The Evolution of Building Codes and Standards in Structural Engineering
The journey of structural engineering is unimaginable without the evolution of the building codes and standards that have profoundly influenced today’s built environment. These codes and standards are put in place to ensure a structure is safe, durable, and sustainable, thereby saving lives and property. The Rise of Modern Codes The Industrial Revolution involved rapid urbanization that demanded more complete building regulations and rapid technological development. In the 19th century, severe fires and crippling failures of structures in fast-growing cities impressed the requirement for standard building practices. During this time, formal building codes began to appear in Europe and North America. After the Great Fire of London in 1666, England’s first major building code was instituted — the London Building Act of 1667. It put minimum standards for materials and thickness of walls, which set the trend for later codes. In the 20th century, building codes and standards progresse...