Environment, Energy and Transportation Program

"Often Overlooked, Building Codes Ensure Health and Safety"

An Article from June 1999 State Legislatures Magazine

To most residents, property owners and policymakers who might spare even a moment from their busy day to think about them, building codes look a lot like insurance--somewhat boring technical language regarding obscure matters better left to experts.

As with insurance, however, when tough times come--a natural disaster, a fire alarm that sets off a sprinkler system, skyrocketing heating and cooling bills--it becomes clear that building codes exist to give people a solid foundation under their feet, a roof over their heads, and a sense of safety at home or in the office.

State legislatures and local governments adopt building codes, in whole or in part, to regulate construction. Codes, which set minimum standards, ensure that structures are physically sound and healthy for their inhabitants.

Early in the 20^th century, three regional organizations--the Building Officials and Code Administrators International, the International Conference of Building Officials and the Southern Building Code Congress International--each developed a set of model codes specific to their particular sections of the United States. Although the codes were similar, regional differences hindered building professionals from working in other sections of the country.

An umbrella organization --the International Code Council (ICC)--was formed in 1994 to develop a single set of model codes, the International Building, Fire and Residential Codes or "international codes," for architects, manufacturers, building professionals and enforcement officials to be used to design, build and maintain public and private buildings.

The ICC believes a consistent set of building requirements will lead to higher quality construction. Uniform codes also will allow manufacturers to devote time and money to research and development instead of trying to comply with different standards across the country and will allow U.S. companies to compete nationally and internationally on construction projects.

The ICC wants to work with state legislatures and local governments to adopt the international codes because a single set of building codes will help states reduce the effect of natural disasters and conserve energy, improve access for the disabled, use new technology and enhance fire protection in new buildings. Local enforcement officials also benefit from learning one set of codes to determine whether they are being used appropriately to construct new buildings or remodel existing structures.

The ICC hosted public hearings on the final development of the International Building, Fire and Residential Codes in March and will vote on them at its annual conference this year.

For more information about the ICC and the development of the International Building Code, contact Soy L. Williams, AIA, at (703) 931-4533 or williams@intlcode.org

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