BRITISH STANDARD BS 6750:1986

Specification for

Modular coordination
in building
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UDC 721.013 + 69.032

 BS 6750:1986

Committees responsible for this

British Standard

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Basic Data and
Performance Criteria for Civil Engineering and Building Structures Standards
Committee (BDB/-) to Technical Committee BDB/4, upon which the following
bodies were represented:

Association of County Councils

Association of Metropolitan Authorities
Brick Development Association
British Standards Society
Building Employers Confederation
Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
Concrete Society
Department of Education and Science
Department of the Environment (Building Research Establishment)
Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency)
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Incorporated Association of Architects and Surveyors

Institute of Building Control Officers
Institute of Clerks of Works of Great Britain Inc.
Institution of Civil Engineers
Institution of Public Health Engineers
Institution of Structural Engineers
National Council of Building Materials Producers
Royal Institute of British Architects
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Basic Data
and Performance Criteria for
Civil Engineering and
Building Structures
Standards Committee, was
published under the
authority of the Board of BSI
and comes into effect on Amendments issued since publication
29 August 1986

© BSI 07-1999 Amd. No. Date of issue Comments

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference BDB/4
Draft for comment 84/13331 DC

ISBN 0 580 15106 9

 BS 6750:1986

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword iii
0 Introduction 1
1 Scope 1
2 Definitions 1
3 Basic module 2
4 Multimodules 2
5 Submodular increments 2
6 Modular sizes for coordinating dimensions of spaces 2
7 Modular reference system 2
8 Modular grids 3
9 Key reference planes 3
10 Modular floor plane 3
11 Storey heights and room heights 5
Appendix A Guidance 7
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Index 20
Figure 1 — Basic module spacegrid 4
Figure 2 — Examples of modular grids for specific purposes
directly related to the basic module grid 4
Figure 3 — Positions for the modular floor plane 4
Figure 4 — Position for the modular floor plane 5
Figure 5 — Positions of the structure in relation to the
modular storey height and floor plane 6
Figure 6 — Face and axial disciplines 7
Figure 7 — Plans of external wall with 1 M columns 8
Figure 8 — Plans of external wall with 2 M columns 9
Figure 9 — Plan of external wall with 3 M columns 9
Figure 10 — Plans of external walls with non-modular
columns: effect on other components 10
Figure 11 — Examples of finished faces of partitions defined
by modular planes 10
Figure 12 — Example of finished faces of partition not
coinciding with modular planes 11
Figure 13 — Assembly of modular fitment in non-modular space 11
Figure 14 — Non-modular zone 12
Figure 15 — Key reference planes for floors, ceilings and roofs 12
Figure 16 — Key dimensions at changes of level 12
Figure 17 — Positions for the modular floor plane 12
Figure 18 — Positions of the structure in relation to the
modular storey height and floor plane 13
Figure 19 — Use of 75 mm brickwork courses with 100 mm
reference system 14
Figure 20 — Modular size = work size + joint 15
Figure 21 — Plan of a building showing a use of multimodules
to relate structure and cladding 16
Figure 22 — Combination of 3 M and 4 M components to fill
every modular space from 6 M upwards 17
Figure 23 — Relationship of joint reference planes to
modular reference planes 17

© BSI 07-1999 i
 BS 6750:1986

Page
Figure 24 — Relationship between the modular size,
and the work size and joint gap width (showing that the
joint gap width is twice the joint margin) 18
Figure 25 — Open and closed arrows 18
Figure 26 — Running dimensions 18
Figure 27 — Reference lines and centre lines 18
Table 1 — Preferred modular sizes based upon the
multimodules for horizontal and vertical dimensions 2
Table 2 — Modular sizes for horizontal coordinating dimensions of spaces 3
Table 3 — Modular sizes for vertical coordinating dimensions of spaces 3
Table 4 — Presentation of sizes in manufacturers’ technical literature 19
Table 5 — Presentation of sizes in building designers’ specifications 19
Publications referred to Inside back cover
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ii © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

Foreword

BS 6750 was prepared under the direction of the Basic Data and Performance
Criteria for Civil Engineering and Building Structures Standards Committee.
International and British Standards have been published to cover the
specification of sizes for buildings, their components and materials, the system of
tolerances for building and the requirements for joints and jointing in the design,
manufacture and assembly of buildings.
This British Standard is a combination of, and is technically equivalent to,
ISO 1006, ISO 1040, ISO 2848, ISO 6511, ISO 6512, ISO 6513, and ISO 6514, but
incorporates minor differences in presentation. The “Specification” clauses of
these ISO standards have been incorporated into the clauses of this standard. The
“Application” clauses of these ISO standards have been incorporated into the
appendix.
BS 6750 also takes into account ISO 1790, ISO 1791, ISO 1803, ISO 2444,
ISO 2445, ISO 2776, ISO 2777, ISO 3443-1 and ISO 3443-2.
BS 4011, BS 4330, DD 51, PD 6432 and PD 6444 are withdrawn.
Further information on the subject can be found in CIB Report No. 68 — 1984,
The Principles of Modular Coordination in Building, and
CIB Report No. 36 — 1980, Some Notes on Geometry of Joints for Catalogue
Building1).
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A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i to iv,
pages 1 to 20, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on
the inside front cover.

