What is National Building Code ’05?

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: The National Building Code (NBC) 2005 is a response to the series of natural disasters that have had a huge impact on the built environment. These include the Chamoli, Jabalpur, Latur and Bhuj earthquakes and the supercyclones of Kandla and Orissa. As the base document for the building construction industry, it seeks to bring codes in line with market requirements. FE takes a Closer Look at NBC 2005.

What is the National Building Code 2005?

It is the third revision compiled under the aegis of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It provides guidelines for regulating building construction activities across the country. It has the basic codes for construction materials, services, systems andprocesses. The NBC lays down the minimum provisions buildings need in order to ensure public safety with regard to structural sufficiency, fire hazard and health aspects. It contains administrative provisions, development control rules and general building requirements.

Who will use the NBC?

It serves as a Model Code for adoption by anybody involved in construction in the public or private domain. This includes public works departments, other government construction departments, local bodies and construction agencies.

Is the NBC mandatory ?

It is a recommendatory document. It can be adopted and adapted by development authorities to formulate building bye-laws. NBC can become mandatory if notified.

When was the NBC first published?

In 1970, at the instance of the Planning Commission. It was revised in 1983. Since the publication of the 1983 version , three major amendments were issued, two in 1987 and a third in 1997.

Does the Planning Commission draft the NBC?

No. The BIS coordinates the drafting of the NBC. It involves committees with members including architects, designers, urban planners, engineers, structural engineers, fire professionals, and plumbing, water and sanitation experts.

Professionals from allied fields too are involved. NBC 2005 was drafted by 18 expert panels. Over 20,000 professionals were involved directly or indirectly, in either drafting the rules or vetting them.

Why does the code have to be redrafted?

Since the code was last drafted, the construction industry has made further technological strides. Also, substantial expertise has been gained in building planning, designing and construction. There have also been many developments in the techno-legal and techno-financial regime, apart from the experience gained in dealing with natural calamities.

Is the NBC applicable only to urban areas?