The scope of the Standard is intended to cover all masonry structures, including masonry retaining walls, masonry water-retaining structures and masonry in bridge structures.
The clauses in the Standard are written with the expectation that their application is to masonry members in the form of walls, beam and piers whose bed joints are horizontal. Further, they have been written with the expectation that those applying and using the provisions of the Standard will be qualified and experienced in their areas of responsibility. It is expected that, in their hands, careful and experienced application of these provisions will result in safe, serviceable and economical masonry construction.
No specific guidance is given on autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) laid in other than thin-bed mortar, prefabricated masonry or composite action of masonry with other materials. However, the Standard is not intended to prevent the use of these forms of construction.