This guidelines document contains a number of self-contained sections covering specific joint configurations and joint loading situations. Additionally, it contains a number of sections on ancillary subjects related to joint design.
In general, it is expected that the user of this document is experienced in structural design and is able to make use of the various sections as needed. However, to assist the first time user and to provide a 'check list' of essential features to be considered when designing joints, this section includes a procedure guiding the user to the relevant sections of this document.
The various steps are discussed in sections 4.2.1 to 4.2.4 and then summarised in a flow chart. Since the purpose of Section 4 of the Handbook is to direct the user through the document, in general, the logic criteria on which the decisions (accept/reject, yes/no) are made are not stated, rather these are included in each of the relevant sections (referenced as appropriate).