Barbados National Standards Institution

What is the Barbados National Building Code?

The Barbados National Building Code is a standard developed to guide the development of construction and use of building materials in Barbados. It was first published in 1992, but in 1993, an amended version was subsequently published following reviews and comments by government authorities, professional associations, individual consultants, businesses and others.

The Barbados National Building Code details the technical standards and requirements for the design and construction of buildings in respect of issues concerning structural sufficiency and durability, fire safety, health and amenity, which are regarded as essential minimum provisions in the public interest.

Standards for the manufacture, use and testing of building materials, components and systems are also included to support the administration of the Code and promote the economic development of the industry. The Code takes into account the particular climatic and geological conditions of Barbados, especially the nature of the Caribbean environment and the region’s susceptibility to hurricanes and earthquakes.

It provides essential information which details the technical requirements and standards in six parts as follows:

1. Building design and management;
2. Structural requirements;
3. Fire safety;
4. Health and amenity
5. Services and equipment; and
6. Minor structures and components.

The Barbados National Building Code can be obtained from the BNSI, “Flodden”, Culloden Road, St. Michael between the hours of 8: 30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday.