50 Divisions of Construction (CSI MasterFormat)
The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) developed the MasterFormat, which organizes construction information into 50 Divisions. These divisions standardize the specifications used in building construction, ensuring consistency and clarity among professionals.
Divisions of Construction – General Requirements (Divisions 00-01)
This divisions set the foundation for construction projects by covering contracts, regulations, and administrative requirements. It ensures compliance with laws, safety protocols, and environmental standards. Proper use helps prevent legal disputes, manage documentation, and streamline project execution, leading to efficient and organized construction management.
00 – Procurement and Contracting Requirements
Covers bidding procedures, contract agreements, bonds, insurance, and project administration.
01 – General Requirements
Includes project management, quality control, temporary facilities, environmental protection, and submittals.
Divisions of Construction – Facility Construction (Divisions 02-19)
02 – Existing Conditions
Covers demolition, site decontamination, remediation, and structure relocation.
This division includes site preparation, excavation, demolition, and remediation. It ensures that the construction site is stable, free of hazardous materials, and properly graded. Using this division helps maintain safety, minimize environmental impact, and prepare the land for successful structural development.
03 – Concrete
Specifications for cast-in-place concrete, precast concrete, reinforcement, and curing methods.
Concrete is essential for structural integrity in construction. This division includes specifications for cast-in-place concrete, precast elements, and reinforcement. Using the correct concrete mix and curing methods ensures strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors, preventing cracks and structural failures over time.
04 – Masonry
Includes materials such as brick, concrete blocks, stone, and mortar.
Masonry work involves materials like bricks, concrete blocks, and stone. This division provides guidelines for material selection, installation techniques, and structural reinforcement. Proper use ensures load-bearing strength, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal, making buildings more durable and energy-efficient.
05 – Metals
Covers structural steel framing, metal joists, decking, and decorative metal elements.
Structural steel, aluminum, and other metals are critical for framing, bridges, and high-rise buildings. This division ensures the correct fabrication, welding, and corrosion protection methods are followed. Proper metalwork enhances structural stability and ensures long-lasting performance under various environmental conditions.
06 – Wood, Plastics, and Composites
Includes rough and finish carpentry, millwork, and composite materials.
This division covers framing, millwork, and engineered wood products. It ensures proper selection of sustainable and durable materials. Using high-quality wood and composite materials prevents warping, increases load-bearing capacity, and enhances the aesthetic quality of buildings.
07 – Thermal and Moisture Protection
Roofing, waterproofing, insulation, vapor barriers, and fireproofing.
Protecting buildings from moisture, heat, and cold is crucial for longevity. This division includes roofing, waterproofing, insulation, and vapor barriers. Using the right materials prevents leaks, mold growth, and energy loss, making structures more durable and energy-efficient.
08 – Openings
Covers doors, windows, skylights, glazing, and hardware.
Doors, windows, skylights, and hardware fall under this division. Proper specification and installation improve security, natural lighting, and ventilation. High-quality materials enhance energy efficiency, safety, and aesthetics while ensuring compliance with fire and accessibility codes.
09 – Finishes
Includes flooring, ceilings, wall finishes, coatings, and acoustic treatments.
Interior and exterior finishes, including flooring, ceilings, painting, and coatings, define a building’s appearance and durability. Selecting the right finishes improves fire resistance, indoor air quality, and aesthetics while ensuring compliance with building codes.
10 – Specialties
Covers signage, partitions, lockers, bathroom accessories, and fire extinguishers.
This division includes specialty construction items like partitions, signage, lockers, and restroom accessories. These elements improve functionality, safety, and accessibility in commercial and public spaces. Proper planning ensures efficiency in building usage and compliance with regulatory requirements.
11 – Equipment
Includes appliances, vaults, food service equipment, and medical equipment.
Construction and operational equipment, including medical, food service, and gym equipment, are covered in this division. Proper selection ensures efficiency, compliance with industry regulations, and long-term operational success in commercial and institutional buildings.
12 – Furnishings
Specifications for casework, window treatments, furniture, and fixed seating.
This division includes cabinetry, window treatments, and furniture. It enhances a building’s interior functionality and aesthetics. Using high-quality, durable materials ensures longevity and comfort while complementing the overall design.
13 – Special Construction
Covers pools, greenhouses, pre-engineered structures, and special purpose rooms.
This division covers unique structures like clean rooms, greenhouses, and swimming pools. Proper adherence ensures these facilities meet specific industry standards, ensuring safety, efficiency, and longevity.
14 – Conveying Equipment
Elevators, escalators, moving walks, and material handling systems.
Elevators, escalators, and automated conveyor systems fall under this division. Their correct specification and installation improve accessibility, safety, and efficiency in multi-story buildings and industrial sites.
15 – Plumbing + HVAC
16 – Electrical + Lighting
17 – Reserved for Future Expansion
18 – Reserved for Future Expansion
19 – Reserved for Future Expansion
Divisions of Construction – Facility Services (Divisions 20-29)
20 – Mechanical Support
21 – Fire Suppression
Covers sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and suppression systems.
