ABSTRACT
A structural code of practice or standard for masonry brings together essential data on which to base the design of structures in this medium. It contains recommendations for dealing with various aspects of design based on what is generally considered to be good practice at the time of preparing the code. Such a document is not, however, a textbook and does not relieve the designer from the responsibility of acquiring a full understanding of the materials used and of the problems of structural action which are implicit in his or her design. It follows therefore that, in order to use a code of practice satisfactorily, and perhaps even safely, the engineer must make a careful study of its provisions and, as far as possible, their underlying intention. It is not always easy to do this, as codes are written in terms which often conceal the uncertainties of the drafters, and they are seldom accompanied by commentaries which define the basis and limitations of the various clauses.
