CSI MasterFormat - Construction Fundamentals Study Guide

A comprehensive review deck of practice questions and answers on the CSI MasterFormat history, numbering systems, specification parts, division mappings, and technical reference standards.

When was the need for a uniform system for organizing construction specifications first identified, and what did CSI initially introduce?

In the early 1960s; the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) introduced a 17-division format known as the CSI FORMAT.

What organization partnered with CSI in 1978 to publish the first edition of MasterFormat?

Construction Specifications Canada (CSC).

What primary purpose does MasterFormat serve in construction documentation?

It classifies detailed construction information into a standard order or sequence by materials and methods for organizing project manuals, detailed cost estimates, and product data filing.

How did the numbering system for CSI MasterFormat change from prior to 2004 to the 2004 edition?

Prior to 2004, it used a 5-digit numbering system grouped into Divisions and Section numbers; the 2004 edition introduced a 6-digit numbering system grouped into Divisions, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4.

What information is categorized under Division 00 in the MasterFormat numbering system?

Bidding Requirements (consisting of Bid Forms, Contract Forms, and Contract Conditions) or Procurement and Contracting Requirements.

Which MasterFormat division outlines the administrative and procedural requirements that apply to all Technical Specification sections?

Division 01 - General Requirements.

Which MasterFormat divisions comprise the Technical Specifications containing written requirements for specific products and systems?

Divisions 02 through 49.

What are the three standard Parts into which each Technical Specification Section is divided?

Part 1: General, Part 2: Products, and Part 3: Execution.

What specific topic titles are contained in Part 1 (General) of a Technical Specification section?

Work Included, References, Quality Assurance, Submittals, Storage, and Environmental Requirements.

What specific topic titles are contained in Part 2 (Products) of a Technical Specification section?

Acceptable Manufacturers, Types of Materials, and Product Standards.

What specific topic titles are contained in Part 3 (Execution) of a Technical Specification section?

Preparation, Installation, Tolerances, Cleaning, and Protection of the finished work.

What is the legal principle called that refers a contractor to external standards that are not physically bound in the project manual?

Incorporated by Reference.

What technical reference document is published by the American Concrete Institute (ACI)?

Formwork for Concrete.

What technical reference document is published by the Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI)?

Manual of Standard Practice for Placing Bar Supports.

What technical standard is published by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)?

Specification for the Design, Fabrication and Erection of Structural Steel for Buildings.

What does the acronym ASHRAE stand for, and what reference standard does it publish?

American Society for Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers; it publishes Method of Testing for Rating the Air Flow Performance of Outlets and Inlets.

What organization publishes the HVAC Duct Construction Standards?

SMACNA (Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association).

What title change occurred for Division 08 in the CSI MasterFormat 2004 edition?

Division 08 changed from "Doors and Windows" to "Openings".

What status was assigned to Division 15 and Divisions 16 through 19 in the 2004 CSI MasterFormat?

Reserved for Future Expansion.

Where did the 1995 MasterFormat sections for Site Clearing (02 230) and Earthwork (02 300) move in the 2004 edition?

Division 31 - Earthwork.

Where did 1995 MasterFormat Section 02 800 (Site Improvements) move in the 2004 edition?

Division 32 - Exterior Improvements.

Where did 1995 MasterFormat Section 02 500 (Utilities) move in the 2004 edition?

Division 33 - Utilities.

Where was the 1995 MasterFormat Section 13700 (Security Access and Surveillance) relocated in the 2004 edition?

Division 28 - Electronic Safety & Security.

To which 2004 MasterFormat division was 1995 Section 15300 (Fire Protection) reassigned?

Division 21 - Fire Suppression.

To which 2004 MasterFormat division was 1995 Section 15400 (Plumbing) reassigned?

Division 22 - Plumbing.

To which 2004 MasterFormat division was 1995 Section 16200 (Electrical Distribution) reassigned?

Division 26 - Electrical.

To which 2004 MasterFormat section was 1995 Section 16720 (Fire Alarm) moved?

Division 28 31 - Fire Detection and Alarm.

Which 2004 MasterFormat division covers Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning?

Division 23.

Which 2004 MasterFormat division covers Communications?

Division 27.

Which MasterFormat division includes finishes like painting and drywall?

Division 09 - Finishes.

Which MasterFormat division covers roofing and insulation for buildings?

Division 07 - Thermal and Moisture Protection.

Which MasterFormat division contains technical specifications for elevators, escalators, and dumbwaiters?

Division 14 - Conveying Systems (or Conveying Equipment).