1) Obtainable
from the International Council for Building Research Studies and Documentation,
PO Box 20704, 3001 JA, Rotterdam, Netherlands.

© BSI 07-1999 iii

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iv
blank

0 Introduction
0.1 The principle of modular coordination
The principal purpose of modular coordination is to
simplify and make more economical the design and
construction of buildings, by standardization of
sizes, in such a way that components fit with each
other when assembled on site as parts of a building.
Modular coordination is based on a standard
reference system which uses the international basic
module of 100 mm for the coordinated control of
spaces in buildings, as well as for the sizing and
locating of building components and elements.
Modular coordination is a well established practical
discipline which has been thoroughly proven over
many years in many different constructions and
circumstances, in most countries.
0.2 The need for modular coordination
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0.2.1 General benefits. The principal effect of
modular coordination is to facilitate cooperation
between building designers, manufacturers,
distributors and authorities; it provides a flexible
type of standardization which encourages the use of
building components having a restricted number of
standard sizes for the construction of different types
of buildings.
Building components produced in standard ranges
of sizes can be interchanged, whatever their form,
material or method of manufacture.
Site operations are simplified due to the
rationalized sizing, setting out, positioning and
assembly of building components.
0.2.2 Practical benefits in the design office. BS 6750
specifies a framework that permits diversity of
design through the use of components having
standardized modular sizes.
The standard provides for interchangeability of
components, which allows a flexible response to user
requirements and individual needs.
The standard also provides a basis for the
systematic consideration of joint design to improve
fit and performance.
Modular coordination is of particular significance in
the light of the increased use of computers in design,
costing and construction, where three dimensional
coordinates are invariably needed in computer
modelling to describe the location and size of spaces,
elements and components and as a basis for the
assessment, calculation and specification of their
performance and costs.
© BSI 07-1999
BS 6750:1986
0.2.3 Practical benefits in the manufacture of
components. This standard specifies a way of sizing
components to fit standard spaces in any building,
and gives guidance on the selection of ranges of sizes
that will reduce variety yet increase potential
applications by virtue of interchangeability.
Adoption of a reduced range of selected standard
sizes simplifies ordering of material, manufacturing
processes, stock holding, invoicing, distribution and
packing.
0.2.4 Practical benefits on the building site.
Adoption of the procedures specified in this
standard will reduce waste on site arising from
cutting to fit, accelerate the assembly process by
ease of fit, and facilitate the coordination of the
different trades and suppliers. Adoption will also
ensure that equipment, services, storage units and
fitted furniture can be incorporated in the building
in a coordinated manner.
0.2.5 Summary. Modular coordination makes use of:
a) the basic module (i.e. 100 mm);
b) multimodules (see clauses 2 and 3);
c) submodular increments (see clauses 2 and 5);
d) a modular grid reference system to define
zones and coordinating spaces for building
elements and for the components which form
them;
e) rules for locating building elements;
f) rules for selecting preferred sizes for building
components and coordinating sizes for buildings;
g) rules for sizing building components; including
their work sizes.
1 Scope
This British Standard specifies requirements for:
a) modular reference systems to be used in the
design of buildings;
b) the position of key reference planes;
c) the sizing of buildings and their components
and materials which are designed in compliance
with the principles of modular coordination.
NOTE 1 The standard’s application to the sizes of buildings and
to their components and materials in design, manufacture and
construction and drawing conventions relating to modular
coordination are described in Appendix A.
NOTE 2 The titles of the publications referred to in this
standard are listed on the inside back cover.
2 Definitions
For the purposes of this standard the definitions
given in BS 6100 apply, with particular reference to
Subsection 1.5.1.
NOTE Modular coordination terms occurring in the text may be
found in the index.
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 BS 6750:1986

3 Basic module 5 Submodular increments

The basic module shall be the fundamental unit of
size for the horizontal and vertical coordinating
dimensions of buildings, their spaces, components
and materials.
The size of the basic module shall be 100 mm.
Submodular increments shall be selected fractions
of the basic module. The submodular increment
shall be either 50 mm or 25 mm.
NOTE The first preference for submodular increments
is 50 mm and the second preference 25 mm.

