Question

Which IS code is used for general construction of steel?

• A. IS 456
• B. IS 256
• C. IS 800
• D. IS 100

Hint:

Always remember: IS 456 → Concrete, IS 800 → Steel, IS 875 → Loads.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Identify the purpose of different IS codes.
Different Indian Standard (IS) codes are published for different materials and design purposes.
Step 2: Analyze the given options.
(A) IS 456: This code is used for plain and reinforced concrete structures, not steel.
(B) IS 256: This code is related to timber construction.
(C) IS 800: Correct — IS 800 is the code of practice for general construction in steel.
(D) IS 100: Not related to structural steel design.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, the IS code used for general construction of steel is IS 800.

Answer 2

Another way to confirm this is to recall each code by pairing it with the material or structure category it governs, since Indian Standard codes are organized by subject area, and cross-check by recalling the codes that sit near it in the same family.

1. IS 456: This code sits within the family of codes governing cement concrete construction, and is specifically the code of practice for plain and reinforced concrete — its number is commonly paired with concrete mix design and reinforced-concrete detailing, not steelwork.
2. IS 256: Codes in this numeric neighborhood relate to material treatment and finishing practices, and this number is not associated with the primary structural design code for either concrete or steel members.
3. IS 800: This number is specifically remembered in structural engineering practice as the "general steel code" — the umbrella code of practice covering the general design and construction of steel structural members, connections, and structures, distinct from the concrete or timber code families.
4. IS 100: This number is far too low to belong to the family of major structural material design codes; it is not associated with structural steel design practice.

Cross-checking each number against its known code family confirms only one of them belongs to the steel-structures design family.

Therefore, the correct answer is IS 800.