Current codes of practice do not exist in isolation, and rules that have been developed assume certain material properties and minimum workmanship in fabrication and erection. These are either in separate documents or different parts of the code. This paper explains the main requirements for materials and workmanship and how they can be related to design and construction in general. The use of very high strength steels is also considered and the measures that may be needed to allow their use with modern codes are also presented.