CSI MasterFormat & Specification Structure 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which MasterFormat division covers Conveying Equipment such as elevators and escalators?
- Division 11
- Division 12
- Division 14 (Correct answer)
- Division 21
Correct answer: Division 14
Division 14 is designated for Conveying Equipment including elevators, escalators, and lifts.
Question 2: In MasterFormat, the Specifications group spans which divisions?
- Divisions 00–16
- Divisions 01–49 (Correct answer)
- Divisions 02–50
- Divisions 01–19
Correct answer: Divisions 01–49
The Specifications group contains Divisions 01 through 49, covering all technical and administrative specification sections.
Question 3: A specification writer uses a 'performance specification' approach primarily to:
- List exact product model numbers for procurement
- Define required end results without prescribing methods or materials (Correct answer)
- Provide step-by-step installation instructions
- Reference only proprietary brand-name products
Correct answer: Define required end results without prescribing methods or materials
Performance specifications state required outcomes, leaving the contractor free to select methods and materials that achieve those results.
Question 4: Which MasterFormat section number format indicates a Level 4 (narrowscope) classification?
- 03 00 00
- 03 30 00
- 03 30 53 (Correct answer)
- 03 3
Correct answer: 03 30 53
An 8-digit number (XX XX XX.XX) or a 6-digit ending in non-zero sub-digits indicates a narrowscope Level 4 section.
Question 5: What does the 'Submittals' article in Part 1 of a specification section typically require?
- A list of all subcontractors and their insurance certificates
- Shop drawings, product data, and samples the contractor must submit for review (Correct answer)
- The contractor's proposed project schedule
- Warranty documents to be submitted at project closeout
Correct answer: Shop drawings, product data, and samples the contractor must submit for review
The Submittals article identifies shop drawings, product data, and samples required before or during construction.
Question 6: Division 09 in MasterFormat covers which construction work category?
- Wood, Plastics, and Composites
- Thermal and Moisture Protection
- Finishes (Correct answer)
- Openings
Correct answer: Finishes
Division 09 covers Finishes including drywall, flooring, painting, and ceiling systems.
Question 7: Which term describes a specification that names a specific product and manufacturer but allows equivalent substitutions?
- Open proprietary specification (Correct answer)
- Closed proprietary specification
- Reference standard specification
- Descriptive specification
Correct answer: Open proprietary specification
An open proprietary specification names a specific brand as the standard of quality but permits approved substitutions.
CSI MasterFormat & Specification Structure 3
Which MasterFormat division covers Conveying Equipment such as elevators and escalators?