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Architect-Engineer Information Center

Construction Specifications

All construction specifications must be developed in the 50 Division Construction Specification Institution (CSI) MasterFormat System using the MasterSpec® System. MasterSpec® is a product of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is produced and published for the AIA by ARCOM. In addition, the documents below are specification sections that have been tailored to meet specific requirements of the Institution and should be used when required by a particular design.

A title page for the specification book with the required signature block for the Associate Director of OPDC and containing a statement of conformance with the Smithsonian Directive (SD) 410.

Fire Protection and Life Safety

The following guide specifications have been approved by OSHEM for use on Smithsonian projects and their use, where appropriate is mandatory. In addition, the Smithsonian Design Standards is provided as a resource for designers to supplement the minimum standards provide by building and fire codes and thus provide an enhanced level of fire protection and life safety for Smithsonian facilities, collections, occupants, and operations.


Technical Security
Documents are available from your COTR/OPDC Design Manager to assist in understanding and implementing physical and technical security standards in and around Smithsonian Facilities.

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