What is the main distinction between a code and a standard in fire safety regulations?

The main distinction between a code and a standard in fire safety regulations is that codes are established as laws, which must be adhered to, while standards often serve as guidelines that may be recommended for best practices but are not legally binding. Codes encompass specific legal requirements that enforce compliance with safety measures, thereby ensuring a minimum level of safety within various environments such as buildings and public spaces.

Standards, on the other hand, typically provide technical specifications and criteria intended to achieve certain outcomes but do not carry the same legal weight as codes. Therefore, compliance with standards may be pursued to enhance safety or efficiency, yet failure to comply does not carry legal penalties like the non-compliance of a code can. Understanding this distinction is crucial for fire safety professionals who must navigate both legal mandates and recommended practices when ensuring safety in their respective fields.