Uniform Building By-Laws 1984 [G.N. 5178/84] [As At 10th January 2024]

Uniform Building By-Laws 1984 made under section 133 of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974

The Malaysian government established the Universal Building By-Laws (UBBL) in 1984 as a set of rules to make sure that all structures in the nation are secure, healthy, and up to code. The by-laws were first presented in 1984, and since then, they have undergone a number of revisions and modifications to reflect the times and altering building practises.

Building planning and design, building materials, structural safety, fire safety, electrical installations, plumbing and drainage systems, and building maintenance are just a few of the themes that are covered in the UBBL. The following are some of the by-laws' major clauses:

- Building planning and design: According to the bylaws, all buildings must be planned in line with the fundamentals of good building practise and adhere to a set of minimal ventilation, lighting, and space requirements. They also lay out specifications for the construction of elevators, escalators, and other vertical transit devices.

- Building materials: The by-laws outline the categories of materials that can be used in building construction and establish standards for their strength and quality. They also control the use of products proven to be harmful to human health, including asbestos.

-Structural safety: The bylaws specify in great detail the conditions under which buildings must be built in order to guarantee that they are sound structurally and can withstand the demands of everyday use and environmental elements. Additionally, they mandate that structures be built to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes and wind.

- Fire safety: The by-laws specify standards for the installation of fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and fire escape routes, among other measures for the prevention and control of fires in structures. They also control how flammable materials are used and how dangerous materials are kept in buildings.

- Electrical installations: The by-laws specify specifications for the layout and installation of electrical systems in structures, as well as usage guidelines for electrical tools and appliances. They also address concerns pertaining to the upkeep and safety of electrical equipment.

- Plumbing and drainage systems: The by-laws set forth standards for the use of specific materials, as well as the sizing and positioning of pipes and fixtures, when designing and installing plumbing and drainage systems in structures. Additionally, they lay out guidelines for the upkeep and repair of these systems.

- Building maintenance: In accordance with the bylaws, all buildings must be kept in a safe, sanitary, and functional condition. They lay forth requirements for inspections and repairs as well as the duties of building owners and managers with relation to maintenance.

The Uniform Building By-Laws of 1984 are a significant body of rules that contribute to ensuring the security and wellbeing of Malaysians who reside in and work in buildings. It offers a thorough framework for building development and upkeep and aids in ensuring that all structures adhere to a set of minimal safety and quality requirements.