The basic module shall be represented by the
letter M.
4 Multimodules
A multimodule shall be a selected whole multiple of
the basic module.
The sizes for multimodules shall
be 3 M, 6 M, 12 M, 15 M, 30 M and 60 M.
NOTE Multimodules are used as increments both for the
horizontal and vertical coordinating dimensions of buildings,
their spaces, components and materials (see Table 1).
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6 Modular sizes for coordinating
dimensions of spaces
Sizes for horizontal coordinating dimensions of
spaces shall be selected from Table 2, and for
vertical coordinating dimensions shall be selected
from Table 3.
7 Modular reference system
The reference system for the design of buildings, the
coordinated control of spaces in buildings, and the

basis for sizing and location of components, shall be

based on a three dimensional modular space grid
of 100 mm (see Figure 1).
NOTE The principles of the reference system may also be
applied to curvilinear and triangular structures.

Table 1 — Preferred modular sizes based upon the multimodules for horizontal and vertical
dimensions
Multi- Preferred modular sizes based in multiples of M
modules

3M 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48
6M 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78 84 90 96 120
12 M 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96 108 120a
15 M 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120a
30 M 30 60 90 120a
60 M 60
NOTE 1 The preferred modular sizes that are selected in preference to other sizes for horizontal and vertical coordinating
dimensions are primarily intended for the sizing of components, groups of components and spaces.
NOTE 2 The sizes derived from 3 M and 6 M have been restricted in the table to the limits shown.
NOTE 3 The 15 M, 30 M and 60 M series correspond to the series in a system of preferred numbers which contain the factor five.
These series can also be extended to use larger increments in the series such as 120 M or larger.
NOTE 4 In the selection of sizes from the table, preference should be given to the series of the largest multimodule compatible with
functional requirements and economic design.
a
See note 3.

2 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

Table 2 — Modular sizes for horizontal 9 Key reference planes

coordinating dimensions of spaces
Planes shall be established as key reference planes
Dimension/space Range of Multiples of for use horizontally and vertically and shall be
space size
spaced at multimodular intervals or at modular
mm intervals.
Zones for columns and 100 to 3 M or 1 M NOTE Planes should preferably be spaced at multimodular
intervals.
loadbearing walls 600
A key reference plane shall coincide with a plane of
Centres of columns and From 900 3 M or 1 M the basic module grid.
wall zones
A key reference plane shall be identified on
Spaces between column From 600 3 M or 1 M drawings by a small circle at the end of its reference
and wall zones line (see A.5).
Openings in walls (e.g. for From 600 3 M or 1 M Key reference planes shall be selected as datums for
windows and doorsets) the location of components, and for practical setting
NOTE The first preference for the multiple of size in each case out on site.
is 3 M. A key reference plane used as a datum for setting
out components shall be represented by a square set
8 Modular grids
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diagonally at the extremity of its line (see A.5.4).

Selections from the basic module spacegrid for
specific purposes shall coincide with the basic 10 Modular floor plane
module spacegrid or shall have a precise Vertical dimensions shall be taken from the key
relationship to it and with each other. reference plane.
NOTE Selections from the basic module spacegrid may be made NOTE The modular floor plane is the key reference plane.
for convenience of design and setting out. Examples are given
in Figure 2.
The modular floor plane shall be chosen from one of
the following three positions.
Table 3 — Modular sizes for vertical
a) the upper surface of the floor covering
coordinating dimensions of spaces
[see Figure 3 and Figure 4(a)]; or
Dimension/space Range of Multiples b) the upper surface of the sub-floor [see Figure 3
space of size
and Figure 4(b)]; or
mm
c) the upper surface of the structural floor
Floor to ceiling and floor up to 3 600 1M [see Figure 3 and Figure 4(c)].
to floor (and roof) from 3 600
to 4 800 3M
above 4 800 6 M
Zones for floors and roofs 100 to 600 1M
above 600 3M
Changes of floor and roof 300 to 2 400 3 M
levels
above 2 400 6 M
Opening in walls (e.g. for 300 to 3 000 3 M or
windows, including sills 1M
and/or sub-sills, and for
doorsets
NOTE 1 For application of 75 mm sizes for bricks
and 200 mm sizes for blocks, see A.2.3.3.
NOTE 2 Where the option of 3 M or 1 M is given, the first
preference for the multiple of size is 3 M.

