Model Building Code (MBO)

The Model Building Code (MBO) is a consolidation of the state building regulations (LBO) applicable in Germany. It is a comprehensive set of building regulations which, in contrast to the state building regulations, serves as an orientation framework for the building regulations legislation of the federal states. However, the MBO is not legally binding.

The MBO is an important guideline for circuit integrity maintenance. Among other things, the Model Building Code contains protection goals to which all residents and users of a building are entitled. These are primarily: protection against fire and smoke, rescue of people and animals and effective extinguishing work.

Key sections of the MBO relating to circuit integrity maintenance on cable systems

The following paragraphs in particular are essential in connection with the circuit integrity maintenance of cable systems:

According to Section 3 of the Model Building Code (MBO), "Installations shall be arranged, erected, modified and maintained in such a way that public safety and order, in particular life, health and the natural foundations of life, are not endangered; the basic requirements for construction works in accordance with Annex I of Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 shall be taken into account."

According to MBO § 14, the first protection objective is defined as follows: "Building structures must be arranged, erected, modified and maintained in such a way that the development of a fire and the spread of fire and smoke (spread of fire) is prevented." This so-called preventive fire protection is achieved, among other things, by forming fire compartments. Details on fire safety, fire compartments and suspended fire resistance ceilings can be found here.

Finally, § 40 Para. 1 MBO: According to this, cables may only be routed through room-enclosing components for which fire resistance is prescribed if there is no risk of fire spreading for a sufficiently long time or if precautions have been taken against this. In the case of electrical wiring systems installed in stairwells and corridors, their safe use in the event of fire must be guaranteed for the prescribed period.

These are the six parts of the MBO

Part One - General Provisions

Part Two - The Property and its Layout

Part Three - Structures

Section One - Design
Section Two - General requirements for the construction work
Section Three - Construction products and types of construction
Section Four - Fire behavior of building materials and components; walls, ceilings, roofs
Fifth section - Escape routes, openings, defenses
Section Six - Technical building services
Section Seven - Usage-related requirements

Part Four - Those involved in construction

Part Five - Building supervisory authorities, procedures
Section One - Building supervisory authorities
Section Two - Obligation to obtain approval, exemption from approval
Section Three - Approval procedure
Section Four - Construction supervision measures
Section Five - Construction supervision
Section Six - Building encumbrances

Part Six - Administrative Offenses, Legal Provisions, Transitional and Final Provisions