Codes & Standards Program

Supports the development of new seismic-resilient design provisions for masonry structures as part of the Building Seismic Safety Council’s (BSSC) Provisions Update Committee process. The project conducts background research to establish prescriptive design requirements that enable masonry buildings to achieve functional recovery following major seismic events. Outcomes will include a detailed research report with proposed code language for inclusion in ASCE 7-34. This program includes active participation in advancing masonry’s role within future resilient design standards.

Mason contractors add valuable input on proposed code changes by considering construction sequencing, cost and schedule. Contractors are a valuable partner in the code-writing process, and to ensure that our codes do not become too academic and difficult, it is imperative that contractors are included in TMS meetings. Historically, it has been difficult for contractors to attend TMS meetings because of the associated travel costs and time away from work, but the MMCA in partnership with the Masonry Institute of Michigan has identified several mason contractor members who are willing to attend and participate, and they have already applied for TMS membership and for corresponding member status on several subcommittees. The cost for travel has been burdensome and previously has been paid for by the MMCA and organizations such as the Mason Contractors Association (MCA). This proposal seeks to help fund mason contractor participation as part of the code-writing process, and the main objective is to propose changes to the 2028 TMS 402/602 Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures that will increase masonry market share by making the code and specification simpler.

Provides funding to support mason contractors’ participation in The Masonry Society (TMS) meetings held twice annually. These funds reimburse travel and meeting expenses, enabling contractors to actively contribute to the development and refinement of the TMS 402/602 Building Code. By supporting industry involvement in code advancement, the program helps ensure that standards remain practical, informed and reflective of real-world masonry practices. 

This program supports the hiring of a code consultant to actively participate in code processes within the state of Florida. The consultant shall work with industry to identify areas of the codes that need improvement, clarification or correction and to develop and submit proposed changes and justification in conjunction with the industry. The consultant will review proposed changes by others and advise the principal investigator of potential concerns. Finally, the consultant will network with others to develop support for industry positions. 

This program supports Arc 3 Communications’ plan to assist the Concrete Masonry Checkoff Region 1 with codes and standards services. The core objective is to promote and safeguard the use of masonry in these geographic regions as the preferred exterior cladding and structure for construction, emphasizing its value, safety and low maintenance costs. The program’s success will be measured by the increase in masonry wall share in Region 1 and the quality of adopted and defended policies, prioritizing those with widespread land use applications, high percentage wall area requirements and limited alternative materials. KPIs and benchmarks will be developed for monthly reporting and accountability. 

Provides industry members with a deep understanding of the complex and ever-changing codes and standards across the various levels of government. Additionally, this project seeks to position the Texas Masonry Council and its partners as key players in the codes and standards process. 

Fills a critical role in hiring a code consultant to actively participate in code processes within the state in which they are hired. The consultant will work with industry to identify existing codes that require improvement, clarification or correction, and submit proposed changes and justification as needed.