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 BS 6750:1986
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Figure 1 — Basic module spacegrid Figure 2 — Examples of modular grids for

specific purposes directly related to the basic
modular grid

Figure 3 — Positions for the modular floor plane (key to Figure 4)

4 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

(a) Coinciding with upper surface of floor covering

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(b) Coinciding with upper surfaces of sub-floor

NOTE The non-loadbearing components can also be placed as

shown in (b)
(c) Coinciding with upper surface of structural floor level
Figure 4 — Position for the modular floor
plane

11 Storey heights and room heights

The vertical modular dimension shall be either the
storey height or the room height.
NOTE The storey height is preferred.
The floor zone height, storey height and room height
shall be modular (see Figure 5).

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 BS 6750:1986
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Figure 5 — Positions of the structure in relation to the modular storey height and floor plane

6 © BSI 07-1999

Appendix A Guidance
A.1 Introduction
The three basic tasks in the construction of a
building are first its design, secondly the selection or
designing of its components (which includes the
coordination of its dimensions), and thirdly the
assembly of the components and materials on site in
accordance with the design, for which practical
tolerances are required. This appendix outlines the
modular principles relating to all three tasks with
some examples of their application.
A.2 Location of components
A.2.1 Grids
The three dimensional basic module grid is the
fundamental reference to which all decisions on
sizes for spaces, components and materials are
precisely related. This grid is normally depicted on
paper by grid lines; the grid does not of course exist
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in practice in the finished building but it represents
an essential stable framework to help ensure that
all dimensional decisions are properly coordinated.
A.2.2 Horizontal dimensions
A.2.2.1 Components. Components may be related to
the modular grid by face discipline and/or by axial
discipline, both of which are used in modular design.
a) In face discipline the surfaces of the component
determine its location [see Figure 6(a)]. Face
discipline fulfills two functions: location of and
sizing of components.
b) In axial discipline the centre line of the
component determines its location
[see Figure 6(b)]. Axial discipline fulfills only one
function: location of the components. It does not
define the size of the component.
Figure 6 — Face and axial disciplines
© BSI 07-1999
BS 6750:1986
Each method is used for different types of
components even in the same building; there need
be no confusion provided that the relationship of
each component to the basic module grid is clearly
defined. Figure 7, Figure 8, Figure 9 and Figure 10
show some examples of detailed planning of
structural columns, external walls and internal
partitions. Figure 11, Figure 12 and Figure 13 show
some detailed examples of relationships between
finishes and partitions.
A.2.2.2 Finishes. The most convenient arrangement
for the precise relationship between wall surfaces
and the basic modular grid will depend upon the
components that need to be coordinated. These
components will commonly be such items as tiles
(wall, floor and ceiling) and fitted furniture. The
choice of arrangement should eliminate as far as
possible site cutting to fit and/or having to use
make-up pieces or special sizes. Different situations
lead to different choices and the principles are
illustrated by typical examples shown in Figure 11,
Figure 12 and Figure 13.
A.2.2.3 Non-modular zones. In some cases it may be
necessary to interrupt a modular grid with a
non-modular zone (for example, in order to
accommodate dividing elements). This zone has to
continue through the full cross section of a building
(see Figure 14).
A.2.3 Vertical dimensions
A.2.3.1 Reference planes for floors, ceilings and
roofs. The main decisions concerning vertical
dimensions will be the location of the reference
planes for floors, ceilings and roofs (see Figure 15).
For dimensions a, b and c, modular sizes should be
selected from Table 3.
Decisions will also be needed concerning any
changes of floor level (see Figure 16). For
dimensions x, y and z, modular sizes should be
selected from Table 3.
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 BS 6750:1986
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Figure 7 — Plans of external wall with 1 M columns

A.2.3.2 Detailed location of floors. Figure 17 shows
the detailed alternative relationships of the floor
plane to the floor construction.
The modular floor zone height deducted from the
modular storey height determines the room height
(see Figure 18). Figure 18(a), Figure 18(b),
Figure 18(c) and Figure 18(d) illustrate the
situation at different positions of the modular floor
plane.
Zones for floors and roofs contain the structure and
may also include finishes, services, suspended
ceiling, etc., and, where appropriate, allowances for
camber and deflection.
Provided that the use of coordinated components is
not inhibited, a component or group of components
(e.g. of a roof) may extend beyond the faces of the
zone, and trims and finishes may be placed outside
the zone.
A.2.3.3 Detailed location of windows. There are
several ways of assembling the sills with the
windows to ensure coordination with 75 mm
brickwork courses. Five possible arrangements are
shown in Figure 19.

8 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986
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Figure 8 — Plans of external wall with 2 M columns

Figure 9 — Plan of external wall with 3 M columns

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 BS 6750:1986
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Figure 10 — Plans of external walls with non-modular columns: effect on other components

NOTE All spaces have modular sizes.

