BS 5977-1:1981

Lintels. Method for assessment of load | Status: Confirmed, Current

1 Scope This Part of BS 5977 describes a method for assessing the load carried by lintels in masonry:

1. a) where lintels span up to 4.5 m in single storey buildings and up to 3.6 m in two or three storey buildings in normal domestic use; and
2. b) where no openings are wholly or partly within the load triangle (see 3.2).

Appendix A gives guidance on the use of assessed loads for design or selection of lintels, but does not cover assessment of the overall stability of the structure or the design of adjacent masonry.

NOTE It has been assumed in the drafting of this Part that the assessment of load on a lintel is entrusted to chartered structural or civil engineers or other appropriately qualified persons, for whose guidance it has been prepared.

The responsibility for providing adequate support for lintels and for compatibility between lintels and other parts of the supporting structure rests with the designer responsible for the overall stability of the building. For guidance, see BS 5628‑1.