This knowledge area ensures that structural designs adhere to the legal, technical, and safety requirements defined by local and international building codes. Structural engineers must understand how to interpret and apply standards such as the Eurocodes, ACI, BS, IBC, and ASCE to ensure that their designs are safe, functional, and verifiable. These codes provide essential guidance for defining loads, selecting design methods, checking structural performance under limit states, and addressing issues such as seismic resistance, wind actions, fire protection, and durability.

Compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a professional responsibility. It affects material selection, detailing, analysis methods, and the documentation submitted for review and approval. This area also emphasizes the need for accuracy, traceability, and quality control in producing calculation reports, IFC drawings, and technical specifications. A thorough grasp of design standards is crucial for project approval, stakeholder confidence, and overall structural safety throughout the lifecycle of the building or infrastructure.