Figure 11 — Examples of finished faces of partitions defined by modular planes

10 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

NOTE When partitions have modular blocks of work sizes

such that applied finishes cross the modular planes, some
make-ups at joints or specially sized components will generally
be needed.
Figure 12 — Example of finished faces
of partition not coinciding with modular
planes
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Figure 13 — Assembly of modular fitment in non-modular space

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 BS 6750:1986

Figure 14 — Non-modular zone

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NOTE This figure is identical to Figure 3.

Figure 17 — Positions for the modular floor
plane (Key to Figure 18)

Figure 15 — Key reference planes for floors,

ceilings and roofs

Figure 16 — Key dimensions at changes of

level

12 © BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986
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NOTE This figure is identical to Figure 5.

Figure 18 — Positions of the structure in relation to the modular storey height and floor plane

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 BS 6750:1986
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NOTE These drawings are diagrammatic only.

Figure 19 — Use of 75 mm brickwork courses with 100 mm reference system

14 © BSI 07-1999

A.3 Sizes of spaces and components
A.3.1 Relationship of components to spaces
It is desirable that the sizes of components and
materials that will be used, and hence the major
sizes of the building concerned, should be
determined at an early stage in the design of a
building.
Careful consideration should then be given to the
location of the different components in the reference
system and their relationship to one another.
A designer has to consider:
a) which components are in modular sizes and are
readily available from manufacturers;
b) which components will have to be
non-modular;
c) which components, if any, can be made to order
without significant cost penalty;
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d) how far any cutting can be accepted;
e) the order of assembly;
f) tolerances.
A.3.2 Sizes of modular components
A.3.2.1 General. A fundamental principle in the
definition of the size of a modular component is that
its modular (or nominal) size is the sum of the work
size plus one joint; i.e. the modular size always
includes the thickness of a joint (see Figure 20). The
length of a brick, for example, is nominally the
distance centre-to-centre of joints.
Figure 20 — Modular size = work size + joint
A.3.2.2 Multimodular sizes. Multimodular sizes
should be taken from Table 1. Figure 21 shows the
relative sizes of C, D, E and F and resultant modular
sizes A and B.
A.3.2.3 Combination of sizes. By judicious selection
of combinations of different modular sizes, any
modular size may be built up (see Figure 22).
The modular spaces may be occupied by assemblies
of components in various combinations or by a single
component (see Figure 22).
© BSI 07-1999
BS 6750:1986
For example two products made 3 M and 4 M long
can be used in combination to fill all spaces that are
multiples of M in length, from 6 M upwards.
PD 6446 describes how to choose product sizes that
permit useful combinations of size to be made.
A.3.2.4 Submodular increments. Submodular
increments (see clause 5) should be used when there
is a need for an increment smaller than the basic
module.
When a non-modular zone is required between two
modular grids, its size may be a submodular
increment.
Submodular increments may be used:
a) for determining the coordinating sizes of
building components smaller than 1 M
(e.g. certain types of ceramic tile) and of
adaptation pieces;
b) for determining the coordinating sizes of
building components larger than 1 M that need to
be sized in increments smaller than 1 M
(e.g. bricks, tiles, thickness of walls and floors,
and the sizing and location of pipes).
A.3.2.5 Non-modular sizes. Whenever possible, the
thickness of components should be modular or
submodular to simplify the formation of junctions.
However this may be precluded by other factors
such as ease of manufacture.
The three dimensional basic modular grid is the
ultimate reference and its use shows where and how
non-modular sizes have to be accommodated,
usually by the use of make-up pieces, specially sized
components or other devices as appropriate.
The onus of providing the make-up pieces is on the
supplier of the non-modular components.
The alternative situation is one when a designer has
to consider the possibility of specially detailing a
non-modular component for manufacture.
A.3.2.6 Determination of component coordinating
sizes by a manufacturer. The establishing of the
range of spaces to be filled should take into account:
a) clause 6;
b) the building type(s) in which the component
can be used.
The establishing of the upper and lower limits of
component size should take into account:
1) manufacturing process and production
methods;
2) stocking;
3) transport;
4) handling on site;
5) assembly;
6) relevant costs associated with 1) to 5) above.
15
 BS 6750:1986

Possible coordinating sizes should be examined and
a range selected. This range may, for example,
consist of one that permits the maximum variety of
possible assemblies with the smallest number of
components, or it may permit the use of a great
number of identical components together with one
or a few dissimilar components.
Coordinating sizes should be chosen taking into
account the factors in a) and b) above.
A.3.2.7 Summary of procedure for design of
buildings. A designer should:
a) design the assembly of components and the
construction on a modular basis;
b) obtain work size and variability data for the
components concerned;
c) obtain data on the characteristic accuracy2) of
the construction concerned, using e.g. BS 5606;
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d) reconcile the expected variability in
components and construction with the joint width
range of a suitable joint design (see “Graphical
aids for tolerances and fits. Handbook for
manufacturers, designers and builders”, Building
Research Establishment Report, HMSO 19743));
e) specify tolerance for critical sizes of the
construction, especially joint width;
f) determine appropriate action to deal with any
misfits that may still occur on site, either:
1) by rejecting components outside imposed
limits of size or tolerance; or
2) by designing a special joint for use
exclusively where limits of size of the standard
joint are unavoidably exceeded.
The building specification should take into account
the above factors.

