This is the second edition of CSA S408, Guidelines for the development of limit states design standards. It supersedes the first edition, published in 1981 under the title Guidelines for the Development of Limit States Design

Scope

1.1 These Guidelines provide recommendations for the development of codes and standards used for the design and evaluation of civil engineering structures such as buildings, industrial structures, bridges, earthand water-retaining structures, towers, chimneys, and poles. These recommendations are intended to ensure the adequate and consistent provision of safety and serviceability, regardless of the type of material, construction, or use of the structure.

1.2 In these Guidelines, "should" is used to express a recommendation or that which is advised but not required; "may" is used to express an option or that which is permissible within the limits of the Guidelines; and "can" is used to express possibility or capability.