What is the primary purpose of building codes?

The primary purpose of building codes is to ensure life safety. Building codes establish a set of regulations that are designed to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the public. They encompass a range of requirements for construction practices, materials, fire safety, structural integrity, and accessibility. This is essential in ensuring that buildings can withstand various stresses and emergencies, such as fires, earthquakes, and severe weather conditions, ultimately protecting the lives of those who inhabit or use the structures.

While enhancing aesthetic appeal, minimizing construction costs, and promoting energy efficiency are important considerations in the field of interior design and construction, they come secondary to the imperative of safety outlined in the building codes. Codes are often developed in response to past disasters or safety failures, highlighting the need for regulation to prevent loss of life and serious injury in future developments.