Fire protection systems, including sprinklers, alarms, and extinguishers, fall under this division. Proper implementation ensures compliance with fire codes and enhances building safety by preventing catastrophic fire damage.
22 – Plumbing
Includes piping, fixtures, pumps, and water treatment.
Plumbing systems, including piping, fixtures, and water supply, are critical for building functionality. Proper installation prevents leaks, improves sanitation, and ensures water efficiency.
23 – Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Ductwork, air distribution, chillers, boilers, and controls.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are essential for climate control and air quality. Proper design ensures energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and compliance with environmental regulations.
24 – Reserved for Future Expansion
25 – Integrated Automation
Covers building management systems, smart controls, and energy monitoring.
Smart building systems, including security, energy management, and environmental controls, enhance efficiency and safety. Proper integration ensures seamless operation and cost savings.
26 – Electrical
Includes power distribution, lighting, grounding, and generators.
Power distribution, lighting, and backup systems ensure a building’s electrical reliability. Proper wiring and grounding prevent electrical hazards and ensure energy efficiency.
27 – Communications
Telecommunications, data systems, security, and audiovisual systems.
Networking, telecommunications, and audiovisual systems enhance modern building connectivity. Proper planning ensures seamless communication and security system integration.
28 – Electronic Safety and Security
Covers fire alarm, access control, video surveillance, and intrusion detection.
Security systems, including access control, video surveillance, and alarms, protect people and property. Implementing the right systems enhances building safety and regulatory compliance.
29 – Reserved for Future Expansion
Divisions of Construction – Site and Infrastructure (Divisions 30-39)
30 – Reserved for Future Expansion
31 – Earthwork
Covers excavation, grading, soil stabilization, and slope protection.
Excavation, grading, and soil stabilization ensure a solid foundation for construction. Proper site preparation prevents structural issues like settling and erosion.
32 – Exterior Improvements
Landscaping, fencing, paving, and site furnishings.
Landscaping, paving, and fencing enhance the exterior functionality and aesthetics of a property. Using durable materials ensures longevity and environmental sustainability.
33 – Utilities
Includes water supply, sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and electrical distribution.
Water, sewer, gas, and electrical distribution systems ensure proper infrastructure. Correct installation prevents service disruptions and ensures regulatory compliance.
34 – Transportation
Roadways, railways, bridges, traffic signals, and airport runways.
Roadways, bridges, tunnels, and traffic systems are critical for transportation networks. Proper engineering ensures durability, safety, and efficient traffic flow.
35 – Waterway and Marine Construction
Covers dams, docks, seawalls, and underwater construction.
Docks, seawalls, and underwater structures require specialized materials and engineering. Proper execution ensures long-term stability in harsh aquatic environments.
36 – Reserved for Future Expansion
37 – Reserved for Future Expansion
38 – Reserved for Future Expansion
39 – Reserved for Future Expansion
Divisions of Construction – Process Equipment (Divisions 40-49)
40 – Process Integration
Covers process piping and equipment integration.
Process piping, automation, and system controls support industrial and manufacturing operations. Proper design ensures efficiency and compliance with industry regulations.
41 – Material Processing and Handling Equipment
Conveyor systems, storage tanks, and crushers.
Equipment like conveyors, crushers, and storage tanks are essential for industrial production. Proper selection improves efficiency and worker safety.
42 – Process Heating, Cooling, and Drying Equipment
Boilers, heat exchangers, and drying equipment.
These systems regulate temperature-sensitive industrial processes. Proper design enhances productivity and energy efficiency.
43 – Process Gas and Liquid Handling, Purification, and Storage Equipment
Covers pumps, compressors, and pressure vessels.
This division covers pumps, compressors, and pressure vessels. Proper implementation ensures safe and efficient fluid management.
44 – Pollution Control Equipment
Includes air and water pollution control devices.
Air and water pollution control systems ensure environmental compliance and public health protection. Using effective filtration and treatment methods reduces emissions and waste.
45 – Industry-Specific Manufacturing Equipment
Covers specialized equipment for industries like automotive or pharmaceuticals.
Specialized equipment for industries like automotive and pharmaceuticals enhances production capabilities and efficiency.
46 – Water and Wastewater Equipment
Includes filtration, treatment, and pumping systems.
Filtration, treatment, and pumping systems ensure clean water supply and waste management. Proper maintenance prevents contamination and service disruptions.
47 – Reserved for Future Expansion
48 – Electrical Power Generation
Covers generators, turbines, and renewable energy systems.
Power plants, turbines, and renewable energy systems provide sustainable power solutions. Proper design ensures energy reliability and efficiency.
49 – Reserved for Future Expansion
This classification system is widely used in construction specifications, contracts, and project documentation. Visit CSI Website to learn more about the 50 Divisions of Construction and MasterFormat standars.
