Chapter: 1

Introduction:
Background
Several countries have invented their own design specification for the construction of various
types of structures. Such specifications are used in engineering to formulate a design for various
structural members such as beam, column, slab and footing. The primary purpose of these codes
is to ensure structural stability by specifying minimum and maximum design requirements.
Moreover, they also ensure a uniformity in procedures adopted by the various structural
engineers in the country. Assessment of these codes will help them to customize the structural
design in most effective way.
A standard is a document established by consensus and approved by a recognized body that
provides, for common and repeated use, rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or their
results, aimed at the achievement of the optimum degree of order in a given context. Analysis
and design of RCC framed building can be done by various international standards such as
Indian, American, European, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, etc. the most commonly known and
most developed are three consisting of: Indian code (IS456:2000), European code (Eurocode 2
EN 1992-1-1) and British Standard (BS 8110). In India most of the structural analysis and design
work is done by Indian Standard Codes, but Indian codes are somehow restricted and not
confirming to complete dynamic analysis of structures. The other main factor for comparison is
economy in design. It is very essential to check whether foreign code proves economical or not.
Currently in industry, the requirement for code study and comparison for analysis as well as
design is in demand.
These three different design codes provide different outputs for the same input (same building
with same parameters and conditions). They are different in Load Combinations and calculations,
Sustainability, different strength of materials, structural analysis methods, Design Philosophy
and the economic factors.
In this study we will be focusing on the economic differences. Specifically, on how we can lower
the cost of living in Hargeisa to accommodate the low-income Somali community in the area.
Mostly the construction industry in Hargeisa is not consistent with the design they adopt as each
company uses the design code it pleases because of lack or no support and regulations from the
government. But as the country keeps developing, it becomes necessary for them to follow a
certain design code and be consistent with their construction.
 Scope of study
The core objective of this study is to interpret the design comparison between three design codes,
Indian code (IS456:2000), European code (Eurocode 2 EN 1992-1-1) and British Standard (BS
8110). giving consideration to the development of low-cost building materials and enhancing
overall affordability.

Problem Statement:
With Somaliland being a third world country, most of its citizens face poverty and low-income
status according to the UN Organizations, this urges the local construction companies to enhance
and manage building affordability.
This study aims to address these claims and develop low cost building material, considering and
comparing the three design codes

Objectives of study:
1. To study guidelines of analysis and design building as per Indian Standards (IS), Euro
code (EC2) and British Standard (BS8110).
2. To study how design codes affect when developing low-cost building materials.
3. To compare the analysis and design results of different design Codes.
4. To assess and enhance the affordability of buildings in Hargeisa, Somaliland with
assuring good quality materials.

Significance of Study:
Data and findings produced in this study will be used to show the comparison between the three
different design codes and provide insight into the issue of lowering cost of buildings in Hargeisa,
Somaliland.
In addition, it is hoped that this project will be the beginning of an ongoing body of research into
the issue of enhancing affordability in the construction sectors in Hargeisa, Somaliland.