Figure 21 — Plan of a building showing a use of multimodules to relate structure and cladding

2)
This is the accuracy of a particular process that results from building methods of working and gives rise to a characteristic
dimensional variability. It is expressed in terms of displacement of the mean (systematic deviation) and the standard deviation,
found by measurement of a representative sample and assumed to be characteristic of the whole.
3) Obtainable from HMSO, 49 High Holborn, London WC1.

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Figure 22 — Combination of 3 M and 4 M
components to fill every modular space
from 6 M upwards
A.4 Joints and fit
A.4.1 Joints
A modular component should normally be located in
its allotted modular space and should not encroach
into the space allocated for adjacent components;
this is called “keeping station”. The joint width
should be determined after account has been taken
of the jointing material, variability in the size of the
component, variability in its location, and the
normal movements of the building.
Modular coordination does not call for an unduly
high level of accuracy.
The selection or design of a given joint is dependent
on its location in the building, the ease with which
the joint may be made, its function, and the jointing
product to be used. The joint functions may be
established and derived from a list such as that
contained in ISO 3447 (see also BS 6093).
Every joint should be related to a joint reference
plane. The joint reference plane and the modular
plane normally coincide. There may, however, be
cases where the joint reference plane is not
coincident with the modular plane (see Figure 24).
4) In preparation.
© BSI 07-1999
BS 6750:1986
Figure 23 — Relationship of joint reference
planes to modular reference planes
A.4.2 Fit
Modular components have nominal sizes in
accordance with this standard but their work sizes
are usually smaller, to allow for fitting and jointing
on site (see Figure 24).
The sizing of a component and its joint is explained
in ISO 3443-1, ISO 3443-2 and 4)ISO 3443-3, and in
“Graphical aids for tolerances and fits. Handbook
for manufacturers, designers and builders”,
Building Research Establishment Report,
HMSO 1974.
When small additive components such as bricks or
blocks are being used, the assembled brickwork or
blockwork is frequently seen as the “unit” for
coordination, rather than individual bricks or
blocks. This acknowledges the capacity of the
jointing system to absorb a degree of variation, and
the characteristics of cutting of units associated
with craft technique.
A.5 Drawing conventions
A.5.1 General
This clause is concerned with drawing symbols
associated with modular coordination, as
recommended in BS 1192-1.
A.5.2 Dimension lines
BS 1192-1 illustrates the use of five distinct
methods of terminating dimension lines, including
open and closed arrows, oblique lines, dots and
circles.
In modular coordination, however, open arrows
represent coordinating sizes and closed arrows
represent work sizes (see Figure 25).
17
 BS 6750:1986
Licensed copy:Ellis and Moore , 12/11/2008, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI
Figure 24 — Relationship between the
modular size, and the work size and joint gap
width (showing that the joint gap width is
twice the joint margin)
Figure 25 — Open and closed arrows
A.5.3 Running dimensions and setting out
On setting out drawings, running dimensions
(see Figure 26) from a datum should be used as far
as possible. This enables a person setting out on
site, using a single run of steel tape, to mark out all
points in one straight line, and minimizes the
accumulation of inaccuracies.
Figure 26 — Running dimensions
A.5.4 Key reference planes
A key reference plane should be indicated by a circle
at the end of a line (reference line) shown in
Figure 27(a), except in cases where it is to represent
a site setting out datum, when it should be indicated
by a square set diagonally at the end of a line, as
shown in Figure 27(b).
18
Figure 27 — Reference lines and centre lines
A.5.5 Use of grids and squared paper
A.5.5.1 General. The use of grids and reference lines
simplifies the presentation of dimensional
information. A clear distinction should be made
between work sizes and coordinating sizes, and
tolerances should be specified whenever possible.
A.5.5.2 Drawing. Modular, planning and structural
grids should be used for the initial stages of the
design process.
On location drawings the location of the various
parts of the building should be shown in relation to
the selected grid.
On structural drawings the elements (columns,
beams, walls, etc.) should be shown in relation to the
structural grid and the basic module grid.
On services drawings the location of the plant and
equipment should be shown in relation to the basic
module grid.
On assembly drawings the location of the
components should be shown in relation to the basic
module grid.
On component detail drawings the necessary
dimensional data for manufacturing purposes
should be shown, giving work sizes and specifying
tolerance.
A.5.5.3 Use of modular symbol M. For convenience
in expressing modular sizes, the capital letter “M” is
used for the 100 mm basic module. When
multimodules are used, they should be indicated by
a prefix, e.g. 3 M, 6 M.
A.5.5.4 Squared paper. Cartridge and tracing paper
with printed square grids in various colours is
available in many scales and paper sizes
from A4 to A0.
A.5.6 Specification of sizes
A.5.6.1 General. It is important to note that it will
be necessary for designers to indicate, on drawings,
tolerances applicable to significant sizes.
© BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

