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
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.





















