9.20.17.3.(1)

Intent 1:

To limit the probability of an insufficient area of wall between openings and corners, which could lead to an inadequate distribution of stress concentration in areas that typically experience higher levels of lateral stress (e.g. around openings), which could lead to an inability to resist transverse or vertical loads, which could lead to concrete cracking or the displacement of walls.

This is to limit the probability of compromised structural integrity, which could lead to:

• structural failure, or
• where elements support or are part of an environmental separator, the displacement or failure of required environmental separation elements, which could lead to the deterioration of building elements.

This is to limit the probability of harm to persons.