The information needed to describe modular For all axes for which sizes are stated, it should be
components in manufacturer’s technical literature made clear, preferably by means of a drawing, to
is given in A.5.6.2. The information needed to what part of the component’s edge profiles the sizes
describe modular components in building designers’ relate.
specifications is given in A.5.6.3. The information is the minimum needed for the
Recommendations for the presentation of technical calculation of joint width range, and for an
information about products and services in the assessment of the probability of fit.
construction industry are given in BS 4940. A.5.6.3 Building designers’ specifications for
A.5.6.2 Manufacturer’s technical literature. components. A specification should identify which
Literature should identify which of the three dimensions of components are to be modular.
dimensional axes of a component are modular. The Designers should specify acceptable tolerances
information required to complete Table 4 should be (see Table 5).
provided in relation to all three axes, unless it is
certain that an axis will in no circumstances be
relevant to a building designer’s decisions on the
component’s dimensional suitability.
Table 4 — Presentation of sizes in manufacturers’ technical literature
Unit Width height Thickness
Licensed copy:Ellis and Moore , 12/11/2008, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Modular size n M or n × 100 mm

Non-modular size p mm
Work size q mm
Deviation of the mean (of a representative sample of + x mm
actual sizes) from work size, including sign or – y mm
Standard deviation (of a representative sample of n z mm
actual sizes), no sign
Inherent deviations due to changes in temperature a mm/m/°C
Inherent deviations due to changes in moisture content b mm/m/1 %

Table 5 — Presentation of sizes in building designers’ specifications

Unit Width height Thickness

Modular size n M or n × 100 m

Non-modular size p mm
Target size q mm
Limits of size (if required) Upper: x mm
Lower: y mm
Acceptable quality level AQL (if agreed between parties)
(see also BS 5532)

