In the event of a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, which requirement shall govern?

When there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement in the context of the North Carolina Mechanical Code, the specific requirement takes precedence. This principle is fundamental in code compliance and is designed to ensure that specific conditions or unique characteristics of a situation are adequately addressed.

Specific requirements are formulated to apply to particular situations or materials, providing detailed guidelines that may be more stringent or nuanced than the broader general requirements. For instance, if a general requirement states a base standard for installation, a specific requirement might delve into unique aspects, such as safety measures for specific equipment or environmental conditions.

This hierarchy ensures clarity and safety, as relying solely on general requirements could lead to oversights in scenarios that demand more specialized attention, leading to potential hazards or non-compliance with safety regulations.