Building Codes, Standards and Plan Reading
The code framework and the sheets
Code questions test the IBC structure: occupancy classification, construction type, allowable height and area, fire-resistance ratings, and means of egress - occupant load, number of exits, travel distance, width, and clearances. Accessibility runs through ICC A117.1 and the ADA Standards. Know the permit and plan review process, that the locally adopted edition controls, and that amendments can override the model text. Plan reading covers sheet organization (G, C, A, S, M, E, P), scales, gridlines, keynotes, schedules, sections and details, and the need for architectural, structural, and civil sheets to agree. Specifications follow MasterFormat divisions; Division 01 governs submittals, substitutions, and quality requirements.
Traps
Never scale a dimension that is written on the drawing - written dimensions govern. Watch for drawing-versus-specification conflicts; the order of precedence resolves them, often favoring the specification for quality. Egress questions usually hinge on whether the occupant load factor matches the actual use.
Worked example
Occupant load = floor area ÷ occupant load factor. A 6,000 sq ft business area at 150 gross sq ft per occupant yields 40 occupants; the same area in concentrated business use at 50 gross sq ft per occupant yields 120. Required egress width and the number of exits both change with that number, so one wrong factor flips the answer.