It seems that global warming is a reality. The real questions are: How fast is it happening? Is it a natural phenomenon, or does mankind cause it? Can we really do anything about it?
Seismic pods are known as lateral force bracing or horizontal restraint in code documents. The codes require lateral force bracing on suspended lay-in acoustical ceilings in areas prone to earthquakes.
There has always been controversy about cutting the lath behind single piece vertical control joints. There is a move to revisit this language within the ASTM committee. See what others are saying about this on the WC bulletin board www.i-boards.com/bnp/wc/.
The type of construction refers to the ability of the building to resist fire. Each building or structure is to be classified into one of the five possible construction classifications.