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.

Where elements support or are part of an environmental separator, this is to limit the probability of:

• condensation,
• rainwater ingress,
• the ingress of moisture, or
• compromised thermal performance of components intended to provide resistance to heat transfer.

This is to limit the probability of:

• an inadequate control of temperatures of interior spaces, relative humidity, or water accumulation,
• the generation of pollutants from biological growth or from materials that become unstable on wetting, or
• deterioration, which could lead to further compromised integrity of environmental separators.

This is to limit the probability of:

• negative effects on the air quality of indoor spaces,
• the inadequate thermal comfort of persons, and
• contact with moisture.

This is to limit the probability of harm to persons.