PREFACE TO THE NSCP VOLUME 1, SEVENTH EDITION, 2015

Introduction

ASEP recognizes the need for an up-to-date structural code addressing the design and installation of
structural systems

through requirements emphasizing performance. The new National Structural Code of the Philippines
(NSCP Volume I) is

designed to meet these needs through various model codes/regulations, generally from the United
States, to safeguard the

public health and safety nationwide.

This' updated Structural Code 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. Also, this code reflects the latest seismic design practice for earthquake-resistant
structures.

Changes and Developments

In its drive to upgrade and update the NSCP, the ASEP Codes and Standards Committee initially wanted
to adopt the latest

editions of American code counterparts. However, for cases where available local data is limited to
support the upgra e,
then some provisions and procedures of the NSCP 7'" edition were retained.

This NSCP 7th edition is referenced from the following:

a. Uniform Building Code UBC-1997

b. International Building Code IBC-2009

c. American Society of Civil Engineers ASCE/SEI 7-10

d. American Concrete Institute ACI3 1 8- 1 4M

e. American institute for Steel Construction AISC-05 with Supplementary Seismic Provisions

f American Iron and Steel Institute AIS1 S 1 00-2007

g. Reinforced Masonry Engineering Handbook of America

h. Concrete Masonry Handbook, 6th Edition

i. American National Standard Institute ANSI E1A/TIA-222-G-I-2007

j. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards

Significant revisions are summarized as follows:

a. Chapter 1 — General Requirements

The changes made in this chapter are the following:

a. 1 Section 1 02 - Definition of Failure

a.2 Section 1 03 - Classification of Structures

School buildings of more than one story, hospitals, designated evacuation centers, structures

are under the essential facilities category. Section 104 - Design Requirements

Churches, Mosque and other related religious structures are under the special occupancy

category Section 104-Design Requirements.

The provision for deflection of any structural member under the serviceability requirement is

deleted. This requirement for concrete and steel is specified in Chapters 4 and 5 respectively.