BS 1192 / PAS 1192 (Legacy BIM Standards)
UK BIM standards history: BS 1192, PAS 1192 parts 2-5, and their transition to ISO 19650 international framework.
Definition & Context
BS 1192:2007 and the PAS 1192 suite were the UK standards that pioneered structured BIM information management — defining the CDE, status/revision codes, and naming conventions. They established the collaborative process later internationalised as ISO 19650, which has now superseded them.
Understanding this legacy matters because much UK guidance, terminology, and existing project documentation still references BS/PAS 1192 concepts that map onto ISO 19650.
Why It Matters
The BS/PAS 1192 framework is the origin of modern BIM information management. Recognising how its concepts map to ISO 19650 helps interpret legacy documents and transition older projects.
Best Practices
- Map BS/PAS 1192 terms to their ISO 19650 equivalents on legacy projects.
- Adopt ISO 19650 for new work while honouring existing 1192 references.
- Preserve the CDE/status-code discipline the standards introduced.
- Update templates and BEPs to current ISO terminology.
Common Pitfalls
- Treating BS/PAS 1192 as current for new projects.
- Confusing 1192 and 19650 terminology in documentation.
- Losing the underlying CDE discipline during the transition.
- Assuming a rename is all that changed between the standards.
Core Commands & Practical System Operations
Executing BS 1192 / PAS 1192 (Legacy BIM Standards) effectively relies on specialized CAD/BIM command workflows and system variable configurations: BIM & CAD tools: WALL, FLOOR, ROOF, FAMILY, XREF, IFCEXPORT. Setup: Coordinate shared project base points, configure Level/Grid datum.
Standard Engineering Workflow for BS 1192 / PAS 1192 (Legacy BIM Standards)
1. Spatial Programming & Shared Georeferencing
Establish project base points, survey coordinates, building storeys, and column grid systems coordinated across architectural, structural, and MEP consultants.
2. LOD 200 - 300 Parametric Component Assembly
Model multi-layer architectural assemblies (curtain walls, structural framing, floor slabs, MEP risers) using intelligent parametric family components.
3. Interdisciplinary Clash Detection & Coordination
Federate discipline models in Navisworks or Solibri. Run automated hard/soft clash tests and track issues using BCF (BIM Collaboration Format) workflows.
4. 2D Construction Documentation & Quantity Schedules
Extract live plans, building sections, elevations, and automated component schedules (doors, windows, concrete volume) linked directly to the central model.
Common Failure Scenarios & Troubleshooting
| Failure / Geometric Issue | Root Cause & Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|
| Architectural and Structural models do not align when linked | Shared coordinates were not acquired. Ensure both teams use 'Acquire Coordinates' from a designated master site model. |
| Wall joints and multi-layer materials do not clean up cleanly | Layer core priorities are misconfigured. Ensure structural cores have Priority 1, substrate Priority 2, insulation Priority 3, and finishes Priority 4/5. |
| IFC export drops custom attributes and scheduling properties | Map property sets using custom IFC export translation tables before exporting to external coordination software. |
Industry Standards & Compliance Codes
- ISO 19650-1/-2 (Organization of information about construction works - BIM)
- buildingSMART openBIM & IFC 4x3
- AIA Document E202 (Building Information Modeling Protocol)
- National CAD Standard (NCS)