Interpretation #7549
Published August 03, 2015
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2014
- Code
- BUILDING
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Section
- 1613 Earthquake Loads
- Topic
- Seismic requirements
Question
Is it the intent of the code to have the earthquake design protocol in the code?
Answer Published 08/03/2015 at 8:24 AM
It is in the code due to using the International Building
Code (IBC) as the base code. Generally, wind load
calculations will exceed both the seismic and snow loads so
this is not an issue.
The Preface contains words that say the seismic and snow
loads "should not be utilized or enforced", yet the code
says all buildings "shall be designed and constructed to
resist the effects of earthquake motions..." the word shall
denotes mandatory requirements.
Code (IBC) as the base code. Generally, wind load
calculations will exceed both the seismic and snow loads so
this is not an issue.
The Preface contains words that say the seismic and snow
loads "should not be utilized or enforced", yet the code
says all buildings "shall be designed and constructed to
resist the effects of earthquake motions..." the word shall
denotes mandatory requirements.
Commentary
While the Preface is part of the rule adopting the code, a
Declaratory Statement may be needed to make certain design
professionals, plans examiners, and inspectors are not in
violation of the rules regulating their respective
professions. That is a legal question best answered by the
Florida Building Commission.