into the ground for reuse and also helps in filtering the rainwater.
2) Shading and/or use of light-colored/high albedo materials and/or open grid pavement for the sites non-roof impervious surfaces, including parking lots, walkways, plazas, etc., shall be
made to help in reducing the heat island effect.
3) Vegetation placed in strategic locations around buildings provides an opportunity to reduce energy consumption and costs associated with indoor climate control for cooling. Roof
garden and/or green walls or vertical landscaping may also be provided as it helps in conserving energy by providing shading.
4) External landscapes shall be designed taking the shading pattern of the buildings into consideration.
# Water related practices:
1) Rainwater may be collected from any kind of roof and should be diverted to specially designed storage or recharge tanks, as per the requirement.
2) Volumes of rainwater or water from other non-potable sources available on site for use in water features shall be estimated, and water features shall be so designed that these are
integrated with the site so as to utilize this water on site.
3) Non-potable water from sources such as gray water, reclaimed water or storm-water basins shall be collected and used for non-potable applications.
4) A sub-surface drainage system shall be planned in areas covered with turf to collect excess water for reuse.
5) Decreasing impervious surfaces through permeable paving, tree planting zones, etc, to increase groundwater infiltration and prevent seasonal flooding.
# Transportation Plans:
1) Design and construction ensuring safety and comfort of all the users.
2) Considerations to overhangs, arcades and closely built buildings providing shading and comfort in summer to the public realm
3) Orientation of streets to allow the desirable directional wind flow through streets and public spaces in summer and block undesirable winds in winter, to ensure comfort in the public
use areas.
4) Proper street grid density to ensure small blocks and an interconnected street network to provide a walkable, public transport friendly neighbourhood.
5) Commercial/hawking zones at regular intervals in accordance with the local byelaws/ masterplan (within 5 min walk from every home in the city) to encourage walkability and increased
street activity and to provide safety.
6) Accessible public toilets at every 500 m to 800 m distance, preferably located close to bus stops for easy access by pedestrians and public transport users.

ENVELOPE OPTIMIZATION
# Building Envelope: The building envelope should be designed to conserve energy substantially. Well designed building envelope maximizes daylight, natural ventilation (access to fresh
air) and views to the exterior, and enables to modulate solar heat gain and control/reduce noise. The building envelope may also be designed to integrate systems for renewable energy and
rainwater harvesting. The primary components of building envelope which affect the performance of a building are: walls, roof (including skylights and clerestories), fenestration (openings
with or without glazing), floor, and surface finishes.
1) . Insulation should always be placed on the hotter side of the building as it plays an important role in reducing the thermal conductance or U-value of walls.
2) Thermal mass is particularly effective in hot dry climate with larger diurnal range. The building mass stores heat during daytime when outside temperature is high, and releases it to the
inside space during night when outdoor temperature is cooler. Thermal mass is also used in storing heat during daytime in cold climates, to release it into the space during night, to
warm it up when outdoor conditions are colder. Materials such as concrete, brick and water have high thermal storage capacity and can be used for such application.
3) Air cavities in wall reduces heat gain factor.
4) Surface colour and finish plays an important role in heat gain and loss from a structure. If external surface of a building is painted with light colour, it will reflect solar radiation.
5) Green roofs also have the potential to improve the thermal performance of a roofing system through shading, insulation, evapotranspiration and thermal mass, thus reducing energy
demand of building for space conditioning.
6) Window should have clear glass with a partition for maximum daylight penetration and tinted glass below the clear glass for glare control.
7) Use of insulated glazing units(IGU) may be considered in appropriate cases. IGU are hermetically sealed, multiple pane assemblies consisting of two or more glazing layers held and
bonded at their perimeter by a space bar typically containing a desiccant material. The glazing used in IGUs may be clear, tinted or coated or reflective.
8) Windows shading devices may be employed which help in keeping out the heat, block uncomfortable direct sun, and soften harsh daylight contrasts. Shading devices are also critical for
visual and thermal comfort and for minimizing mechanical cooling loads.
9) In order to allow outside air to enter the space, window openings should be oriented appropriately to optimize heat and solar heat gain.
10) In order to facilitate cross ventilation, location of window openings should be located opposite to each other on walls parallel to each other.
11) In order to achieve the required air change per hour in a given space, cross ventilation and stack ventilation mode of natural ventilation should be adopted.
12) Natural ventilated buildings should take advantage of the predominant wind originating from east and west directions to maximize cross ventilation. Stack ventilation can be enhanced
by providing openings on the opposite side of the wall, where the inlet opening should be located at the bottom most part of the wall and outlet openings should be on the topmost
part of the opposite wall in order to increase the height difference between the two.
13) Naturally ventilated buildings should have a narrow room width; and it is difficult to naturally ventilate buildings with room depth more than 15m.
14) Solar collectors that harness the solar energy directly into usable heat can be aesthetically integrated with the building envelope or they may be mounted on the roof of building.
15) Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system is the integration of photovoltaic (PV) and the building envelope. The PV modules can be designed and installed to serve the double
purpose of both power generation and that of the building skin replacing conventional building envelope materials.

