What is a primary purpose of building codes related to fire safety?

Building codes related to fire safety are primarily established to minimize fire risks. These codes set specific standards for construction materials, design, and safety measures that aim to prevent the ignition and spread of fires within buildings. By adhering to these codes, builders and developers create safer environments that protect occupants and property from the potentially devastating effects of fire.

While improving fire department access, ensuring structural integrity, and enhancing aesthetic design are important considerations in the overall building process, the central focus of fire safety codes is to implement measures that reduce the likelihood of fire occurrence and facilitate faster, more effective responses when fires do happen. This proactive approach helps save lives and property, making the minimization of fire risks the most pertinent purpose of these regulations.