Classification, an introduction
BSRIA is a non-profit distributing, member-based association, providing specialist services in construction and building services.
In February 2017, BSRIA published Classification - An introduction (BG 68 / 2017) by John Sands.
The 54-page guide offers an introduction to classification, that is, ‘what things are called, and how those names are arranged and structured’, or ‘the act or process of dividing things into groups according to their type.’
In the construction industry, classification is used in:
- Specifications.
- Production information.
- Libraries.
- Drawings.
- Schedules of rates / quantities.
- Information management systems.
- Operation and maintenance information.
The guide considers classification with particular reference to building services. It explains what classification is, why it is needed, how it is used, and how to recognise particular classification systems.
It outlines the classification systems in use in the construction industry and relates them to building information modelling (BIM):
The guide suggests that ‘Having a vast amount of data about a project or asset can be a very powerful resource. However, it is only as useful as its ability to be retrieved when needed and this is the role of classification.’
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- BSRIA articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Building services.
- BIM
- BIM classification.
- CI/SfB.
- Classification systems.
- Common arrangement of work sections.
- Construction Project Information Committee.
- NRM2.
- OmniClass.
- Uniclass advisory board created.
- Uniclass 2.
- Uniclass 1.4 legacy release.
- Uniclass2 development release classification (2014).
- Uniclass 2015.
- Use class.
Featured articles and news
The 5 elements of seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke.
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.