MATERIALS
Use of different structural and surface finishing materials and with alternatives for helping in sustainable construction should be
considered.
1. —
Pozzolanas like fly ash or ground slag may be used to replace certain percentage of ordinary Portland cement in cement concrete in
accordance with the good practice.
2. Preference may be given to use of RMC (Ready mix concrete) , if the RMC manufacturing plant is nearby as , there are advantages of
RMC over conventional concrete such as reduction noise and dust pollution, apart from better quality control.
3. Light weight blocks help to reduce structural loading of building. These may be foamed blast furnace slag, bloated clay aggregate,
sintered fly ash aggregate, cinder aggregate, etc.
4. Sustainable methodology should be the use of locally available (excavated) and undressed stone to the maximum possible extent
subject to compliance to the environmental rules/regulations relating to its mining, etc.
5. Use of plastics should be limited as far as possible or preference given to plastic products made with recycled content or renewable
resources.
6. Use salvaged metal sections as far as possible
7. Use scrap steel and aluminium for nonstructural applications.
8. Use metals with verified recycled content.
9. Use of stone frame should be preferred in the area where they are locally available as they provide an economical, durable, and
termite proof frame. Likewise precast RCC door/window frames are another durable, economical and termite proof alternative.
10. Stones can also be used as external wall finishes. However, stone fixing has to be carefully considered for high seismic zone and high
rises..
11. Glass shall be selected with high recycled content and shall be so sized as to minimise wastages.

WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
• Sustainable approach to water and waste management requires planning and design of building functions to integrate issues of water and waste management system at the early stages of project evolution,
their management during construction activity and subsequently during occupancy and use of building. The sustainable approach should finally adopt an integrated approach to water supply, water waste
and solid waste management aimed to create built facilities with zero anthropogenic waste design solution.
• An overall water balance chart should be prepared indicating all supply side resources, infusion of recycled water, and the actual consumption for potable and non-potable and other purposes. This chart
should also indicate the extent of recycled water use for different consumption depending on the level of water treatment and reduction in freshwater intake through rainwater harvesting potential of the
site.
• In majority of cases, in view of operation and maintenance considerations, it may be desirable to connect to an existing water supply system. During the planning stage of project development, each
potential source should be carefully evaluated in light of the water quantity and quality requirements.
• For the purpose, the sources may be classified as groundwater, groundwater under the influence of surface water, and surface water. Generally, surface water and groundwater under the influence of
surface water, are regulated together. Source selection should depend upon environmental considerations, reliability, cost (including capital cost and operations and maintenance cost) and water treatment
facilities.
• Large centralized hot water generation on electrical power should be discouraged and alternative clean and energy efficient fuels with efficient hot water generator should be evaluated in the project
having high hot water requirement. All hot water system (equipment and plumbing pipes) shall be insulated with insulation to minimize heat loss.
• Use of low flow fixtures for faucets, water closets, bath showers, hand-held bidet sprays, dish washers, aerators and clothes washers should be considered. One of the important considerations to ensure
performance of low flow products is to design systems with correct pressures. Low flow fittings should be considered mainly for areas with direct water consumption/human usage such as for wash basin
taps, sink taps, and shower head, bath faucet and other faucet taps.
• Situations where water is filled for other requirements such as bath tub fillers, washing machine and for situations where water is filled, stored, used or situation where quantity of water supply may form
the intent for which water is being drawn such asfire-fighting system and swimming pools, need not be provided with water saving features/use.
• Appropriate systems to monitor the quality of treated waste water in accordance with the standard practices should be provided while designing and analyzing the building use.
• Water from only authorized sources should be used for construction. Use of potable water for construction should be avoided unless required for specific purposes. It is suggested to consider use of treated
waste water from appropriate sources with quality of treated waste water parameters confirming the quality required for use in construction activity.
• Water efficient construction technologies should be considered along with other implications while deciding on the technology for respective construction activity.
• The impact of treatment of water forsupply as well as process effluent shall be assessed through environmental impact assessment (EIA). Environmental management plans (EMP) should be developed to
mitigate the adverse environmental impacts.
• Buildings are required to make special provisions, physical spaces and measures to collect, segregate, transfer and dispose of the waste.
• Hospital wastes include human parts, infectious materials, shrapnel (needles, surgical blades, etc) and radioactive materials. Each of the waste types shall be collected and segregated at designated
locations as per the norms applicable, with adequate precautions for safety, disinfection and containment. The circulation route for waste shall be segregated from other hospital circulations. Location for
further processing of waste for final disposal shall be defined at the master planning stage. Also, Special care shall be taken for ventilation exhausts that the same does not mix with air intakes in hospital
ventilation system.
• Toxic chemical wastes shall be disposed of according to the relevant regulations, standards and best industry practices. Under no circumstances, these should be disposed into sewerage..

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