Title: Historical Evolution of Buildings and Fire Resistance in U.S. Codes

Author(s): Stephen V. Skalko

Publication: Web Session

Volume: ws_2018_0924_Skalko_HistoricalEvolutionofCodes.pdf

Issue:

Appears on pages(s):

Keywords:

DOI:

Date: 11/16/2017

Abstract:
Non-combustibility, fire resistance, and resiliency have always been inherent properties of concrete and masonry construction. Because of these properties, concrete and masonry construction were preferred building materials in many applications, including multi-family housing and high-rise construction. Recent trends, both in the United States and internationally, have put these applications at risk to various types of light frame and mass timber construction. Throughout the world, there has been a push for larger and higher light frame construction, and with that, significant risks related to the vulnerability of these structures to fires. It is expected the upcoming code development cycle for the International Building Code (IBC) will see continued efforts to provide more applications for light frame and mass timber construction, into applications where concrete and masonry construction have been used. With this IBC development cycle starting in early 2018, this session is important and timely to review current code provisions, anticipate threats, review the situation internationally, and provide avenues for the concrete and masonry industry to combat these threats.