© BSI 07-1999 19
 BS 6750:1986
Index
Acceptable quality level Table 5
Assembly A.1, A.3.1
drawings A.5.5.2
Axial discipline A.2.2.1
Basic module 3, 4, 5
Basic module grid 8, 9, A.2.1, A.3.2.5
three dimensional A.2.1
Camber A.2.3.2
Centre line Figure 27
Characteristic accuracy A.3.2.7
Components
assembly of A.1
coordinating size A.3.2.6
drawings of A.5.5.2
horizontal dimensions A.2.2.1
Licensed copy:Ellis and Moore , 12/11/2008, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI
relationship of, to spaces A.3.1
coordination 0.2, 2, A.4.1
size of A.3, A.3.2.6
specifications for A.5.6.2
Coordinating dimensions
horizontal 3, 4, 6, A.2.2
vertical 3, 4, 6, 10, A.2.3.1
Coordinating size A.3.2.6, A.5.2
Deflection A.2.3.2
Design
general A.3.1
procedure for buildings A.3.2.7
Dimension lines A.5.2
Drawings A.5.5.2
conventions A.5
setting out A.5.3
Face discipline A.2.2.1
Face grid Figure 8
Finishes A.2.2.2
Fit A.4.2
Floor(s)
location of A.2.3.2
plane 10
reference planes A.2.3.1
zone height 11, A.2.3.2
Grids
basic module 8, 9, A.2.1
face Figure 8
general A.2.1, A.5.5
in drawings A.5.5.2
20
planning Figure 2
structural Figure 2
tartan Figure 2
Horizontal coordinating
dimensions 3, 4, 6, A.2.2
Inherent deviation Table 4
Joints
design A.4.1
general A.4
reference plane A.4.1
“keeping station” A.4.1
Key reference plane 9, 10, A.4.5
Make-up pieces A.3.2.5
Modular
components A.3.2, A.4
coordination 0.2, 2, A.4.1
floor plane 10, 11, Figure 17
floor zone height A.2.3.2
grids 7, 8
interval 9
planning grid Figure 6
reference system 7
room height Figure 5
sizes 6, Figure 19, Table 5
space Figure 7
space grid 7, A.2.2.1
storey height A.2.3.2, Figure 5,
Figure 18
structural grid Figure 7, Figure 10
symbol M 3, A.5.5.3
Module, basic 3, 4, 5
Multimodular
interval 9
sizes A.3.2.2
Multimodules 4
Non-modular
components A.3.1
floor height Figure 5
sizes A.3.2.5, Table 5
spaces Figure 13
zones A.2.2.3, A.3.2.4, Figure 14
Planes
general 9
key reference 9, 10, A.5.4
reference A.4.1
Planning grid Figure 2
modular Figure 6
Preferred modular size Table 1
Reference
line Figure 27
planes 9
for floors, ceilings, roofs A.2.3.1
for joints A.4.1
system 7
Room heights 11
Running dimensions A.5.3
Setting out A.5.3
Sizes
combination of A.3.2.3
coordinating A.3.2.6
modular A.3.2, Figure 19
multimodular A.3.2.2
non-modular A.3.2.5
relationship of components to
spaces A.3.1
specification of A.5.6
Sizing
of components 1, 7, A.2.2.1, A.3.2
Space grid 7,8
Specification
building A.3.2.7
Standard deviation A.3.2.7, Table 4
Storey heights 11
Structural grid Figure 2
Sub-modular increments 0.2.5, 5, A.3.2.4
Symbol M A.5.5.3
Target size Table 5
Tartan grid Figure 2
Tolerances A.3.1, A.3.2.7, A.5.5.1,
A.5.6.1, A.5.6.2, A.5.6.3
Vertical coordinating
dimensions 3, 6, 10, A.2.3.1
Wall surfaces A.2.2.2
Windows, location of A.2.3.3
Work size A.5.2, Figure 20
Zones 0.2.5, A.2.3.2, Table 2
non-modular A.2.2.3, A.3.2.4,
Figure 14
© BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

Publications referred to

BS 1192, Construction drawing practice.

BS 1192-1, Recommendations for general principles.
BS 4940, Recommendations for the presentation of technical information about products and services in the
construction industry.
BS 5532, Statistical terminology.
BS 5532-1, Glossary of terms relating to probability and general terms relating to statistics.
BS 5606, Code of practice for accuracy in building.
BS 6093, Code of practice for the design of joints and jointing in building construction.
BS 6100, Glossary of building and civil engineering terms.
BS 6100-1.5.1, Coordination of dimensions, tolerances and accuracy.
PD 6446, Recommendations for the coordination of dimensions in building. Combinations of sizes.
ISO 1006, Building construction — Modular coordination — Basic module5).
ISO 1040, Building construction — Modular coordination — Multimodules for horizontal coordinating
dimensions5).
ISO 1790, Modular coordination — Reference lines of horizontal controlling coordinating dimensions5).
ISO 1791, Building construction — Modular coordination — Vocabulary5).
Licensed copy:Ellis and Moore , 12/11/2008, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

ISO 1803, Tolerances for building — Vocabulary5).

ISO 2444, Joints in building — Vocabulary5).
ISO 2445, Joints in building — Fundamental principles for design5).
ISO 2776, Modular coordination — Coordinating sizes for doorsets — External and internal5).
ISO 2777, Modular coordination — Coordinating sizes for rigid flat sheet boards used in building5).
ISO 2848, Building construction — Modular coordination — Principles and rules5).
ISO 3443-1, Tolerances for building — Part 1: Basic principles for evaluation and specification.
ISO 3443-2, Tolerances for building — Part 2: Statistical basis for predicting fit between components having
a normal distribution of sizes.
ISO 3443-3, Tolerances for building — Part 3: Calculation of joint clearance and prediction of fit6).
ISO 3447, Joints in building — General check-list of joint functions.
ISO 6511, Building construction — Modular coordination — Modular floor plane for vertical dimensions5).
ISO 6512, Building construction — Modular coordination — Storey heights and room heights5).
ISO 6513, Building construction — Modular coordination — Series of preferred multi-modular sizes for
horizontal dimensions5).
ISO 6514, Building construction — Modular coordination — Sub-modular increments5).
CIB Report No. 36:1980, Some Notes on Geometry of Joints for Catalogue Building5).
CIB Report No. 68:1984, The Principles of Modular Coordination in Building5).
BRE Report: Graphical aids for tolerances and fits. Handbook for manufacturers, designers and builders:
HMSO 1974.

5)
Referred to in the foreword only.
6)
In preparation.

© BSI 07-1999
 BS 6750:1986

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