If there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement applies.

If there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement applies.

• A. specific
• B. least restrictive
• C. general
• D. most restrictive

Answer: (A)

When two provisions clash, the one written for the specific situation takes precedence. Specific requirements are created to address particular equipment, conditions, or scenarios in detail, so they override a general rule that would otherwise apply more broadly. This keeps the enforcement precise and aligned with safety and performance goals for that exact case. A general requirement is broad and may not fit the nuances of the particular situation, so applying the specific rule preserves the intended outcome. For example, a general instruction to seal all penetrations might be overridden by a specific requirement that certain penetrations in a rated wall must use a listed firestop assembly. That specific instruction dictates the exact method for that case, so it controls. The other ideas don’t determine which rule applies in a conflict: the notion of choosing least or most restrictive isn’t how code precedence is set, and relying on a general rule would weaken the specific provision’s intent.

When two provisions clash, the one written for the specific situation takes precedence. Specific requirements are created to address particular equipment, conditions, or scenarios in detail, so they override a general rule that would otherwise apply more broadly. This keeps the enforcement precise and aligned with safety and performance goals for that exact case. A general requirement is broad and may not fit the nuances of the particular situation, so applying the specific rule preserves the intended outcome.

For example, a general instruction to seal all penetrations might be overridden by a specific requirement that certain penetrations in a rated wall must use a listed firestop assembly. That specific instruction dictates the exact method for that case, so it controls.

The other ideas don’t determine which rule applies in a conflict: the notion of choosing least or most restrictive isn’t how code precedence is set, and relying on a general rule would weaken the specific provision’s intent.