Regulations which owners must meet in the construction, use, and maintenance of buildings. Building codes are promulgated and enforced by government agencies and are designed to ensure that buildings are durable and safe. The National Fire Protection Association (NHPA) issues, and periodically revises, a standard called the Life Safety Code which covers both construction and operation of buildings in such a manner as to maximize fire safety. While not strictly a building code, compliance with this code is required of hospitals wishing accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO).