Module 1 Lesson 3 - Building Systems Design
Module 1: Lesson 3
Welcome to Module 1 Lesson 3!
National Structural Code of the Philippines
The National Structural Code of the Philippines establishes minimum requirements for structural
systems using prescriptive and performance-based provisions. It is founded on broad-based
principles that make possible the use of new materials and new building designs.
The following are the summary and important discussions of the Code:
Chapter 1 – General Requirements
Section 101.3 Scope
This code shall apply to the construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair,
maintenance and use of buildings, tower and other vertical structures within this
jurisdiction.
Section 103 Classification of Structures
Chapter 2 – Minimum Design Loads
Section 203.3.1 Basic Load Combinations
Section 207 Wind Loads
207A.1.1 Scope
Buildings and other structures, including the Main Wind Force Resisting System
(MWFRS) and all components and cladding (C&C) thereof, shall be designed and
constructed to resist the wind loads determined in accordance with Section 207A through
207F. The provisions of this section define basic wind parameters for use with other
provisions contained in this code.
Section 208 Earthquake Loads
208.1.1 Purpose
The purpose of the succeeding earthquake provisions is primarily to design seismic-
resistant structures to safeguard against major structural damage that may lead to loss of
life and property. These provisions are not intended to assure zero-damage to structures
nor maintain their functionality after a severe earthquake.
Chapter 3 – Earthworks and Foundations
Section 301.1 Scope
This chapter sets forth requirements for excavations, fills, footings and foundations for
any building or structure.
Section 301.2 Quality and Design
The quality and design of materials used structurally in excavations, fills, footings and
foundations shall conform to the requirements specified in Chapter 4, 5, 6 and 7.
Chapter 4 – Structural Concrete
Section 401.2 General
401.2.2. Chapter 4 provides minimum requirements for the design and construction of the
structural concrete elements of any building or other structure under requirements of the
National Building Code of the Philippines of which this chapter of the National Structural Code
of the Philippines, Volume I, forms a part. This chapter also covers the strength evaluation of
existing concrete structures.
Chapter 4 – Structural Concrete
Section 401.2 General
401.2.2. Chapter 4 provides minimum requirements for the design and construction of the
structural concrete elements of any building or other structure under requirements of the
National Building Code of the Philippines of which this chapter of the National Structural Code
of the Philippines, Volume I, forms a part. This chapter also covers the strength evaluation of
existing concrete structures.
Chapter 5 – Structural Steel
Section 501 Scope
This chapter sets forth criteria for the design, fabrication, and erection of structural steel
buildings and other structures, where other structures are defined as those structures
designed, fabricated, and erected in a manner similar to buildings, with builing-like vertical
and lateral load resisting elements. Where conditions are not covered by this Chapter,
designs are permitted to be based on tests, or analysis, subject to the approval of the
authority having jurisdiction. Alternate methods of analysis and design shall be permitted,
provided such alternate methods or criteria are accepted to the authority having
jurisdiction.
Chapter 6 – Wood
Section 601 Scope
The provisions of this chapter shall govern the materials, design, construction, and quality
of wood members and their fasteners.
Chapter 7 – Masonry
Section 701 Scope
The materials, design, construction and quality assurance of masonry shall be in
accordance with this chapter
Section 702 Materials Standard
702.1. Materials used in masonry shall conform to the requirements stated herein. If no
requirements specified in this section for a material, quality shall be based on generally
accepted good practice, subject to the approval of the building official.
