The Latest Issue of Keynotes - "General Notes vs. Other Contract Documents"  In a previous Keynotes article, general notes were briefly discussed including the observation that general notes frequently include content that is more appropriately, and probably is, indicated elsewhere.  However, design professionals seem to embrace the mantra that mentioning it once is good, but mentioning it twice (or more) is even better.

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The Latest Issue of The Code Corner - "High-Rise Buildings"  Tall structures have been in existence for centuries.  The Great Pyramid of Giza, built in the 26^th Century BC, was as high as 480 feet high.  The Towers of Bologna, constructed in the 12^th Century AD, topped out at about 320 feet for the tallest tower.  Although these were tall structures, they did not perform the same functions that today’s modern high-rise does.  The purpose of the modern high-rise building is to maximize building area in the smallest lot area.  The modern high-rise rose to prominence when two significant developments were achieved:  steel frame construction and the safety elevator.

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From a life safety perspective, the high-rise poses unique situations not found in buildings of lower height.  Regarding egress, most high-rise buildings have relatively small floor areas making the travel distance to an exit stairway well within the limitations of the International Building Code (IBC).  However, long travel down the stairs is slow compared to egress through corridors and exit passageways.  Additionally, the heights associated with high-rise buildings make it more difficult to fight fires at the extreme elevations.

Click here to download this latest article or read the article on The Code Corner Blog and provide your comments or questions.  You can download past articles in the archive on the Articles Page.