Definition of Terms

Prescriptive provisions. These specify by name the materials or construction that has to be provided.

Example: An exit stair shall be provided with an exhaust fan with a capacity of 60 litres per second.

Performance provisions. These specify conditions that are to be provided but don’t specify how.

Example: An exit stair shall not contain more than 1% by volume of contaminated air.

Objectives. These state in broad terms what the code is intended to achieve (e.g., health, safety, accessibility).

Sub-Objectives. These focus on aspects of the overall objective that narrow its scope.

Functional Requirements. These describe in greater detail the conditions to be achieved within the scope of the Sub-Objectives.

Acceptable Solutions. These are the minimum design and construction features that meet the Objectives and Functional Requirements.

Intents. These describe in plain language the reasons underlying the Acceptable Solutions. They will not be part of the code, but will be available as reference material similar to current users’ guides.